In the vast commercial ocean, countless small boats are tumbling and undulating, but few can stand tall in the wind and waves. It is undoubtedly a rare miracle to see Viking Yachts celebrate its illustrious 60th anniversary. This prestigious sport fishing yacht manufacturer has not only witnessed the changes in the industry, but also written a vivid business epic with its perseverance.
The company, founded in 1964 by Bill and Bob Healy, will launch Viking82 at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show this fall to commemorate the company's 60th anniversary.
The manufacturer started when Bob Healy Sr. and his brother Bill Healy were in the real estate development business. Growing up, they still live in southern New Jersey, where they delve into the struggles of Peterson-Viking, a small shipyard in New Grettner that specializes in building 37-foot wooden sport fishing boats and yachts right next door to a marina owned by the Healy family. The Healy family made a decisive move to acquire Peterson-Viking and renamed it Viking Yachts, consolidating the business under one roof. Bob Healy Sr. serves as CEO, corporate attorney, and CFO, while Bill Healy is in charge of production. Thanks to their joint efforts, Viking Yachts has gradually emerged as a leader in the industry.
When the market shifted from wood to fiberglass, Viking Yachts jumped on the bandwagon and embraced the new material. In 1971, the first fiberglass boat produced by the factory, the Viking 33 Convertible, was launched and quickly became a huge success. This trend was followed by the Viking 40 Convertible, which had delivered more than 600 units by 1988.
However, the road to success has not been easy. The 1990 recession and the 1991 federal luxury tax almost pushed Viking Yachts to the brink. Only 80 craftsmen were employed at that time, significantly less than the 1,500 before the combo. During those difficult times, Bob Healy spent two years building a grassroots campaign to persuade Congress to repeal the luxury tax. Healy's point is: It's a job opportunity killer. His persistence and belief ultimately saved the company and dozens of manufacturers and suppliers who were struggling.
Today, Viking Yachts has been in its 60th year and has grown to include five production lines and a manufacturing facility in Mullika, New Jersey. In celebration of this historic occasion, current President Pat Healy has unveiled the all-new Viking 82C fishing boat. This five-cabin, six-bathroom sport fishing boat not only has excellent performance, but also carries the Healy family's dedication to quality and infinite vision for the future.
At the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the Viking 82C will make its debut to show the world its unique charm. Pat Healy, Bill Healy's son, President and CEO, said, "Long ago, my father emphasized that Viking's purpose was to build a better yacht every day, and Uncle Bob insisted that we like to see the scenery from the top of the hill, so stay there. On our 60th anniversary, the co-founders' statement is stronger than ever. ”
This five-cabin, six-bathroom sport fishing boat will make its debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show later this year. Pat Healy, Bill Healy's son, president and CEO, said in a statement: "Long ago, my father emphasized that Viking's purpose was to build a better yacht every day, and Uncle Bob insisted that we enjoyed the view from the top of the hill and planned to stay there. "On our 60th anniversary, the co-founders' statement is stronger than ever. "
The fishing boat manufacturer continues to be family-run, with the second and third generations of the Healy family leading the Viking into the next decade. Viking includes sister companies Valhalla Boatworks, Princess Yachts USA, Valhalla Yacht Sales, Atlantic Maritime Electronics, Viking Yacht Service Center and Viking Yacht Center.
To date, Viking Yachts has delivered more than 5,000 yachts and mega yachts and is one of the shipbuilders that customers buy repeatedly. The Viking 82C will be in customer sea trials in June, and it will certainly be eye-catching.
Viking Yachts is not only a yacht manufacturing company, but also a family legend that carries dreams and beliefs. In the years to come, they will continue to write this immortal business epic and bring more surprises and touches to the world.