viking yacht ceo

The Passing of a Legend

Viking Yachts Co-Founder Robert T. Healey Sr. (1929-2021)

(New Gretna, New Jersey, December 14, 2021) – Robert T. Healey Sr., the co-founder of the Viking Yacht Company who helped build the company into an industry leader and led the fight that repealed the Federal Luxury Tax on yachts in the early 1990s, passed away last week at the age of 92.

“My father was a true leader, and his vision will always guide us,” said his son, Robert Healey Jr. “He believed that the people around him – his family, friends and employees – lifted him to success and it was his obligation to leave the world a better place.”

Bob Healey Sr. and his brother Bill established Viking Yachts in 1964, and the company went on to become the largest manufacturer of sport fishing yachts in the world. But that success may have never been achieved without the determination and perseverance of Bob Healey. When a federal 10 percent luxury tax was imposed on yachts in 1991, thousands of people were laid off and hundreds of companies went out of business. Viking nearly went bankrupt, closed a plant in Florida and laid off all but 65 of its 1,500 boatbuilders. Bob was instrumental in organizing a national, grass-roots campaign to fight the tax. He took the industry lead, organizing busloads of out-of-work boatbuilders to converge on Capitol Hill for demonstrations, and setting fire to a boat on a barge in Narragansett Bay as a highly effective symbol of protest. The tax was repealed 20 months later in 1993.

“My uncle’s efforts to repeal the Federal Luxury Tax on yachts will never be forgotten,” said Bill’s son and Viking Yachts President and CEO Pat Healey. “He saved not only Viking but the entire marine industry. He was the catalyst and leader, and he wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. He was a brilliant lawyer and savvy businessman who was able to convince the politicians in Washington that this was very much a JOBS ISSUE. It was about good hardworking people losing their ability to provide for their families.

Bob’s 11th-hour lobbying efforts with Congressman Bill Hughes, who represented N.J.’s Second District, helped secure the votes needed to repeal the Luxury Tax in 1993. “It was a great victory for our family-owned and-operated boatbuilding company, the people of New Jersey and everyone in the marine industry,” said Pat. With Bill’s help, Bob privately funded the company out of his own savings, allowing Viking to tool up new models. The company came out of the gate running when the tax was finally repealed – and they never looked back.

Bob graduated from Camden Catholic High School, attended St. Joseph’s College in Philadelphia, graduating with a B.S. in Political Science, and earned a J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He practiced law in Camden County, N.J., for 25 years before retiring as a senior partner in the firm of Healey, Mueller and Tyler to devote himself full time to business interests.

In the 1950s, his brother Bill joined Bob in the real-estate development business. Among other projects, the two brothers acquired and developed the Bass River Marina in New Gretna, N.J. In 1964 a small, local builder of wooden boats, Peterson-Viking, was having financial trouble, and the brothers agreed to buy the company, changed the name to Viking Yachts, and relocated the business to their property adjoining the marina. The boatbuilding business soon occupied much of their time, so the brothers sold the marina and concentrated on building yachts. Bob was the company lawyer, moneyman and Chief Executive while his brother built the boats.

Committed to their mantra to build a better boat every day, Bill and Bob pushed Viking to the pinnacle of their industry with more than 5,000 boats delivered. They successfully steered the company through the ups and downs of economic cycles. “My father always said, ‘We’ve worked hard to get to the top of the mountain, we’re enjoying the view and we’re not going to give it up,’ ” remembers Bob Jr., currently the Co-Chairman of the Viking Group, which manages Viking Yachts, Viking Investments, Viking Associates, Viking Residential and Viking Developers.

As Viking’s Chairman of the Board for 57 years, Bob Healey Sr. diversified their financial interests into multifamily, industrial and commercial real estate, oil and gas exploration and development, and the financial management of the Healey family assets.

Together, Bill and Bob Healey achieved many milestones. In 1996, they founded the Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA), a non-profit organization formed in 1996 to promote sustainable fisheries and a healthy marine environment. Viking has contributed well over $1 million to the RFA. In that same year, the brothers established Viking Sport Cruisers, a company that has been highly successful distributing British-built, high end cruising yachts, built to Viking’s specifications, through its dealer network in North America. Bob, Bill and Pat received the Ernst & Young 1998 New Jersey Manufacturing Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Fifteen years later, the family would earn a second award from Ernst & Young.

Ironically, the Healeys bought back Bass River Marina in 2002 and reopened it as the Viking Yachting Center. They were inducted in 2003 into the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame for their outstanding contributions to the marine industry.

In honor of their service and commitment to the marine industry for more than a half a century, Bill and Bob were honored with the 2019 IBI-METSTRADE Boat Builder Lifetime Achievement Award, which was accepted by his son, Bob Jr.

Bob received many more awards for his achievements, including induction into the NJ Marine Trade Association Hall of Fame and the Rowan University Milestone Award. Bob also channeled his financial success into philanthropic interests, which included building schools in impoverished areas of Mexico, and providing housing, medical assistance, education, food and clean water to the people of war-torn Sierra Leone through the Healey International Relief Foundation. “My father was a good man with a deep faith and commitment to service,” said Bob Jr., who recently announced his candidacy for Congress in New Jersey’s 3rd District. “No person or mission was ever a lost cause to him. He saw the potential in everyone and believed that our true worth and value in life is in our contributions to others.”

