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Passing Of A Legend: Viking’s Robert Healey, Sr.

Robert Healey, Sr.

Robert Healey, Sr. – who cofounded the Viking Yacht Company with his brother Bill back in 1964 -passed away on December 9, 2021.  He was 92.

A graduate of Camden Catholic High School, St. Joseph’s University, and the University of Pennsylvania, where he obtained his law degree, Bob would spend 25 years dedicated to the field of law before he and Bill turned Viking into the #1 sportfishing yacht manufacturer in the world.

With Bill handling the boat manufacturing end, brother Bob steadfastly kept up on the business side of the equation.  As Viking’s Chairman of the Board for 57 years, Healey, Sr. diversified their financial interests into multi-family, industrial and commercial real estate, oil and gas exploration and development.  He would go on to receive numerous awards for his many achievements, including induction into the NJ Marine Trades Association Hall of Fame, as well as the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame.

When the Healey brothers bought Peterson-Viking Builders, it was a small, struggling New Jersey builder of 37-foot, wooden sportfishing boats.  The first all-fiberglass Viking, the 33′ Convertible, wouldn’t roll off the New Gretna, NJ line until 1971.  But on their nearly six-decade journey towards becoming number one in the sportfishing game, Healey, Sr. 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.

Together with his wife Ellen, he also founded the Gleneayre Equestrian Program, which uses the unique connection between horses and people to support learning, growth, and healing to help support at-risk youth.

viking yacht ceo

“My father was a true leader, and his vision will always guide us,” said his son, Robert Healey, Jr. who added “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.”

father-son

No Is Not An Answer

I was executive editor of The Fisherman Magazine in late 2008 when Mr. Healey called me on the phone to pitch me an idea. “Mr. Healey” is the only way I felt able to address him then, as I do today. It’s probably important to understand that my honor and respect for the Healey family came at an early age. My grandfather, James Becotte of Ocean City, had run boats for Post Marine in Mays Landing, and he would occasionally take me for tours of some of the local manufacturing facilities; our visit to the Viking facility in the 1970s somehow stuck out vividly in my memory.

So while working out of our Shirley, NY headquarters for just 2 short years, I was a bit surprised when Mr. Healey asked me over the phone to take the reins as managing director of the Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA). I politely declined, to which he responded rather emphatically that I should personally visit him and his son Bob, Jr. at the Healey’s horse farm. To paraphrase, “Nobody says no to me on the phone, you come out and here and tell me in person.” As I was beginning to learn, Mr. Healey was not the type of man to take “no” or “not” as an answer.

In the 1950s, the Healey brothers acquired and developed the Bass River Marina in New Gretna before buying Peterson-Viking in the 1960s. After renaming the company to Viking Yachts, the Healey’s moved the boat manufacturing facility to their property adjoining the marina. But as business began to occupy so much of their time, they sold off the marina to focus attention on Viking; Bob, Sr. the moneyman and Chief Executive, while Bill focused on the essentials of boat building.

Viking Yachts would go on to become what they are today, but not without one incredibly large obstacle that threatened to destroy everything. In November 1991, President George H.W. Bush signed off on a luxury tax aimed at reducing the federal budget deficit (despite that “read my lips” moment on the campaign trail). The 10% luxury tax was levied on watches, jewelry, expensive furs, private jets, expensive cars, and yes, boats and yachts too. While some Americans might see a tax on the rich as a worthy investment in the middle class, it would turn out to have many different results. As noted in a 1993 Baltimore Sun article, the Luxury Tax would cost billions of dollars in lost boat sales and tens of thousands of lost jobs between 1990 and 1993. Many boat manufacturers went belly up during this period, and Viking itself was forced to lay off all but 65 of its 1,500 boatbuilders.

As I said, Mr. Healey never responded well to no’s and not’s, and he was instrumental in spearheading a national, grassroots campaign to fight the tax. Mr. Healey took the industry lead, organized busloads of out-of-work boatbuilders to converge on Capitol Hill for demonstrations, and set fire to a boat on a barge in Narragansett Bay as a highly effective symbol of protest. He would continue to work with Rep. William Hughes of New Jersey’s second congressional district to help secure votes in Congress, and by August of 1993, President Bill Clinton officially signed the repeal of the “luxury tax” while citing an overwhelming loss of American jobs.

