The Capital Hotel Group Debuts Gqeberha’s First Aparthotel to Drive Coastal Tourism Recovery

The Capital Hotel Group launches a 145-room aparthotel in Gqeberha. Discover how this 2026 development is boosting Eastern Cape tourism and job creation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 4:03 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Daily Investor

A New Benchmark for Eastern Cape Hospitality

The official opening of The Capital Boardwalk on Friday signifies a major transformation for the hospitality sector in Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth. This development marks the city’s first dedicated aparthotel, a hybrid model that integrates traditional hotel luxury with the functional benefits of long-term residential living. According to Marc Wachsberger, CEO of The Capital Hotels, Apartments & Resorts, the property is designed to serve as a defining landmark for the region, adding new energy to the coastal city while supporting a diverse range of business and leisure travelers.

Strategic Expansion into Coastal Hubs

The launch of the 145-unit property represents a significant milestone in the national expansion strategy of The Capital Hotel Group. Positioned within the established Boardwalk precinct, the hotel offers direct proximity to Nelson Mandela Bay’s beachfront and essential industrial zones. Industry analysts suggest that the group’s entry into this market highlights the rising potential of Gqeberha as a primary coastal hub, capable of attracting sustained investment despite broader economic shifts in the South African tourism landscape.

Tailored Solutions for Corporate Residency

The aparthotel model specifically targets the needs of corporate contractors, expatriates, and long-stay business travelers who require more than a standard hotel room. Each of the serviced apartments is equipped with full kitchen facilities, laundry services, and flexible housekeeping options, allowing guests to maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle for weeks or months. This focus on "living better" while traveling is intended to capture a growing segment of the market that prioritizes convenience and domestic comfort during extended professional assignments in the Eastern Cape.