A devout Catholic and product of Catholic school education, Bob brought his business skills to the challenges facing Catholic schools in the U.S. and formed the Healey Education Foundation and the Catholic Partnership Schools in Camden.

With his wife Ellen, Bob founded the Gleneayre Equestrian Program for at-risk youth. The program uses the powerful connection between horses and people to support learning, growth and healing. For his philanthropic efforts, Bob received the Lewis Katz Excellence in Education Award, the Beacon of Light Award, the Catholic Charities Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio Award for Leadership, an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Scranton University and the Shield of Loyola Award from St. Joseph’s University. Beloved husband of Ellen J. (nee Baldino), loving father to his seven children: Lizanne H. Jenkins (Thomas), Christine L. Healey, Caroline H. Adillon, L. Toland Sherriff (Robert), Robert T. Healey, Jr. (Bobbi), M. Alexis Iaccarino (Jonathan) and Leigh H. Hughes (Gabriel), and adored grandfather of his sixteen grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife, Louise L. (nee Lucas), and his two brothers, Patrick J. Healey and Edward J. Healey. He is survived by his brother William J. Healey, and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Thursday, December 16, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Healey Funeral Home, 9 White Horse Pike, Haddon Heights, NJ, and Friday at 9:00 am at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 642 Market St., Camden, NJ, immediately followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am. Masks required. In lieu of flowers, Bob requested donations to charities supported by The Robert T Healey Sr. Charitable Trust, which include the Healey International Relief Foundation (hirf.net), the Healey Education Foundation (healeyedfoundation.org), and the Gleneayre Equestrian Program (gepnj.org).

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Ebony and Discover Boating launch new “Coolest Black Family” series celebrating families who enjoy life on the water. EBONY and Discover Boating are bringing the stories of four black families to life. The “Coolest Black Family” series celebrates African American families enjoying life on the water. Each family shares their unique perspectives on travel and…

JBYS Earned Princess Exceptional Sales Achievements

Erik Krueger and Ron Silvia recently attended the Princess Yachts Dealer Meeting. While attending, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales received two Princess Exceptional Sales Achievements Awards. We are happy to present to you: #2 in the United States for Sales Award of Excellence awarded to Ron Silvia. #2 in the United States for Dealership Award of…

Team JBYS at Boyne Thunder

Boyne Thunder is an annual poker run, not a race, where the winner has the best hand. The run takes place on the shores of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan and is hosted by Boyne City Main Street. This one-of-a-kind event includes power boaters from around the country and supports local charities in the community. This year, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales was a sponsor and also ran in this unique boating event with our 2022 HCB 42 Lujo.

Mercury’s New Four Stroke Outboards

Mercury Marine introduces new 25 and 30hp four stroke outboards platform – the lightest and fastest 3-cylinder engines in class Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), today introduced its next generation of 25 and 30hp four stroke outboards – engineered from the ground up to be lighter, faster and easier to operate and…

Positive Trim, Tab Down, and Throttle

How to get the most from a Sailfish VDS Hull using three easy steps It is often said (mostly from competitive owners) that Sailfish Boats have a “wet ride”.  This is because of the operational differences required in the Variable Degree Stepped hull versus a traditional vee hull bottom. A traditional vee hull performs well in many conditions, slicing…

Sunseeker Wins Innovation of the Year Award

Sunseeker has won the ‘Innovation of the Year’ award at the BOAT International Design and Innovation Awards 2022 Sunseeker is delighted to announce it has won the ‘Innovation of the Year’ award at the BOAT International Design and Innovation Awards 2022 for its spectacular X-TEND™ system. The awards acknowledged everything from architecture, styling, innovation and…

Valhalla Joins Yamaha Plastics Recycling Program

Valhalla Boatworks steps on board with Yamaha to join their Rightwaters Plastics Recycling Program Valhalla Boatworks is the most recent addition to the list of boat manufacturers currently recycling plastic protective covers through the Yamaha Rightwaters plastics recycling program. To date, the program, which launched in August 2021, is responsible for returning 17,911 pounds of…

Join Our Service Department

Come Aboard and Join Our Crew! We are on course to grow our service department and looking for talented individuals. Become a part of our story and start your next adventure with us. Service Technician | Marblehead, OH Diesel Technician | St. Clair Shores, MI Gas/Outboard Technician | St. Clair Shores, MI, Holland, MI &…

E15 Gasoline

Boaters Beware: MBIA warns boaters not to fill up using E15 gasoline. E15 fuel, which contains 15 percent ethanol, will be sold in the summer months this year as a way to lower fuel prices. In the past E15 was not sold between June 1 through September 15 – the typical boating season for most…

Building the V-33

Valhalla Boatworks shines the spotlight on the V-33 Brothers Bill and Bob Healey founded Viking in 1964 with a commitment “to build a better boat every day.” It’s a philosophy they still use, along with their sister company Valhalla Boatworks, six decades later. This philosophy is one that shapes the Valhalla V-33. The building process…