“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.”

With his brother’s help, Mr. Healey privately funded the company out of his own savings, allowing Viking to tool up new models during the early 90s downturn. While sales from 1991 until 1993 were dismal to say the least, the Healey’s decision to remain open allowed the company to tool up for new models, which helped the company leapfrog competition in the mid-1990s. Once the Luxury Tax was finally repealed, Viking Yachts fired out of the gate, taking over the position of #1 sportfishing yacht manufacturer.

“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,” his nephew Pat said, adding “It was a great victory for our family-owned-and-operated boatbuilding company, the people of New Jersey and everyone in the marine industry.”

Thus it was sometime around Christmas of 2008 – not long after the passing of my grandmother Becotte – when I sat down personally with Mr. Healey and his son Bob, Jr. at their Gleneayre farm to discuss the RFA position offered by phone; the one which I’d already turned down. After trying the “no” route several more times during our meeting, I eventually agreed to give notice to The Fisherman in early January; I would spend the next 6 years at RFA working not far from the Viking facility in New Gretna.

generation

The Politics Of Fishing

In the years that immediately followed the luxury tax repeal, Mr. Healey began to focus on the political solutions to problems plaguing the recreational fishing and boating industry. In 1996, he and former New Jersey charter boat captain Jimmy Donofrio helped establish RFA as a 501(C)(4) nonprofit political action organization to promote sustainable fisheries and a healthy marine environment. Over the past 25 years, Viking has contributed well over $1 million to the RFA efforts.

“I got to spend a lot of time with Bob driving to DC meeting with House and Senate members, and I was always amazed by his instinctive ability to analyze a situation and read people,” Donofrio said of Mr. Healey. “He was a brilliant leader and a mentor for me. He always told me just keep moving forward and get it done. I am happy he had a full life and I was glad to have some part in it over 25 years. Love you Bob,” Donofrio added.

Of Donofrio, Mr. Healey leaned towards me across his desk during that sit-down at the family farm in 2008, and in deadpan expression said “You see, Jimmy Donofrio is like nuclear energy, control it and you can power the world.” As he spoke, he brought his hands together with fingers entwined, before suddenly breaking his hands apart and saying “but if you can’t keep it under control, you could destroy the entire planet.”

It was a strange way to hammer the deal into place. Those who know Donofrio will no doubt appreciate the analogy. But those two men have very much been like father and son, loyal as the day is long, and patriots to the cause. The fact that Mr. Healey passed away just weeks before Donofrio’s official retirement from the RFA was perhaps more poignant than coincidental; both representing devastating losses to the fishing community as a whole.

Some cynics I’ve met over the years could never be convinced that Bob and Bill Healey cared much for the little guy, blindly viewing them simply as wealthy boatbuilders who only cared about their big boat customers. But as Mr. Healey would often explain to me, hardworking folks who make a modest living today strive for success in the future; a young plumber’s apprentice for example, working a 60-hour workweek so that he can climb aboard a skiff for a weekend of fluking, might someday step away from his own plumbing and supply company for a few hours each week to tool around in his 55′ Viking convertible called Pipe Dreams .

So as much as the Healey family has remained committed to a personal mantra “to build a better boat every day,” they also dedicated their personal and professional lives to looking out for everyone else in the recreational fishing and boating community, navigating some often treacherous political waters. As the saying goes, “a rising tide floats all boats.”

“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,'” said Bob Jr. who is now co-chairman of the Viking Group which manages Viking Yachts, Viking Investments, Viking Associates, Viking Residential and Viking Developers. In fact, in following with his father’s belief in finding political solutions to solve problems, the younger Healey recently tossed his hat into the political ring in announcing his bid for Congress in 2022 running against Rep. Andy Kim in New Jersey’s third congressional district.

“The reason those boats are of such good quality is because we’ve got a 57-year history of having really great people that work alongside us,” Healey, Jr. was recently quoted as saying at NewJerseyGlobe.com , adding “We’re talking about 57 years of people who have been able to buy a house based on working for our company.”

“Some of them are immigrants. Some of them were born and raised here. Some of their families go back 300 years in places like Ocean County and Atlantic County… they’re all really good people,” Healey, Jr. told NewJerseyGlobe.com .

