Angling Excellence

Congratulations to Viking President and CEO Pat Healey for receiving the International Game Fish Association’s Gil Keech Heavy Tackle Award for excellence in heavy-tackle angling. Under Pat’s leadership, “Viking remains at the forefront of the industry, producing world-class sportfishing yachts designed for tournament competition,” according to the association. "As an accomplished angler, Healey has competed at the highest levels of offshore fishing."  He is a three-time winner of The International Masters Angling Tournament, securing consecutive victories in 2011 and 2012, and won the prestigious John Rybovich Award again in 2023. 

The Heavy Tackle Award is one of six honors presented by the IGFA (International Game Fish Association) as part of this global non-profit’s prestigious Annual Awards. The IGFA highlighted many of Pat’s achievements, including the establishment of the Viking demo program in 1984 and Viking's success in the White Marlin Open, The MidAtlantic 500, the Bermuda Triple Crown, the Buccaneer Cup and tournaments in the Bahamas. He is also a member of Team Galati, whose Vikings have won the Los Sueños Triple Crown three times.

Power Forward

The Viking Marine Group wrapped up the Palm Beach International Boat Show on Sunday, marking the end of an incredible stretch of events. It began last fall at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, where the Viking 74 and Viking 82 made their world premieres. Next was our VIP Boat Show in Riviera Beach, Florida, a sea trial event that allows guests to experience Viking and Valhalla quality and performance firsthand. This year's VIP was particularly memorable as we also celebrated the completion of the Valhalla Showroom and Service Center.

Following the VIP, the Miami International Boat Show took place in February, leading us to the Palm Beach International Boat Show in March, where we had an expansive display with product from Viking Yachts, Valhalla Boatworks, Princess Yachts America and Valhalla Boat Sales. Always moving forward, we have our sights set on the Viking Key West Challenge (April 9-12) and the Viking and Valhalla Dealer Meeting June 2-4 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where the new Valhalla 55 Sport Yacht will be unveiled. Exciting times! 

Did UConn, Illinois or Texas A&M bust your bracket? You can still vote for a winner in Marlin magazine’s Marlin Madness. The Viking 80 CE is battling for a W in the Gulf Coast Bracket after their win at the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s Ladies' Tournament propelled them into the rankings. Vote now through March 31, to keep the dream alive.