The V&A Waterfront has announced a R230-million investment in a purpose-built superyacht marina, a development expected to strengthen the city’s growing marine economy while positioning Cape Town as a year-round hub for global yachting and maritime services.
V&A Waterfront Superyacht Marina/Supplied
Known as the Quay 7 Superyacht Marina, the new basin will be located within one of the Southern Hemisphere’s oldest working harbours, directly in front of the upcoming Cape Town EDITION hotel. The site offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the City Bowl and Table Mountain, combining luxury tourism appeal with practical working-harbour infrastructure.
Scheduled for completion in October 2026, the facility aims to move Cape Town beyond its reputation as a scenic stopover and establish it as a fully serviced maritime destination. According to the V&A Waterfront, superyacht visits have steadily increased since 2009, with 35 vessels recorded during the 2024/25 season alone. Many remain in the city for extended periods because of reliable marine services, adventure cruising routes and established technical expertise.
The marina has been designed for dual use. During peak season, eight berths accommodating vessels between 40 and 90 metres will host visiting superyachts. In quieter months, the space will support commissioning and export staging for Cape Town’s internationally competitive catamaran manufacturing sector, including builders such as Robertson and Caine, Two Oceans Marine and Balance Catamarans.
Industry leaders say the project represents more than leisure infrastructure. Increased demand is expected across marine engineering, refuelling, provisioning, logistics and crew services, alongside new permanent employment opportunities. A dedicated concierge facility will support visiting crews and vessels throughout the year.
The marina forms part of a broader V&A Waterfront expansion that includes new hospitality developments and upgraded marine infrastructure. Sustainability remains central to the project, with plans to pursue Gold Anchor accreditation, an internationally recognised benchmark for marina excellence, alongside environmental management systems aligned with the precinct’s wider sustainability goals.
With more than 30,000 vessels passing the Cape annually, the development signals growing confidence in Cape Town’s role within the global ocean economy. By combining high-value tourism with industrial capability, the Quay 7 Superyacht Marina aims to anchor long-term economic growth while reinforcing the city’s status on the international maritime circuit.
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