The Healeys repurchased Bass River Marina again in 2002, reopening it as the Viking Yachting Center. Along with the Viking Yacht Company, the marina complex also includes Breeze’s Bar and Grill on the Bass River along with a fuel dock. In 2016, Viking also purchased the Ocean Yacht facility in Egg Harbor City – roughly 9 miles from the New Gretna facility – where Viking Mullica builds the new line of Valhalla Boatworks center consoles from 33 to 46 feet.

All together both South Jersey facilities employ roughly 1,100 good people.

Perrine, Leek, Cavileer, Hankins, Henriques, Hunt, Post, Olsen, Peterson; the list of family names in New Jersey boatbuilding history is a long one, dating back to colonial times. And while Viking may be the brand best known around the globe today, it’s the Healey name that will carry along with the other legends of New Jersey’s rich seafaring lineage.

Fair winds and following seas Mr. Healey.

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Boating Industry

Industry mourns loss of Viking Yachts founder Robert Healey, Sr.

viking yacht ceo

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% 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 University 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 multi-family, 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 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.

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Bluewater Yacht Sales

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

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

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

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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]

The Passing of a Legend

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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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Volvo Penta Assisted Docking

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

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

“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 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

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

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

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 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!

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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

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

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 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

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

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

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

Volvo Penta | Work Boat World Award

Updated V6 Offshore Outboards

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

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”

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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 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 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 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

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 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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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™

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…

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Industry Unites to Oppose Rushed 10-Knot Restrictions

Citing flaws in the sweeping changes to the right whale vessel strike reduction rule, viking and marine industry leaders demand that noaa stop the proposal’s advancement and seek more reasonable alternatives..

(Fort Lauderdale, Florida, October 28, 2022)—The boating and fishing community stood united today at a special press conference hosted by the Viking Yacht Company at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, urging the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to stop moving forward with proposed 10-knot speed restrictions that would devastate the industry, crushing its economic and social benefits.

“The marine industry is completely sensitive to the status and outlook of the North Atlantic right whale,” Viking President and CEO Pat Healey told the crowd, packed with media members and concerned leaders from boat, engine and marine businesses. “But this is a deeply flawed rule – rushed and put into play with zero participation or input from the boating and fishing community. Right whale vessel strikes have just not been an issue for our industry. This is a classic example of government overreach.”

The National Marine Fisheries Service, an agency within NOAA, is proposing amendments to the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction Rule to reduce the likelihood of vessel strikes. The changes will make this mandate the most consequential maritime regulation that the recreational boating and fishing sector has ever faced. The federal rule would broaden the current 10-knot (11.5 mph) speed limit to include boats 35 feet and larger (down from 65 feet); expand the zones from discrete areas to virtually the entire East Coast (from Massachusetts to Florida) as far out as 100 miles; and extend the go-slow mandate for up to seven months a year.

Flaws and Impact The facts fail to support NOAA’s sweeping changes. Since 1998 – 24 years – there have been 24 known right whale vessel strikes across 10 states. Of those, eight were attributed to boats from 35 to 65 feet. The odds of a vessel from 35 to 65 feet striking a right whale are less than one in a million, according to a study commissioned by the American Sportfishing Association.

“In our 58-year history, with more than 5,000 boats delivered, we have never had a report of our boats having an encounter with a right whale,” said Healey. “And we would know because it would cause significant damage that would be repairable only by us.”

The restrictions would result in the cancellation of thousands of boating and fishing trips; cause economic disruption to all maritime activities along the eastern seaboard; lead to the decreased use and sale of boats—all resulting in potential massive job losses throughout the industry.

“NOAA’s proposed rule severely underestimates the financial impacts on the recreational fishing and boating industry, the largest contributing sector to America’s $689 billion outdoor recreation economy,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, President of the National Marine Manufacturers Association. “NOAA must pause implementation of its rule and incorporate key stakeholder feedback and data. Without serious revisions, the economic health of coastal communities, small marine business – and those businesses who rely on a robust fishing and boating economy – as well as thousands of jobs along the East Coast are at risk.”