The Sunseeker 100 Yacht Revealed

Sunseeker 100 Yacht Revealed We are incredibly proud to unveil the 100 Yacht here in Poole with the owner in attendance to see, for the first time, this spectacular new model. Our project team has worked incredibly hard to present the first build and prepare the vessel for initial sea trials and testing. The second…

Behind the Scenes with Garmin

By David Schmidt | May 11, 2022 | Yachting Magazine Take an inside look at how Garmin turns ideas into tech by Yachting Magazine Google Maps directs me onto Garmin Way, and I absorb the scale of what I’m seeing. A seven- story tower punctuates an otherwise two-story landscape ahead. Maintained grounds, ornamental trees and…

Volvo Penta’s Corrosion Protection

Volvo Penta’s diesel engines were the first choice for numerous award-winning vessels. This achievement was recognized at the Work Boat World Awards where Volvo Penta won Best Small Diesel Engine Supplier 2020.

Center Console: All Purpose Boat

A Center Console is the Do-All Boat, and Great for the Money Versatility makes the center console a great option for any water adventure. This explains why the center console is among the most popular in the Sailfish lineup. Sailfish’s center consoles maintain a layout that allows boaters to do whatever, whenever. This layout accommodates…

Sailfish is Smooth and Steady

The technology behind the Variable Degree Stepped Hull System sets Sailfish apart from the rest The technology behind its smooth ride is one thing that sets Sailfish apart. No matter the water conditions, Sailfish’s unique Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) hull system delivers the smoothest experience and ride stability in its class. This VDS hull technology…

Williams and Sunseeker History

Williams Jet Tenders and Sunseeker International’s Bryan Jones discuss the shared history and partnership. Williams Jet Tenders took some time recently to sit down with Sunseeker International’s Marketing Manager, Bryan Jones, to find out about the shared history Williams and Sunseeker have. WJT: Sunseeker have been working with Williams for over 10 years now, can you tell us…

MCMF & MBIA Awarded State Grant

The Michigan Clean Marina Foundation and the Michigan Boating Industries Association have been awarded $302,700 in grant funding to increase awareness with boaters to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species The MCMF/MBIA funding project was announced March 1, during National Invasive Species Awareness Week (AIS Awareness Week). “With this funding we’re able to utilize…

Absolute Welcomes New Navetta 75

Absolute Introduces the Navetta 75, The Largest Boat in the Shipyard Twenty years after it was founded, the Absolute shipyard celebrates its success by introducing Navetta 75, the new fleet flagship. The largest boat in the shipyard, “The Absolute Sphere” is designed to expand the Navetta range. It is no coincidence that Absolute chose the…

Avator Electric Outboard Concept

Mercury announces the exciting new vision with its Avator electric outboard concept. This new development represents Mercury’s next step in marine innovation and advanced technology. The formal release of electric outboard products can be expected later in 2022 and 2023. Avator creates a new boating experience for Mercury’s global customers through the electrification of outboard motors….

Mercury Has New Joystick System

Mercury introduces Joystick Piloting for Outboards with Bow Thruster for Precision Control of Large Outboard Vessels Mercury Marine has introduced Joystick Piloting for Outboards (JPO) with Bow Thruster. This is the industry’s first outboard joystick system with full and seamless integration of a bow thruster. This new system provides the ability to maneuver larger vessels…

Valhalla Announces New V-55

Valhalla Boatworks announces the all-new V-55 center console – an evolution of Viking excellence. Twelve months after rocking the center console world with the introduction of the revolutionary V-46 center console, Valhalla Boatworks has stolen the spotlight again with the announcement of the all-new V-55. The latest flagship of the V Series is poised to…

Princess Y72 and F45 Best Flybridge

Princess Yachts Y72 and F45 Win The Motorboat and Yachting Best Flybridge Awards The Princess Y72 and Princess F45 were both awarded at the Motor Boat & Yachting (MBY) 2022 Motorboat Awards. The Princess Y72 was awarded winner for best Flybridge over 60ft. Judges took notice of the glamour, polish, and attention-to-detail. Such qualities are…

Absolute 48 Coupe Receives Award

The 48 Coupe is named the European Powerboat of the year 2022 in the “Up to 20M” Category Absolute Yachts is having a wonderful start to the year, and the Absolute 48 Coupe receives award. The Absolute 48 Coupé was awarded the European Powerboat of 2022 in the “Up to 20m” category. The winners were…

The Sunseeker Magazine

Sunseeker Encourages Boaters to Seek More with the Sunseeker magazine and Full Range Brochure. The official Sunseeker magazine provides readers with a true sense of what it means to buy into the Sunseeker brand. The magazine contains stunning photography as well as the latest industry news. Readers will also gain insight to Sunseekers newest models…

Importance of Hull Design

Boating Magazine highlights the importance of hull design in regards to Sailfish Boat’s “Variable Degree Stepped” hull design “The Sailfish 276 DC features the variable-deadrise concept, which provides a good balance between speed and stability.” In the world of boats, the major thing to consider is the importance of hull design and shape. Boats have…

