-pic of the month- Bayliss at Carolina Boat Builders Tournament
Absolute Yachts Gender Equality Certification
Absolute Yachts has obtained the Gender Equality Certification, an achievement that reflects the company’s commitment to promoting equal opportunities and fostering an organisational culture founded on respect, active listening and the recognition of individual skills. The certification represents a significant milestone within a broader journey undertaken to assess the company’s practices, acknowledge the progress already made and identify new opportunities for improvement. The process involved different areas of the organisation and helped transform shared principles into tangible objectives, actions and responsibilities. Over recent months, Absolute has worked on processes, policies and initiatives covering different aspects of working life: from professional development and career opportunities to work-life balance and organisational culture, as well as the prevention of all forms of discrimination. Some initiatives have already been implemented, while others will be progressively developed over the coming months. Achieving the certification means taking on a tangible and ongoing commitment: maintaining the standards reached, monitoring results and continuing to improve over time. The contribution of our people will be essential throughout this journey. Ideas, observations and experiences are invaluable in helping us understand where we can improve further and in building, together, an organisation in which everyone can feel heard, respected and free to express their full potential.
Absolute Yachts New CEO
A new chapter begins for Absolute Yachts, a leading Italian luxury yacht manufacturer: the Piacenza-based shipyard has officially announced the appointment of Alessandro Tirelli as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This appointment, effective from the beginning of this year, is part of the brand's ongoing growth and evolution, aimed at strengthening its position on international markets. Alessandro Tirelli's arrival at the helm of the company comes at a time of great dynamism. This development was further strengthened in 2024 by the entry of Wise Equity, an asset management company, into the company's capital, which, through the Wisequity VI fund, acquired a majority stake. The shared goal is to enhance the shipyard's distinctive identity and industrial foundation, propelling Absolute Yachts towards increasingly ambitious global challenges. In this phase of transition and growth, continuity plays a crucial role. The company's board continues to count on the presence of historic and key figures such as Sergio Maggi (Chief Technical Officer), Marcello Bè (Chief Operating Officer), and Giuseppe Bertocci (Chief of Manufacturing). The board members emphasized how Tirelli's experience and vision perfectly complement the skills that have always distinguished the company. A special tribute was paid to Angelo Gobbi , a key figure whose many years of experience have helped define the shipyard's DNA and success in the high-end sector. "I am very proud to take the helm of Absolute Yachts at such an important moment in its history ," stated Alessandro Tirelli, CEO of Absolute Yachts . " Absolute is a company that expresses a strong identity, through a highly recognizable product and, above all, thanks to people who have built a unique wealth of expertise over the years. It is on this solid foundation that we want to build the next chapter, further evolving the company, strengthening its positioning, and projecting its identity into the future." The new CEO's initial statements clarify the direction for the coming years: " For us, evolving means continuing to innovate without losing our identity," says Tirelli. The new management will aim to strengthen the product to meet the expectations of an increasingly demanding and sophisticated international clientele, increasing engagement with foreign markets while preserving the brand's distinctive exclusivity.
Bayliss at Carolina Boat Builders Tournament
The Carolina Boatbuilders Tournament took place last week at Pirate’s Cove, bringing together local boatbuilders, fishermen, and the community for a week centered around fishing, craftsmanship, and giving back. While weather made for a challenging weekend on the water, the events at Pirate’s Cove were a huge success. More importantly, the tournament continues to support local students through scholarships, helping create opportunities for the next generation in our community. This year’s tournament honored Glenn Bradley, a local boatbuilder who has made it a priority to pass his knowledge on to the younger generation. Glenn has worked with local students throughout the year, teaching them the fundamentals of boatbuilding and guiding them through a project of their own. That project, a hand-built skiff, made its way through three local boat shops during the build, including Scarborough, Croswait, and Bayliss, before being auctioned off at the conclusion of the tournament. It was a great example of the knowledge, craftsmanship, and community that make the local boatbuilding industry special.