“This misguided expansion would make offshore fishing trips on vessels 35 to 65 feet nearly impossible on most of the Atlantic Coast,” said Jeff Angers, President of the Center for Sportfishing Policy. “The rule includes flawed risk models and vastly overestimates the probability of a recreational vessel interacting with a right whale. These speed restrictions are based, in part, on the assumption of a 10-meter surface strike zone, but most recreational boats in this size range have minimal intrusion beyond the upper 3 feet (1 meter) of the water column.”

To convince NOAA to put the brakes on, it’s imperative that the entire marine industry – boat owners, anglers, manufacturers, dealers and vendors – Submit comments to NOAA by clicking here . The deadline for comments is Monday, October 31, at 11:59 p.m.

“We need everyone to do two things,” said Healey. “Submit comments, explaining how the rule would impact their boating and fishing activities or business, and contact your member of Congress. ”

Safety Hazards The speaker group also included BoatU.S. Foundation President Chris Edmonston and International Game Fish Association President Jason Schratwieser. Additional supporting attendee groups included the Recreational Fishing Alliance, The Billfish Foundation and the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. Scout Boats, Tiara Yachts, Regulator Marine, Sportsman Boats, Westport Yachts, the Brunswick Boat Group as well as engine manufacturers such as Mercury Marine, Caterpillar, MTU, MAN and Cummins were also in attendance at a conference that drew an estimated 50 media members.

Edmonston focused on safety, saying the rule fails to accurately consider how recreational boats operate. “The 10-knot restriction hinders a boat’s maneuverability, the operator’s visibility and negates the ability to outrun inclement weather,” said Edmonston. “We’re concerned about how this proposed rule will be enforced and are very much opposed to the use of AIS [automatic identification system], which is designed to be a safety device – not a tool of regulation enforcement.”

Alternative Solutions NOAA could have avoided the rule’s excessive and unnecessary negative impacts on the boating and fishing community if it had involved the industry in its development.

Restricting marine activity is not an effective or reasonable option. There needs to be a fundamental shift to focus on tracking individual right whales so they can be avoided. It’s the only practicable management approach for this population. “The boating and fishing community is committed to working side by side with NOAA to find science-based solutions to meet right whale conservation goals without devastating America’s time-honored tradition: recreational fishing,” said Schratwieser. “The proposed rule challenges these principles and the science-based approach we would expect to see from NOAA.”

Alternatives must be explored, including real-time monitoring of right whales through tagging, acoustic detection, pushing location information to operators, development of avoidance technology, outreach/education and increasing compliance with existing regulations. 

“We must continue to oppose NOAA’s 10-knot restriction,” said Healey. “As with any governmental regulation, strong grass-roots efforts lead to change. We’ve proven this by fighting and overturning the Luxury Tax of the early 1990s. This issue needs that same level of commitment from all of us.”

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Viking Yacht CEO and Leadership

CEO & Executives

Viking Yacht CEO and Executives

Rate Viking Yacht's leadership communication with employees.

Chairman/CEO

Robert Healey's LinkedIn

Robert Healey is a Founder at Healey International Relief Foundation, Chairman at Healey International Relief Foundation, and Chairman/CEO at Viking Yacht Company and is based in 573 Eayrestown Road, Lumberton, New Jersey. He attended University of Pennsylvania Law School until 1954, Camden Catholic High School until 1947, and Saint Joseph’s University until 1951.

Viking Yacht Jobs

Viking yacht executives faqs, who is the ceo of viking yacht, related company executives.

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Viking Yacht Highest Paying Jobs

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  • Computer Aided Design Designer
  • Numerical Control Programmer
  • Bass River, NJ
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Zippia gives an in-depth look into the details of Viking Yacht, including salaries, political affiliations, employee data, and more, in order to inform job seekers about Viking Yacht. The employee data is based on information from people who have self-reported their past or current employments at Viking Yacht. The data on this page is also based on data sources collected from public and open data sources on the Internet and other locations, as well as proprietary data we licensed from other companies. Sources of data may include, but are not limited to, the BLS, company filings, estimates based on those filings, H1B filings, and other public and private datasets. While we have made attempts to ensure that the information displayed are correct, Zippia is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of this information. None of the information on this page has been provided or approved by Viking Yacht. The data presented on this page does not represent the view of Viking Yacht and its employees or that of Zippia.

Viking Yacht may also be known as or be related to Viking Yacht, Viking Yacht Co. and Viking Yacht Company.

