THE eThekwini Municipality has taken a major step towards positioning Durban as Africa’s leading superyacht destination following a successful international engagement in Italy last week.

The City’s delegation attended the Yachting Aftersales and Refit Experience (YARE) conference in Viareggio, March 8 to 16, where they secured a landmark partnership with global industry leader Navigo.

During the engagement with industry leaders, the delegation handed over of a Letter of Intent (LOI), between eThekwini Municipality and Navigo signed by City Manager Musa Mbhele, signalling Durban’s intent to develop world-class superyacht infrastructure.

Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said the milestone marked a turning point for the City’s economic ambitions as the agreement is expected to generate more than R1.9b in private-sector investment.

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“This is a significant milestone in our campaign to position Durban as Africa’s premier superyacht destination,” said Sisilana. “Through this partnership, Navigo has confirmed its commitment to mobilise significant private-sector investment towards Durban’s superyacht infrastructure and refit capabilities.”

The delegation, led by Inner City Regeneration Programme Manager Lungelo Buthelezi, engaged global shipyards, captains and manufacturers, receiving positive feedback about Durban’s potential.

It also confirmed that Durban is now set to make history as the first African city to host the YARE Symposium in November, with over 200 international industry players expected to attend.

“This partnership signals Durban’s readiness and unwavering commitment to establishing a world-class superyacht ecosystem,” said Sisilana. “The anticipated economic impact of this partnership is significant. Projections indicate that more than 2500 direct jobs could be created by 2030 across marine engineering, refit services, advanced manufacturing, and tourism.”

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The City’s proposed superyacht precinct will be located on a 24-hectare site within the Port of Durban. In terms of the TNPA Ship Repair Strategy, this site is specifically reserved for the refit market, which includes superyacht servicing and maintenance, a key selling point for international investors.

Navigo president Katia Balducci said they are confident in Durban’s capabilities and in the deal that will also be a catalyst to establishing Africa’s first Professionalised Superyacht Academy in partnership with DUT.

“This partnership represents the beginning of a historic chapter for Africa’s participation in the global superyacht industry. Durban has the vision, the infrastructure, and the commitment to succeed,” said Balducci.

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