Bering Yachts New Shareholder
Bering Yachts is pleased to announce that Maltese businessman Dmitry Vasiliev has acquired a shareholding in the company and joined as a partner. Dmitry Vasiliev is a PhD of Technical Sciences with a strong engineering background and proven experience in the marine industry. He holds an Executive MBA from the University of Antwerp Management School. Previously founded and served as Chairman of the Board of a builder of high-speed composite motor yachts. In addition, he brings more than 30 years of senior executive and partner-level experience in leading technology companies. Within Bering Yachts, Mr Vasiliev will focus on the optimisation of production and business processes. His mandate is to strengthen the company’s operational reliability, raise manufacturing quality standards, and further solidify Bering’s position as a trusted leader in the explorer yacht segment. Mr Vasiliev’s investment also reinforces the company’s financial structure and contributes to its overall financial health and stability. In parallel, he will oversee strategic collaborations within the Superyacht Division, with particular emphasis on projects of 50 metres and above. Bering Yachts expects to announce its first major collaboration in this segment in the near future — a partnership that is set to elevate the company’s product offering to a new qualitative level. “We are delighted to welcome Dmitry as a shareholder and partner,” said Alexei Mikhailov, Founder and CEO of Bering Yachts. “His combination of technical expertise, shipbuilding experience, and deep knowledge of business optimisation will play an important role in the next stage of our development.” The partnership strengthens Bering Yachts’ focus on improving how the company builds its boats and on raising the standard of what it offers, at a time when the yard is steadily increasing its footprint in the explorer and superyacht sectors.
Jarrett Bay Epic 2026 Tournament Season
Jarrett Bay teams began stacking up results early in the season. Mainline claimed the Non-Sonar Billfish Division at the Pelagic Rockstar Offshore Tournament, while Builder's Choice, Rebelette, Nikki Bella and Marlin Fever followed with podium finishes and gamefish honors across several major events. The season's defining moment came when Marlin Fever landed a 919.9-pound blue marlin to set a new Big Rock tournament record and earn $6,513,188. With additional wins from Watertight, Magic Moment, Iron Leader and Developin' Habits, Jarrett Bay-built boats captured 72.5% of the record $9 million-plus purse. Builder's Choice carried the momentum offshore with a second-place finish in the Bermuda Billfish Blast before releasing seven blue marlin to win the Bermuda Big Game Classic. The run also earned Jarrett Bay another Manufacturer's Cup and helped propel Builder's Choice to second overall in the Bermuda Triple Crown. Builder's Choice turned in another strong showing at the Pirate's Cove Billfish Tournament, surging up the leader board to finish second overall. Fellow Jarrett Bay boat Weldor's Ark also made its mark by landing the tournament's heaviest tuna, adding another highlight to the fleet's 2026 season. Fresh off taking Top Tuna honors at Pirate's Cove, Hull 26 Weldor's Ark carried that gamefish momentum into the 2026 Virginia Beach Billfish Tournament. John B. Roberts landed the tournament's heaviest dolphin at 35.40 pounds, earning Top Dolphin honors and a $10,167 payout. The season wrapped with Hull 59 Builder's Choice tallying 4,280 points to finish second overall in the 2026 NC Billfish Series. Congratulations to all of the Jarrett Bay teams on a memorable tournament season. We're proud of what the fleet accomplished up and down the coast, and we're already looking forward to 2027. Revisit this season's highlights and follow Jarrett Bay tournament results below.
Jarrett Bay Randy Ramsey in ZF Profiles
Four decades into Jarrett Bay's story, Randy Ramsey is still looking ahead. In the final installment of ZF's Profiles From the Helm, he shares how lasting partnerships, a commitment to giving back and an open-handed approach to leadership continue to influence the company today. It's a reflection on what endures when success is measured by more than the boats themselves.