Get to Know Capt. Ryan Higgins

  • By Sam White
  • Updated: August 4, 2020

With a storied 16-year career to date with Viking Yacht Company—most of that time spent at the helm of the company’s various demonstrator vessels—Capt. Ryan Higgins is one of ­offshore sport fishing’s most recognizable personalities. And while he’s still the manager of the company’s demo program, he’s moved off the bridge to assume the role of southeastern sales manager for Viking. A passion for high-performance center-consoles also led to his involvement with Valhalla Boatworks, which was established by Viking to build a line of premium-quality ­outboard-powered boats, currently ranging from 33 to 41 feet in length; Higgins is general ­manager of Valhalla Boat Sales South, the dealer for southeastern Florida. With many hats to wear and an ever-growing list of responsibilities, he’s definitely up for the challenge.

M: What’s it like fishing with Viking president and CEO Pat Healey?

RH: Pat is great to fish with. He could have had the worst day at work, but he doesn’t bring it with him on the water—he’s all about having a good time and staying positive. His passions in life are his family, fishing and boatbuilding, and that’s it, so it was a lot of fun running the boat for him. We have one big thing in common: We were out there to win, every day. Pat is always on board for doing what it takes to be in the right spot.

M: What is your all-time favorite fishing destination?

RH: Venezuela, hands down. That was the start of my professional billfishing career. In 2000, Steve Potts, the owner of Scout Boats, hired me to run his 72-foot Mikelson, Caliente . That was my first captain’s job, and I’d had only four years’ experience at the time, but we put together a schedule, and he sent me down there with the boat. I was 21 years old, and it was an incredible opportunity. I was thrilled to be fishing alongside guys like Dave Noling, Jimmy Grant, Lee Alonso and Mike Merritt, among many others; the camaraderie was amazing. There were no secrets—everyone called in their bites, so you knew what was going on all day long. And the fishing speaks for itself. Most places, you go there mostly for one species, but in Venezuela, you could have a grand slam in the spread at the same time, and have a legitimate chance to catch a grand slam or a super slam pretty much on any given day. And the people were so friendly. That’s the hardest part about not going back—all the great friendships we made over the years.

Watch: Check out this video of the Viking 37 Billfish .

M: What are some of the things you learned as a demo captain that translated into changes in the production of a certain model?

RH: Whether it’s a new engine package or a system like the Octoplex [power distribution system], we always put it in a demo first before it’s available for the customers’ boats. And we try to run Hull No. 1 of each new model as a demo, which gives all of us a chance to spend time on the boat and actually live on it. We keep a notebook on board where the crew can make notes on things they’d like to change, anything from more storage in the crew quarters to another 6 inches at the foot of the bed in the master stateroom. We noticed that some of the other builders were starting to push the envelope on ­performance while we were fishing tournaments on the demos, so that led us to making all kinds of small tweaks to our 70-footer: less hull resistance, lightening the build, using honeycombed interior panels. It wasn’t one little thing but more like a dozen things; from the first 70 demo to the last, we reduced the weight by nearly 10,000 pounds and improved performance by around 3 knots to reach speeds of over 45 knots. It was a benchmark design because the changes and refinements we made were incorporated into future models.

M: What are some of your most memorable tournament wins?

RH: My first tournament and first time fishing in the Northeast was the White Marlin Open on the Viking 74 demo, and that event quickly became a favorite of mine. During my last season as captain in 2018, we were the top boat out of a fleet of 400. It meant a lot to wrap up my career as a captain with a big win like that. Over the past 15 years, we have had two top-boat finishes, multiple top-five finishes and a second-place heaviest white marlin. Another memorable one for me is the Buccaneer Cup. Before I was hired, I was asked to run the Viking 65 for the tournament, so I packed my bags and drove to Palm Beach. We had a great tournament and thought we had won it but unfortunately fell short. We’ve had multiple top-three finishes but never could seem to win it over the years, but on my last opportunity as a captain, we were able to pull off a win at the 2018 Buc. We did it during the last few minutes of the tournament, and in extremely rough conditions. It’s another one I will never forget.

M: Do you feel captains are becoming too reliant on technology?

