William “Bill” J. Healey, co-founder and longtime president of Viking Yachts, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at the age of 97. Surrounded by family in Somers Point, New Jersey, Healey’s passing marks the end of an era for the recreational marine industry—but his legacy will continue to shape boatbuilding and sport fishing for generations to come.
Building a Boatbuilding Empire
In 1964, Bill and his late brother, Robert T. Healey Sr., founded the Viking Yacht Company in New Gretna, New Jersey. What began as a small wooden boatbuilder transformed into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of luxury fiberglass sportfishing and cruising yachts. Bill’s relentless pursuit of innovation and uncompromising standards turned Viking into an industry powerhouse, producing vessels renowned for performance, craftsmanship, and design.
Though the company grew into an 880,000-square-foot facility producing up to 100 yachts a year, Bill always reminded his employees that they did not work for him—they worked with him. He knew hundreds of shipwrights, carpenters, electricians, and designers by name, often extending his memory to their family members as well. Each evening, he stood at the factory door, thanking his team personally as they left for the day.
This culture of care and loyalty became a cornerstone of Viking’s identity. Bill even created a factory health department that provided employees and their families with free on-site medical care, underscoring his deep commitment to those who built the boats alongside him.
Resilience and Innovation
Bill’s leadership was tested in 1991, when a federal luxury tax devastated yacht sales and forced Viking to lay off 1,500 workers. While many believed the company would never recover, Bill refused to quit. When the tax was repealed two years later, Viking roared back, stronger than ever. That resilience cemented Viking’s reputation as a symbol of American determination and family-driven success.
Always ahead of his time, Bill modernized boatbuilding with groundbreaking investments in technology and sustainability. He oversaw the installation of a tri-generation facility to power the plant, a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system, solar panels, and advanced CNC machinery. His vision ensured Viking Yachts was not only a leader in craftsmanship but also a pioneer in responsible manufacturing.
A Life of Service and Recognition
Born in Atlantic City in 1927, Bill grew up in a close-knit family with three brothers. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the final years of World War II before earning his degree in political science from St. Joseph’s College. After working for his father in the steel business, he turned his sights to the Jersey Shore, setting the course for what would become Viking Yachts.
Over the decades, Bill’s contributions earned him numerous honors, including Ernst & Young’s N.J. Manufacturing Entrepreneur of the Year Award, induction into the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame, and the Marine Trades Association of N.J. Hall of Fame. Yet for all his accolades, he remained a man most proud of his people, his family, and the boats that bore the Viking name.
Family and Legacy
Bill is survived by his son, Patrick J. Healey, now president and CEO of Viking Yachts, and daughter Katherine, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carry forward his legacy. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary “Sissy” Healey, his daughter Mary “Missy” Hartdorn, and his brothers Robert, Patrick, and Edward.
Though he officially retired in 2013, Bill never truly stepped away. Well into his 90s, he could still be found at Viking’s New Gretna facility, greeting customers, chatting with employees, and continuing to inspire all those around him.
William J. “Bill” Healey was more than a boatbuilder. He was a visionary leader, a tireless innovator, and above all, a man who believed in people. His influence can be seen in every Viking yacht that cuts across the water today and will be felt every time a fisherman heads offshore in pursuit of their dream.