Omaya Appoints New Head of Commercial
OMAYA Yachts, the premium European power catamaran brand, has appointed experienced commercial strategist Jean Paul Vaele as its new head of commercial, strengthening the company’s leadership team as it enters its next phase of international growth. Vaele brings more than 25 years of commercial experience to the role, having served as an exclusive distributor for Burton Snowboards across the Benelux countries, before moving into interim sales and business development director positions across a range of sectors, including design furniture, industrial solar panel systems and electric marine technology. His marine experience includes working with electric boat manufacturer X Shore, as well as commercial roles with PWR eFoils, Green Power Boats, which develops fully electric passenger catamarans, and Crooze Yachts. With a lifelong passion for being on the water, Vaele’s move into the marine industry was a natural progression. His journey into the sector began after being approached by the founder of X Shore, an opportunity which allowed him to combine his commercial expertise with his longstanding passion for life on the water. Joining OMAYA at a pivotal moment in its growth, Vaele will lead the brand’s commercial expansion and strengthen its position in the premium power catamaran market. Commenting on his appointment he said, “OMAYA has all the ingredients to become one of the leading boutique brands in the premium power catamaran market. The combination of contemporary European design, exceptional build quality, competitive manufacturing capabilities and a strong value proposition gives the brand a very strong foundation from which to grow internationally. “What excites me most is the opportunity to build those foundations and work alongside a devoted team to achieve the targets we have set for OMAYA. My vision is for OMAYA to establish itself as a Premium European Boutique Builder, offering European craftsmanship, contemporary luxury, intelligent innovation, exceptional living space, personalised ownership and sustainable long-term value,” he continued. Vaele’s appointment comes as OMAYA continues to build its presence in the global premium power catamaran market. As part of its longer-term commercial strategy, OMAYA will explore opportunities across new international markets while developing its dealer network and future initiatives. Talking of the new appointment, CEO of OMAYA Yachts, Kaloyan Radulov said “Jean Paul brings a wealth of international commercial experience, a deep understanding of the marine sector and, importantly, a genuine passion for the boating lifestyle. His experience across both established brands and emerging electric marine businesses gives him a valuable perspective as we continue to develop OMAYA. “We are at an exciting stage in the company’s journey, and strengthening our commercial leadership is an important step as we build our international presence and continue to establish OMAYA as a leading power catamaran builder. Jean Paul shares our ambition for the brand and our commitment to creating an exceptional ownership experience, and we are delighted to welcome him to the team.” Kaloyan concluded. With customers increasingly seeking larger living spaces, stability, efficiency and the ability to spend longer periods on board, the power catamaran segment continues to offer strong opportunities for growth. At the same time, expectations are evolving beyond the yacht itself, with owners placing greater emphasis on aftersales support, digital connectivity, personalised service and a sense of community. Vaele’s appointment is designed to help OMAYA capitalise on these trends and build a distinctive global proposition centred not only on the yacht, but on the complete ownership experience.