RH: I believe there are two different types of captains: those who are instinctively good fishermen, and those who have to rely on everything else to be successful. I’m the complete opposite from what I would call an instinctual captain, guys like Glenn Cameron or Mike Brady. I have to use the tools that are available. One example is sonar: It’s only as good as the person using it, and if you’re not actively scanning the water column and looking for bait and fish, you’re not going to see the benefits that it can offer. I’m always tuned in to the electronics, checking the radar for birds. But I’d say networking is my number-one priority: getting actual reports of what people are seeing on the water from North Carolina to New York and matching those reports with the sea-surface-temperature data and other information to put together an idea of which eddies are holding fish and what patterns are emerging. More technology is becoming available every season, it’s just up to the captains whether they want to use it.

Read Next: Meet Viking Yacht Company President and CEO Pat Healey in our interview.

M: Many might see it as a dream job, but what are some of the drawbacks of being a demo captain?

RH: For me, it has been a dream come true in many ways. At a young age, I told my parents I wanted to live in Palm Beach and work for a boatbuilder, and that’s what I’m doing. And like any job, there are challenges. Living a normal life with normal hours is probably the biggest one. Most people want to look at or sea-trial boats on the weekends, and when you include a busy schedule of tournaments and boat shows, before you know it, you’ve just worked a seven-day week. I am fortunate to have a very supportive wife, Kelly, who has allowed me to pursue my career and give it my best. Just finding time to spend with my family and friends is the ­biggest challenge.

M: How did the demo job prepare you for your responsibilities of today?

RH: Running the demo, you always have a schedule to maintain. I had to perform at the highest level while keeping a perfect boat in show condition at all times. That was the standard. There was no stopping and dropping everything when the bell rang at the end of a day. I still think and operate like that. I go home when I feel like I’ve accomplished everything.

M: Any hobbies other than boating or fishing?

RH: I played golf in high school, so I still like to get out on the course when I can with my dad and my friends.

M: What does the future hold?

RH: Viking Yacht Company will always do extremely well; I foresee great success with Valhalla Boatworks and look forward to helping it mature into an industry-leading ­company as well.

M: Are you seeing any effects of the pandemic?

RH: Our Riviera Beach location remained open for ­business the entire time, which was fortunate for us—the ­waterways have been packed with people boating and fishing. Usually around late spring it starts to slow down as everyone heads back up north, but this year it seems that a lot of them chose to stay in Florida. And they’re buying boats.

  • More: Boats , Viking Yacht Company

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The Difference Main Image

IMAGES

  1. Viking CEO Discusses The 93MY

    viking yacht ceo

  2. Pat Healey, CEO of Viking Yachts on the 93 Motor Yacht

    viking yacht ceo

  3. Q&A with Robert Healey, chairman and CEO of Viking Yacht Co.

    viking yacht ceo

  4. Viking 93 Motor Yacht Preview With Viking CEO Pat Healey

    viking yacht ceo

  5. Viking Yachts CEO Pat Healey Discusses The New 93 Motor Yacht

    viking yacht ceo

  6. Viking CEO talks economy, growth and next generation

    viking yacht ceo

COMMENTS

  1. Passing Of A Legend: Viking's Robert Healey, Sr

    "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." With his brother's help, Mr. Healey ...

  2. Remembering Bob Healey of Viking Yachts

    Jeff Moser. Dec 15, 2021. Robert T. Healey Sr, who co-founded Viking Yachts 57 years ago with his brother Bill and helped guide the New Gretna, N.J.-based builder to become the world's largest manufacturer of sportfishing yachts, has died at the age of 92. "My father was a true leader, and his vision will always guide us," said son Robert ...

  3. Industry mourns loss of Viking Yachts founder Robert Healey, Sr

    Adam Quandt December 16, 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 ...

  4. Robert Healey Sr. of Viking Yachts Passes at Age 92

    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 ...

  5. The Passing of a Legend

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

  6. Robert Healey, co-founder of Viking Yachts in New Jersey, dead at 92

    0:37. 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 ...

  7. 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.

  8. The passing of a legend

    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.

  9. Viking Yachts Co-Founder Robert T. Healey

    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 Luxury Tax on yachts in the early 1990s, passed away last week at the age of 92. His son, Robert Healey, Jr. said, "He believed that the people around him — his family, friends and employees ...

