2000: Bob and Bill Healey, Viking Yachts
Bob and Bill Healey
"The Healey brothers embody the best traditions of our industry as well as a true passion for boating" said Louisa Rudeen, editor of Motor Boating during the award presentation at the Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail.
For more than 40 years the Healeys have been catalysts for change, promoters and protectors of recreational boating through educational, safety, coalition-building and funding efforts.
They are perhaps best known within the industry for their tenacity in helping to push through repeal of the boat luxury tax of the early 1990s. Yet their dedication can also be seen in the recent formation of the RFA to curtail overfishing, and development of big boat standards through the American Boat & Yacht Council and NMMA Certified programs.
Over time the Viking Yacht companies have introduced 60 new models and sold more than 3,700 yachts worldwide. Today it reports its best year ever, employs 1,200, and benefits the livelihood of more than 10,000 people.