SACS Lounge Opens in Italy
SACS MARINE, a leader in the yachting industry, is evolving toward a business model aimed at strengthening its direct relationship with boat owners - while continuing to prioritise the quality of after-sales service and local presence, which are essential to providing a distinctive experience. The Italian shipyard, a world leader in the design and production of boats that combine comfort, adventure, elegance, sportiness, and versatility under the Strider and Rebel brands, is announcing the launch of a process to evolve its go-to-market model, which will complement its traditional dealer network with a new collaboration model with selected local partners. Not merely a change of channel, but a transformation of the relationship between the shipyard, boat owner and sales network: the new strategic partners will pool their expertise and extensive reach to become a point of reference for all services that the shipyard, due to its industrial nature, cannot provide with the same level of proximity: from delivery to after-sales service, including all the support and relationship-building activities necessary to build the owner’s brand loyalty over time. In this process, SACS Marine has identified Nautica Bertelli as its first partner with which to launch this new phase, drawing on a long-standing presence rooted in two complementary locations: the Santa Margherita Ligure facility, the company’s representative office in Liguria with offices and a dedicated marina, and the Paratico facility, on Lake Iseo, the historic headquarters of the Brescia-based company and its flagship showroom, which will also serve as a technical base for boat testing and on-water trials for enthusiasts and prospects. Operating in the boating industry for over fifty years, Nautica Bertelli has built its identity on a strong professional foundation and a comprehensive range of services, including storage, service and management of the boat throughout its entire life cycle: the same expertise that SACS Marine now intends to make available to its customers through this new partnership model. Matteo Magni — SACS MARINE; “The evolution of our business model stems from our desire to be even closer to boat owners and to ensure an experience in line with the values that set SACS Marine apart. For this reason, for the first SACS Lounge in Italy, we chose to cooperate with Nautica Bertelli, which shares our commitment to service, attention to quality, and ability to build long-term relationships. Sharing values and vision is the fundamental prerequisite for creating tangible value for the end customer." Massimo Bertelli — Nautica Bertelli; “More than fifty years of history meets SACS’s cutting-edge innovation to redefine the boating concept. Ours is a shared challenge that looks toward the future of the industry: to exceed current standards through a long-term vision and synergistic collaboration, capable of enhancing the owner’s experience by focusing, with the utmost expertise, on every one of their needs.” The partnership is part of a broader strategy of SACS Marine aimed at strengthening its direct relationship with boat owners, while continuing to focus on service quality and local presence.
Sanlorenzo Host Debuts of Homo Faber in Citta Exhibition
Sanlorenzo Arts has become a partner of Homo Faber in Città, extending its cultural programme into one of the leading international celebrations of contemporary craftsmanship. From 1 to 30 September, Casa Sanlorenzo will serve as the principal venue of the city-wide initiative organized by the Michelangelo Foundation for Creativity and Craftsmanship, presenting three complementary installations that explore the enduring relationship between materials, making and contemporary design. Together, the installation and exhibitions invite visitors to experience craftsmanship not as a collection of artifacts, but as a shared cultural language connecting design and contemporary artistic practice. The new partnership marks another milestone in Sanlorenzo Arts' tenth anniversary year, reinforcing the Maison's belief that craftsmanship is not simply a tradition to preserve, but a living cultural language through which heritage, innovation and creativity continue to evolve. Anchored by the first full year of activity at Casa Sanlorenzo, the collaboration further extends the cultural vision that has seen Sanlorenzo establish itself as an active patron of the arts, architecture and design. Visitors to Casa Sanlorenzo, will first encounter The Integrity of Materials, a new installation created in collaboration with Artemest and positioned at the entrance to the space beside the glass staircase that has become an iconic feature of the building. Through four contemporary objects crafted by some of Venetian's finest artisans, the installation reveals the shared philosophy between Sanlorenzo's philosophy and the traditions of Italian craftsmanship: that exceptional materials, shaped with integrity, precision and human expertise, become timeless expressions of design. Beyond the installation, Casa Sanlorenzo hosts two major exhibitions offering complementary perspectives on contemporary craftsmanship. Ca' Riflesso, curated by Artemest, transforms the space into the imagined Venetian home of a discerning collector, where furniture, lighting, decorative objects and artworks by more than 50 Italian artisans celebrate the richness of Italy's craft traditions. Alongside it, Fiat Lux, presented by De Mains De Maîtres Luxembourg, brings together more than sixty works exploring craftsmanship as a form of knowledge, experimentation and cultural expression, using light as a medium to reveal the intelligence and integrity of materials. Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo, said: “Hosting Homo Faber in Città at Casa Sanlorenzo gives tangible expression to the values we share with the Michelangelo Foundation: a profound appreciation for culture and the arts, a commitment to safeguarding craftsmanship, and a belief in supporting creativity in all its forms. “Casa Sanlorenzo was conceived as a home for art, culture and ideas, where artistic heritage and craft excellence contribute to the contemporary cultural dialogue. Through this partnership, we demonstrate how the values that define us — material integrity, master craftsmanship and constant innovation — are inspiring creativity far beyond the world of yachting.” Following The Integrity of Materials, visitors continue through two exhibitions offering complementary perspectives on contemporary craftsmanship. Ca' Riflesso by Artemest. Curated by Artemest, Ca' Riflesso transforms Casa Sanlorenzo into the imagined Venetian home of a discerning collector, where furniture, lighting, decorative objects and artworks by more than 50 Italian artisans create a contemporary celebration of Italy's craft heritage. Bringing together exceptional makers from Venice and the Veneto region, the exhibition explores the dialogue between materials, light and human presence, revealing craftsmanship as a living expression of culture, creativity and design. Fiat Lux by De Mains De Maîtres Luxembourg. Presented by De Mains De Maîtres Luxembourg, Fiat Lux brings together more than 60 works by leading Luxembourg artisans, exploring craftsmanship as a form of knowledge, experimentation and cultural expression. Using light as both subject and medium, the exhibition reveals the intelligence, precision and individuality embedded within each object, celebrating the enduring value of making in an increasingly digital world. The partnership represents the latest chapter in Sanlorenzo Arts' decade-long commitment to creating dialogue between craftsmanship, architecture, design and contemporary culture. Through Casa Sanlorenzo, the Maison continues to extend its cultural vision, creating a platform where artists, designers, artisans and institutions come together to explore new ideas through the universal language of making.
Sanlorenzo Appoints Group Investor Senior Relations Manager
Sanlorenzo S.p.A. announces that, effective 1 September 2026, Niccolò Guido Storer will join the Group as Investor Relations Senior Manager. In this role, he will be responsible for managing the Group’s relationships with investors, analysts and the wider financial community, reporting directly to Group Chief Financial Officer Attilio Bruzzese. Storer holds a degree in Finance from Bocconi University and is a CFA charterholder, with over 15 years of experience in Equity Research with a focus on the luxury and yachting sectors, gained at Mediobanca and Kepler Cheuvreux. At Kepler Cheuvreux, he covered Sanlorenzo from its listing in 2019, developing an in-depth understanding of the Group, the luxury industry and its key competitive and market dynamics. Sanlorenzo welcomes Niccolò Guido Storer to the Group and thanks Ivan Cutrufello for his professionalism and contribution, wishing him every success in his future career.
Sasga Appoints New Sales and Marketing Director
asga Yachts has named Jordi Ferrer as its new Sales & Marketing Director. Ferrer will lead the shipyard’s global commercial and marketing strategy and will report to Sasga Yachts’ General Director. Sasga Yachts created the position as the company enters a stage of consolidation and international growth, part of a broader effort to professionalize its executive structure. The Sales & Marketing Director is a strategic leadership role responsible for defining, leading and executing the shipyard's international sales and marketing strategy, with direct accountability for business results. Sasga Yachts is targeting a doubling of its business over the next four years, driven largely by expansion into the American and Asian markets. Ferrer's mandate includes building out and professionalizing the shipyard's international dealer network to support that growth. Its newest model, the Menorquín 48 Flybridge, won the European Yacht & Powerboat of the Year award in 2026, in the category for yachts up to 18 meters. Ferrer has more than 20 years of international commercial leadership experience, including ten years in the yachting industry. From 2005 to 2015, he was Sales & Marketing Lead at Hermanos Guasch Embarcaciones Deportivas, a Mediterranean yacht dealer based in L’Hospitalet de l’Infant, Spain, with a portfolio of motor and sailing yachts from 20 to 76 feet. Sales grew 20 percent a year under his direction and topped 4 million euros in his final year. He started the dealership’s sailing yacht line and closed the sale of a 76-foot CNB valued at more than 3.5 million euros, the largest single