Princess Announces All-New V50

Impeccable Handling and Advanced Technology Aboard the All-New Princess V50 – Efficient Volvo Penta IPS650 engines provide top speeds in excess of 30 knots – Sleek styling with an extended canopy to provide more usable outdoor space – Hand-crafted using premium materials of the highest quality, the V50 is stylish without compromising practicality or usability…

Viking Yachts Co-Founder Robert T. Healey Sr. (1929-2021) (New Gretna, New Jersey, December 14, 2021) – Robert T. Healey Sr., the co-founder of the Viking Yacht Company who helped build the company into an industry leader and led the fight that repealed the Federal Luxury Tax on yachts in the early 1990s, passed away last…

Tour the Sunseeker 88 Yacht

The Ultimate Yachting Experience The stunning all-new 88 Yacht showcases Sunseeker’s outstanding design and technology. This excellence, fueled by a passion to create the ultimate yachting experience for all on-board. The 88 Yacht’s exterior profile has black feature accents, angular hull glazing and glazed bulwark panels. These features make it one of the yard’s most…

Winterize Your Boat’s Electronics

Things to do to prepare your boat for winter. Sadly for many of us, the time has come. Before you put your boat up for the year, though, there are a few things you’ll want to do to winterize and prepare your onboard marine electronics for the upcoming inactivity. 1. Check cables/wiring. Check any exposed…

Sunseeker Wins Design Award

Sunseeker is delighted to announce its most recent win at this year’s Metstrade Boat Builder Awards Judges presented the “Innovative On-Board Design Solution” award to Sunseeker. This took place at a ceremonial event on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. The now multi-award-winning Sunseeker 65 Sport Yacht was recognized for its exceptional SkyHelm feature. The 65 Sport…

Seakeeper Maintenance Plan

Seakeeper Maintenance Seakeepers are designed to require minimal maintenance. Most of the critical components are contained in a sealed enclosure. This design protects these elements from moisture that could be corrosive. However, The closed-loop hydraulic circuit will need to be inspected and serviced periodically. The cooling circuit also requires occasional examination and maintenance. Follow the…

Volvo Penta Assisted Docking

Volvo Penta is a leader in technology that makes boating easier, safer, and more accessible than ever before. This commitment has been recognized at the 2021 METSTRADE Show where the Assisted Docking System received multiple DAME Design Awards. On November 16th the DAME Design Awards announced Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking System was a joint winner of…

USCG Documentation VS State Titling

The Difference between Federal-Titling with the USCG and State-Titling Explained After purchasing a new boat, comes the question. Does the boat need to be federally-documented with the USCG or state-titled? What is the difference? There is often confusion surrounding these questions. Each form of titling has a specific set of criteria the vessel must meet…

New Frontier of Absolute Yachts

For twenty years, the shipyard in Piacenza, Northern Italy, has been a reference point for international boating. Here are the strengths of its luxury yachts. Absolute Yachts is an Italian company that, since 2002, has been building luxury motor yachts between 47 to 73 feet. Its three ranges | Navetta, Flybridge, and Coupé – offer a high level of design…

“Blue mind” is a term that describes the way water can positively affect our minds and emotions. When we spend time near water, whether it’s at the beach, a lake, or a pool, we often feel calm and relaxed. It’s like water has a special power to make us feel good. Imagine the feeling of…

Mercury Marine Gives Confidence

To some, boating is a performance-driven feast for the senses: the push of the throttle, the blast of the ocean air, the roar of the outboard engine(s) as the boat reaches plane. For others, it’s the overall stillness of the experience – the quiet connection with the boat and with those inside it – that…

Absolute’s Models Triumph at Cannes

Absolute’s Innovation and Engineering Efforts Were Rewarded in Cannes With the Debut of the 2022 Season. Absolute entered the French Boat Show with its full Navetta range, two boats from the FLY range, and two 2022 new models: 48 Coupe – the first versatile and sporty creation in the brand-new Coupe line 60 Fly –…

Garmin Wins Manufacturer of Year

Garmin also recognized as a Most Innovative Marine Company in annual Soundings Trade Only awards Garmin® International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ:GRMN), the world’s largest and most innovative marine electronics manufacturer, today announced that it was named Manufacturer of the Year for the seventh consecutive year by members of the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) at its…

Absolute Yachts Presents the 56 Fly

LET CHARM AND PERSONALITY INSPIRE YOUR NEXT ROUTE  The result of engineering innovation, Italian design and a passion for details, the latest project by the Piacenza-based shipyard is called 56 FLY – The Absolute Charisma. Featuring a strong, confident personality, 56 FLY was created to be noticed and to fascinate boat owners with a proven mix of comfort and…

SEABOB Technology

Quality right down to the last detail. The SEABOB-Jet is the absolute paragon of cutting-edge technology. In order for the vehicle to live up to this claim, the drive unit was made using premium carbon elements, established ceramic coatings and precious metals resistant to salt water. Meticulously hand-crafted, this water sports vehicle is made of…

Yamaha Unveils MyYamahaOutboards

New App and Web Portal Improve Overall Customer Experiences, Enhance Outboard Values This summer, Yamaha Marine introduces MyYamahaOutboards, a new mobile app and web portal that revolutionizes the ownership experience and helps enhance customer satisfaction of Yamaha outboards. MyYamahaOutboards puts essential product and dealer information at owners’ fingertips, including a complete maintenance history for each…

Absolute Launches New Coupe Model

Absolute Yachts throws down the gauntlet to the luxury yacht industry with the new Coupé range: sporty, devoted to comfort, and highly versatile. The Coupé range has been completely re-invented by the Italian shipyard: the revolutionary ideas that have made Absolute’s models famous are back on board, enhanced by intriguing new features. For instance, they have…

Williams launches 10,000th Tender!