  10. Viking Yachts co-founder Robert Healey Sr. dies at 92

    The co-founder of Viking Yachts, Robert T. Healey Sr., who led a national effort to kill a federal luxury tax that almost decimated boatbuilding, died last week at 92, according

  11. Viking Yachts History

    The Viking Yacht Company has celebrated over five decades in business building luxury performance sportfishing and cruising yachts. Skip to Navigation. Skip to Page Information. ... In the early summer, President and CEO Pat Healey announces the second generation of the Viking 58, a boat that helped build the company in the 1990s. ...

  12. Q&A with Robert Healey, chairman and CEO of Viking Yacht Co

    May 29, 2012. Robert Healey is chairman and CEO of Viking Yacht Co. Healey, 83, along with his brother, William, founded Viking Yacht and Viking Sport Cruisers nearly 50 years ago. After graduating from Camden Catholic High School in Cherry Hill, N.J., Bob Healey attended St. Joseph's College in Philadelphia and then earned a degree from the ...

  13. Interview with Viking Yachts' Pat Healey

    Updated: March 9, 2018. Viking Yacht Co. continues to offer to a diverse lineup of high-quality sport-fishing boats and motoryachts. Courtesy Viking Yacht Co. A second-generation boatbuilder, Pat Healey heads up Viking Yacht Co. as its president and CEO. The company is family owned and operated, with plants spanning some 800,000 square feet on ...

  14. Viking Yachts

    Building a better boat every day is the mantra of the Viking Yacht Company. Viking prides itself on its renowned manufacturing capabilities. From the initial design to the finished product, Viking's highly regarded reputation is rooted in the company's commitment to produce 90 percent of the boat in-house. Except for components such as ...

  15. Robert Healey Jr.

    Oct 2007 - Present 16 years 4 months. New Gretna, New Jersey. The Viking Yacht Company has celebrated four and a half decades in business building luxury performance sportfishing and cruising ...

  16. Viking's Robert Healey Jr. running for Congress

    The Viking Yacht Company is excited to announce that Robert Healey Jr. is running for U.S. House of Representatives in New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District. Bob is the Executive Co-Chairman of the Viking Group, which manages Viking Yachts, Viking Investments, Viking Associates, Viking Residential and Viking Developers.

  17. Viking Yachts Go Very Big With The Introduction Of Two New ...

    So, please believe me when I say, nobody, absolutely nobody, in the boat business introduces new semi-custom sportfishing models quite like Viking Yachts President and CEO Pat Healey. He smiles ...

  18. Pat Healey, CEO of Viking Yachts on the 93 Motor Yacht

    CEO of Viking Yachts, Pat Healey, shares behind the scenes information on the development of the largest vessel in Viking history, the 93 Motor Yacht

  19. Viking Yachts

    Building a better boat every day is the mantra of the Viking Yacht Company. Skip to Navigation. ... "The marine industry is completely sensitive to the status and outlook of the North Atlantic right whale," Viking President and CEO Pat Healey told the crowd, packed with media members and concerned leaders from boat, engine and marine ...

  20. Viking Yachts CEO Pat Healey Discusses The New 93 Motor Yacht

    To follow along with the launch of the new Viking Yachts 93MY, please visit: https://www.hmy.com/article/just-splashed-the-viking-yachts-93-motor-yacht/244

  21. Viking Yacht CEO And Leadership: Executives and Demographics

    Executive Summary. Based on our data team's research, Robert Healey is the Viking Yacht's CEO. Viking Yacht has 3,000 employees, of which 1 are in a leadership position.

  22. Get to Know Capt. Ryan Higgins

    Although he no longer leads Viking's demo program, Capt. Ryan Higgins remains one of sport fishing's most recognizable personalities. Jon Whittle/Marlin. With a storied 16-year career to date with Viking Yacht Company—most of that time spent at the helm of the company's various demonstrator vessels—Capt. Ryan Higgins is one of ...

  23. Valhalla Boatworks

    Bill's son, Patrick J. Healey, is the CEO and President of the Viking Yacht Company. Robert Healey Jr., who is Bob's son, is the Executive Co-Chairman of the Viking Group. Viking Yachts answers only to its unyielding commitment to build the finest boats money can buy. The third generation of the Healey family - Pat's sons Sean and Justin ...