The sailing community is bidding farewell to one of its pioneering figures, William 'Bill' J. Healey. A titan in the shipbuilding sphere, Healey served as the past President of the esteemed American shipyard, Viking Yachts. His passion for boat-building and excellence in design are etched in the firm's successful history, and charges the future course for Viking Yachts.
William Healey passed away at the age of 97, on August 14, 2025. His demise was peaceful, surrounded by his loved ones in New Jersey. His departure was due to prolonged complications following a stroke. Yet, while he may no longer be present physically, his effusive spirit continues to helm Viking Yachts, a leading name in the industry that he remained ingrained throughout his life.
Old Sea Dogs View
What this means on the water
This story matters only if it helps sailors, owners, clubs, marinas and readers make better decisions afloat or ashore. The new point should be the named event, result, boat, notice, place or change in the report above, not the shine around it. Old Sea Dogs treats press releases and organiser statements as a starting point, then looks for the practical detail: dates, entry rules, berthing, costs, crew impact, safety notes and what readers should check next. What remains uncertain is the usual waterfront mix of weather, final notices, availability, pricing and how a claim holds up once people arrive. Use this piece as a pointer, then check the linked source before making plans.
Social
Follow Old Sea Dogs
Follow Old Sea Dogs for the next dispatch, short video, show note or dockside update.
German Naval Yards (GNY) embarks on an exciting venture to construct the massive hull and superstructure of a new 100-meter-plus Abeking & Rasmussen superyacht.
Constructive milestones reached as the Italian shipyard Codecasa begins development of their transcendent seventh Codecasa 43 yacht, enhancing the luxurious sea-travelling experience for yacht enthusiasts.