UK manufacturer Williams Jet Tenders leads the waves with the launch of its 10,000th tender. Williams Jet Tenders is the world’s leading jet tender specialist hits a milestone this week – Williams launches 10,000th tender. Williams Jet Tenders is a British success story that began, as all good stories do, in a shed. Two brothers…

How to Read Nautical Charts

Even if you’re new to boating, it’s unlikely that you’re completely new to GPS systems. Maybe you have a car GPS to get you from point A to point B; maybe you rely on a smartphone; or maybe you’ve gotten very, very skilled at navigating Google Earth to creep on your favorite Zillow listings. (No…

Absolute 1st With Assisted Docking

Featuring IPS engines on all boats, Absolute Yachts is the first shipyard to provide the new Volvo Penta Assisted Docking system on its entire range. Absolute and its engine supplier Volvo Penta build on their long-standing partnership to offer boat owners around the world the Assisted Docking system, the latest innovation launched by the famous Swedish manufacturer in 2021. By…

Sailfish’s Stalwart Stringer System Promise

The backbone of Sailfish Boats premium product. Boat manufacturers can talk all day about fancy fishing features or a boat’s rugged abilities. But ultimately the integrity of any boat comes down to its hull. And the integrity of any hull lies in its robust stringer system. Sailfish doesn’t cut corners or allow room for error…

Sailfish Adds New Touch

The classic walkaround design is made to fit a broad range of functionality. There are many unique advantages to this style boat, which hosts everything from family days on the lake to long fishing excursions. Sailfish’s 220 WAC model is no exception, and tells its own unique story of fun and adventure. The 220 WAC…

Center Console or Dual Console

Learn the subtle differences between the layouts to decide if you want a center console or dual console. Center Console or Dual Console? Both models are experiencing a surge in overall popularity – especially during the pandemic. With so many options available to anglers and families, it is important to understand the subtle differences between…

Volvo Assisted Docking Recognized

Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking technology has been honored among the top products of the year by Boating Industry Magazine The top 50 boating products appeared in the May issue of the monthly boating trade magazine. They were chosen by the editors from hundreds of nominations, based on their impact on the industry, innovation and how…

Mercury SmartCraft Connect

Mercury Marine®, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), today launched SmartCraft Connect, which allows boaters to use Garmin and Raymarine multi-function displays (MFDs) to access detailed information about the status and operation of their SmartCraft-compatible marine engines. For years, Mercury has made advanced engine monitoring and alerts available to boaters through its powerful VesselView technology….

Power of Sailfish Hull Technology

If you want to know only one thing that that distinguishes a Sailfish boat, it is the technology behind its smooth ride – specifically the Sailfish hull technology. Sailfish’s unique Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) hull system is designed to deliver the smoothest experience and overall best ride stability in its class, in all water conditions. Sailfish’s VDS hull…

Launching the New Absolute 60 Fly

The Evolution of The Absolute Shipyard Launching the NEW 60 Fly and Coupe’ Range for Generation 2022 Absolute Yachts approaches the start of boating season creating high expectations for the Generation 2022 new models. A very optimistic opening awaits their shipyard thanks to the launch of a brand new range, as well as two exciting…

Yamaha Recognize for Excellence

Yamaha’s U.S. Marine Business Unit accepted the 2021 National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA®) CSI Award for excellence in customer satisfaction in five categories including Outboard Engine, WaveRunner® personal watercraft and Jet Boat as well as for Yamaha’s boat companies Skeeter® and G3® Boats. Yamaha has received this recognition in the Outboard Engine category every year…

The Valhalla V46 Just Got Better

Now Offering Mercury’s Game-Changing Verado Outboards The world’s best big center console just got better. Valhalla Boatworks (VBW) is proud to announce that it will offer Mercury’s new game-changing 7.6-liter V12 600-hp Verado outboards on the Valhalla 46, the newly introduced flagship of the V Series. “We’re extremely excited,” said Viking President and CEO Pat…

Sunseeker’s 65 SY | Volvo Penta IPS

When Sunseeker International revealed its radically new 65 Sport Yacht design in late 2020, it was almost certainly the sculptured exterior styling, innovative helm concept, and stylish interior appointments that initially caught the eye. But behind that sleek exterior is another impressive development that is set to have an equally impressive impact on the cruising…

New V12 600hp Verado by Mercury

Mercury Marine®, a division of Brunswick Corporation, today introduced the new 7.6‑liter V12 600hp Verado® outboard engine. With this launch, Mercury continues to transform the high-horsepower outboard market, providing its most powerful and capable outboard, which includes several industry‑first features for a wide variety of applications. “With boats continuing to grow bigger and performance expectations…

Volvo Penta | Work Boat World Award

Updated V6 Offshore Outboards

Yamaha Marine kicks off 2021 with brand new product offerings including updated V6 Offshore outboards that combine new benefits with a reliable performance legacy. The new F250 and F300 V6 Offshore Digital Electronic Control (DEC) models boast built-in Digital Electric Steering (DES), Thrust Enhancing Reverse Exhaust (TERE) and other XTO Offshore®-inspired features. “The new, updated…

JBYS Adds Sailfish to Brand Lineup

Sailfish Boats has seen an immediate impact and growth spurt since the addition of Rob Parmentier as President and CEO. In recent months, Sailfish has added five new dealers to its list of partners, and Jefferson Beach Yachts Sales (JBYS) is excited to be among them. Erik Krueger, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales Vice President, said,…

Absolute 64 Navetta is the “Best for Travel”

Best of Boats Awards 2020 Absolute 64 Navetta is the “Best for Travel” On Thursday, November 19th, the Best Of Boats Award 2020 award ceremony took place in Berlin. This is the only award in the motorboating world that aims at identifying the best yachts based on five categories: 1. Best for Beginners 2. Best for Family…

New Sunseeker 74 and 74 SY XPS

Sunseeker International has revealed its Predator 74 and 74 Sport Yacht will now be available as an XPS Limited Edition. Both yachts will feature dramatic new styling and numerous luxurious appointments which are only available together, as part of an optional package. The XPS package on offer is available with the largest 1900 MAN engine…

Volvo Penta Hits 30,000 Installations

Volvo Penta Inboard Performance System (IPS) units deliver a unique user experience Up to 30% reduced fuel consumption and 30% less CO2 emissions compared to traditional inboard shafts. The company has now supplied 30,000 Volvo Penta IPS solutions across the marine sectors. Environmental care has been a core value at Volvo Penta since 1972 and…

The New Viking 54 Convertible

Viking reaffirms its domination of the mid-size convertible with the new Viking 54 Convertible Following their mantra to build a better boat every day, Viking has consistently brought new and exciting yachts to you for 56 years. With multiple generations in various size ranges, their commitment to their customers and level of expertise shine through…

Best in Innovation 2020 Navetta 64

Sometimes we wonder if the real success is the one that makes you clap or the one that makes your heart beat. When talked about passion, well, the ambition could be to get both results. Thus, after having successfully overcame the initial confrontation with dealers, media and the first shipowners on board, the new Navetta…

Absolute 50 Fly- The Achievement

Success, Beyond The Most Ambitious Goals With an excellent balance between size and functionality, as well as a large availability of room devised to foster comfort, Absolute 50 Fly – The Absolute Achievement – captures the essence of our ambition: offering amazing size, maximum comfort, and absolute livability. This dynamic and innovative yacht is decidedly…

Sunseeker Superyachts Explained

The largest and most opulent in the range, Sunseeker Superyachts represent the finest in Sunseeker style, design, practicality and ingenuity. Superyacht Division The Superyacht Division houses a distinctive range of yachts from 30M-50M. The division allows clients to grow through the range of superyachts with greater flexibility in terms of design and layouts. From floor…

V Series Expansion: Valhalla Boatworks V-46

The V Series Expands with the Valhalla V-46 Building on the overwhelming success of the V Series high-performance luxury center consoles, the Viking Yacht Company has begun the next chapter in the evolution of the Valhalla Boatworks – the V-46. Viking announced the creation of Valhalla Boatworks (VBW) in February 2019, and introduced the first…

Mercury Awarded | Energy Efficiency

Initiatives reflect company’s belief that industry can champion significant and sustainable improvements to protect the environment Mercury Marine today was named a winner of the 2020 Energy Efficiency Excellence Award by Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy program. The award, timed to coincide with Earth Day, honors Wisconsin businesses, organizations and communities that make outstanding efforts toward…

Seakeeper 1 Launches

For the first time, stabilization available for boats as small as 23′ CALIFORNIA, Md. (February 12, 2020) – Seakeeper, the leader in marine stabilization, launched its newest, smallest, and most radically different model yet, the Seakeeper 1, today at a media event before the Miami International Boat Show.  The Seakeeper 1 is designed to eliminate…

Sunseeker 76 Yacht Wins Award

Sunseeker’s 76 Yacht was announced as the winner of the ‘Flybridges over 60ft’ award at the Motor Boat Awards. Held at a glittering awards ceremony in Dusseldorf and attended by global boat brands and industry VIPs, the award was a welcome win for one of Sunseeker’s most successful models in its range. The 76 Yacht…

Exceptional Sales Achievement with Princess Yachts

Team JBYS Recognized in England Team JBYS was recognized in England today, at the Princess dealer meeting, for our Exceptional Sales Achievement with Princess Yachts America as the #2 Dealership of Excellence in the United States! Incredible work on behalf of every crew member at Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales whose genuine standards of excellence across all…

Seakeeper Serious About Small Boats

Multiple efforts confirm commitment to making stabilization a reality for all boaters With the goal to stabilize every boat on the water, Seakeeper, the leader in marine stabilization, is taking large strides to make that goal a reality. There is no one-size-fits-all guide to stabilization, but one thing is certain – the smaller the boat,…

100th Sunseeker 52 Manhattan

100TH SUNSEEKER MANHATTAN 52 UNDERLINES ITS PLACE IN HISTORY Fastest selling model in the company’s history reaches a key milestone As of July 2019 JBYS has sold six 52 Manhattans! Sunseeker International is celebrating the production of 100 Manhattan 52s today, a very important milestone for the fastest selling model in the company’s history. The talented…

Princess Best Flybridge Up to 60′

Princess Wins Best Flybridge up to 60′ at 2019 Motor Boat Awards Princess is delighted to announce that the Princess F55 has won the 2019 Motor Boat Award for Best Flybridge up to 60ft. The awards are hosted by Motor Boat & Yachting magazine and are judged on the boat’s design, ability and value for money in…

Valhalla Pricing Announced

Valhalla Boatworks announces V-Series Pricing This new breed of center consoles sets evolutionary standards in performance, engineering, quality and fishing capabilities. Built by the Viking Yacht Company, Valhalla Boatworks was developed to fulfill a strong desire for high-end center console which is equally adept and equipped for coastal or offshore missions. The V series consists…

Braithwaite Brothers Receive Award

The pioneering brothers behind Sunseeker International were awarded the coveted Outstanding Achievement award at the 2018 Luxury Briefing Awards, held at The Savoy Hotel in London on Monday evening. In recognition of a combined career spanning more than 100 years, Robert and John Braithwaite’s remarkable story is one of innovation, daring, perseverance and the unwavering desire to create the finest luxury performance motor yachts in…

HCB Signs JBYS

HCB SIGNS JEFFERSON BEACH YACHT SALES AS LATEST ANNEX. HCB Center Console Yachts™ continued to enjoy traction in its new factory partner business model with the signing of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales (JBYS). HCB creates custom, offshore center console yachts ranging from 39 to 53 feet, with a new 65-foot model debuting at the Fort…

Absolute 58 Fly Best in its Class

The “Asia Boating Awards” had already awarded Absolute in 2017, attributing to the Absolute 50 Fly, novelty of the nautical season 2016-2017, the “Best Flybridge Yacht up to 55 feet” award. A few days ago, another novelty of the Italian shipyard stepped to the podium: the Absolute 58 Fly has been proclaimed at the Singapore…

Exceptional Sales Achievement

Ron Silvia Congratulations to our very own Ron Silvia for earning a Sales Award of Excellence for Exceptional Sales Achievement with Princess Yachts! Ron is responsible for the presence of numerous Princess Yachts cruising up and down the Chicago River and throughout the Great Lakes. 

Williams Takes Order 100th MiniJet

WILLIAMS TAKES ORDER FOR 100TH MINIJET SINCE SEPTEMBER LAUNCH Williams Jet Tenders, the world’s leading jet tender manufacturer, recently took its 100th order for the new Minijet 280 following its world debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September. The Minijet 280 is the first in a brand new range for Williams, offering customers a smaller, lighter…

JBYS Earns Top Dealer for Absolute

Top Dealer in North America – 2016 Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales was awarded the 2016 Top Dealer in North America for Absolute Yachts at the recent Yachts Miami Beach Boat Show. As presented by the Absolute Ownership, JBYS won “for the passion, energy and enthusiasm deployed while introducing the Absolute brand into their region, where…

JBYS 5th Earns Distributor Award

Praise from Sunseeker International Once again, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales has earned a Distributor of the Year Award from Sunseeker International! This is our 5th experience receiving such an award, and this time our award was given in recognition of annual SALES GROWTH. It was with great pleasure and pride that Greg Krueger, JBYS President, and…

Greg Inducted | MBIA Hall of Fame

JBYS President, Greg Krueger, was inducted into the Michigan Boating Industry Association (MBIA) Hall of Fame on December 1, 2011. “Greg has made great contributions to the MBIA and our industry during his time on the Board and throughout his life,” said MBIA President, John Ropp. “We owe a great deal of gratitude to Greg for…

JBYS Earns Sunseeker Award

Delivering the BEST IN THE WORLD Customer Service Once again, Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales has earned a Sunseeker Distributor of the Year Award from Sunseeker International in recognition of our achievements to deliver BEST IN THE WORLD customer service! It was with great pleasure and pride that JBYS president, Greg Krueger, accepted the 2011 award from Robert Braithwaite,…

JBYS Achieves Sunseeker Service Award

Distributor of the Year – Bronze Award We are please to report receipt of a Distributor of the Year Bronze Award in recognition of our achievements to deliver BEST IN THE WORLD customer service from Sunseeker Yachts. Presented to us on our very own piece of Royal Doulton, this award is a true honor – and…

THE DUFFY POWER RUDDER™

Our patented Duffy Power Rudder is yet another example of what sets Duffy apart from any other electric boat company out there. The Duffy Power Rudder was meticulously designed and built over a period of nearly 10 years using the knowledge we had accumulated from 30 years of prior experience building electric boats. The result is something that we are…

Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales Brand Family

Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales represents an impressive lineup of exceptional boat brands, offering a diverse range to meet every boating enthusiast’s needs. In addition to their premier boat offerings, JBYS also represents several brands of water accessories, ensuring a complete and enjoyable boating experience. With over fifty years of industry expertise, JBYS is committed to…

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The Passing of a Legend – Robert T. Healey Sr.

Viking yachts co-founder robert t. healey sr. (1929-2021), maritimo reveals new flagship m75, grand opening for town of palm beach marina.

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The passing of a legend - Viking Yachts Co-Founder Robert T. Healey Sr. (1929-2021)

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Robert T. Healey Sr., co-founder of Viking Yachts who fought federal boat tax, dead at 92

BASS RIVER - Robert T. Healey Sr., who with his brother turned a struggling New Jersey boat maker into the world’s largest manufacturer of sportfishing yachts, has died at the age of 92, announced his company, Viking Yachts.

“My father was a true leader, and his vision will always guide us,” said his son, Robert Healey Jr., in the statement. “He believed that the people around him — his family, friends and employees — lifted him to success and it was his obligation to leave the world a better place.”

Born on St. Patrick’s Day 1929 in Atlantic City, Robert Healey Sr. died one week ago on Dec. 9.

Healey Sr. and his brother Bill established Viking Yachts in 1964, which would eventually become known as the “Mercedes-Benz” of the boat world.

By 2001, the company was manufacturing 107 boats per year, each at an average price of $1.5 million and the company was employing 1,300 people at its 550,000-square-foot production site in the marshland around the Mullica River, between Ocean and Atlantic counties.

In the statement from Viking Yachts on Wednesday, the company noted that Healey had led the fight to repeal a federal luxury tax on yachts in the early 1990s.

In January 1991, the 10-percent luxury tax was instituted on purchases of boats that sold for more than $100,000. The levy came at the height of the recession in the early 1990s, with lawmakers calculating at the time that the amount would be easily absorbed by anyone with the resources to buy a yacht.

However, the tax backfired and ended up costing 3,200 New Jersey residents their jobs in the boat-building industry. At the time, New Jersey ranked fifth among states in boat sales and was home to several companies that built large, luxury vessels that sold for $400,000 and more.

Viking nearly went bankrupt, closed a plant in Florida and laid off all but 65 of its 1,500 boatbuilders, the company said.

Healey organized a national, grassroots campaign to fight the tax. He lobbied congressmen and organized bus trips for out-of-work boatbuilders to Capitol Hill to convince lawmakers to repeal the tax. He even had a boat set ablaze in Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island, in an effort to attract public attention to the issue, the statement said. The tax was repealed in 1993.

“My uncle’s efforts to repeal the federal luxury tax on yachts will never be forgotten,” said Bill Healey’s son, Pat Healey, president and chief executive officer of Viking Yachts.

“He saved not only Viking but the entire marine industry,” Pat Healey continued in the statement. “He was the catalyst and leader, and he wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer. He was a brilliant lawyer and savvy businessman who was able to convince the politicians in Washington that this was very much a jobs issue. It was about good hardworking people losing their ability to provide for their families.”

After he graduated from Camden Catholic High School, Robert Healey Sr. attended St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, graduating with an undergraduate degree in political science. He went onto earn a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Later, Healey practiced law in Camden County for 25 years. He retired as a senior partner in the firm of Healey, Mueller and Tyler, so he would be free to pursue his business interests, according to Viking Yachts. 

In the 1950s, he and his brother went into the real estate market and developed the Bass River Marina in the New Gretna section of Bass River. More than 57 years ago, Peterson-Viking — a small, local builder of wooden boats — was having financial trouble. The brothers bought the company, changed the name to Viking Yachts and relocated the business to additional property they owned adjacent to the marina. The venture soon occupied most of their time. Robert was the company lawyer, moneyman and chief executive. Bill built the boats, all according to the company.

According to his obituary , Healey is survived by his wife, Ellen; seven children, Lizanne H. Jenkins, Christine L. Healey, Caroline H. Adillon, L. Toland Sherriff, Robert T. Healey Jr., M. Alexis Iaccarino and Leigh H. Hughes; sixteen grandchildren and his brother William J. Healey.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Louise; and two brothers, Patrick and Edward. 

Erik Larsen: 732-682-9359 or [email protected]

Robert Healey Sr. of Viking Yachts Passes at Age 92

Jan 20, 2022 | Magazine , News | 0 comments

The final month of 2021 brought sad news to the marine industry with the death of Robert T. Healey Sr., a.k.a. Bob Healey Sr., at the age of 92. Chairman of the Board of Viking for an incredible 57 years, Healey was also a lawyer, real estate developer and savvy businessman. Bob helped his brother Bill get involved in real estate development in the 1950s which led to the acquisition of several waterfront properties and the birth of Viking Yachts in 1964.

While brother Bill and eventually Bill’s son Patrick lived and breathed boatbuilding on the production floor, Bob Sr. served as chief executive, the corporate lawyer, and the financial chief for Viking Yachts. Healey is succeeded by his son, Bob Healey, Jr., cochairman of the Viking Group, which manages the company’s various holdings and properties.

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