sale in the company’s history. He represented the dealership at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the Paris Boat Show, Boot Düsseldorf and the Grand Pavois in La Rochelle, and led its shift f rom print to digital marketing, including a CRM and ERP integration. For the past decade, Ferrer has worked in technology marketing. From 2021 to 2026, he was Senior Demand Gen & Digital Marketing Manager at Palo Alto Networks, running paid media strategy for the company’s cybersecurity business across North America and Latin America and managing quarterly budgets of 2 to 3 million dollars. From 2016 to 2021, he was Senior Integrated & Digital Marketing Manager at VMware, where he led global demand generation for the Carbon Black security portfolio and won the company’s Marketeer of the Year award in 2020. “I started in this industry twenty years ago, selling yachts on the Costa Dorada. Coming back to build the Sasga Yachts / Menorquín name feels less like a new job and more like a homecoming. I want to bring the marketing discipline I built at VMware and Palo Alto Networks together with what I learned about closing yacht sales in person, in front of the customer. Doubling this business in four years means building a real presence in the Americas and Asia, not just adding a few dealers on paper.” Jordi Ferrer, Sales & Marketing Director, Sasga Yachts “Jordi’s appointment represents another step forward in an evolution that began in 1978, when my father, Juan Sastre Bernat, founded Astilleros Menorca. Since then, we have sought to preserve our traditions and craftsmanship while continuing to evolve in response to the needs of each new era. The creation of Sasga Yachts was the natural evolution of that family project as we entered an increasingly international, demanding and competitive market. Today, we are embarking on a new chapter in that same journey, further professionalizing our organization and driving the international growth of the brand. Jordi’s experience, both within the marine industry and in international companies, will help us build a stronger and more professional commercial organization while preserving what has made us different for almost fifty years: our Menorcan roots, the quality of our yachts, and our unique way of understanding and enjoying the sea.” José Luis Sastre, Executive Chairman, Sasga Yachts
Saxdor Appoints New Dealers in Argentina and Canada
Europe’s fastest-growing boat brand continues to strengthen its presence across the Americas with the appointment of two new dealer partners: Naval Motor as Saxdor’s exclusive representative in Argentina and M&P Yacht Centre as the official dealer for British Columbia, Canada. Entering Argentina for the first time and further expanding its Canadian footprint, these strategic partnerships reflect Saxdor’s commitment to its long-term growth strategy across these regions, following the brand’s expansion in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and Eastern Canada. "We are happy to welcome Naval Motor and M&P Yacht Centre to the growing Saxdor network. Both companies have built outstanding reputations in their respective markets through decades of experience and a deep understanding of their local boating communities," said Don Smith, President of Sales – Americas at Saxdor Yachts. "We are continuously pushing the boundaries of technology and functionality to create boats that not only deliver exceptional performance but also anticipate the evolving lifestyle of today's owners. What makes us particularly excited is seeing how this approach to boating resonates with owners across very different markets." Saxdor’s entry into Argentina represents a further investment in the brand’s expansion across the Americas, and the appointment of Naval Motor as the exclusive representative in the country follows growing interest from local boat owners in Saxdor’s versatile fleet. Established in 1968 and based in Buenos Aires, Naval Motor will introduce the full range to the Argentinian market, bringing extensive experience and a strong reputation in the local marine industry, making it the ideal platform to introduce the full Saxdor range to the market. In Canada, Saxdor is expanding into British Columbia, one of the country’s most renowned boating regions. Through the appointment of M&P Yacht Centre as its official dealer for the province, Saxdor gains a partner with more than 65 years of experience in the marine industry and a strong reputation among West Coast boaters. Founded as a family business in 1957, M&P provides customers with a comprehensive boating service, from yacht sales to service and support, representing some of the world’s leading marine brands. With locations including its Yacht Centre at Coal Harbour Marina in Vancouver, M&P will play a key role in extending Saxdor’s presence in Western Canada. With demand for Saxdor yachts continuing to grow worldwide, the company remains focused on expanding its dealer network in strategically important markets, ensuring owners benefit from expert local representation and a premium ownership experience.
Sirena Announce Leadership Transition
Sirena Yachts is pleased to announce a leadership transition at Sirena Yachts USA. Constantinos K. Constantinou, who has successfully led the company's U.S. operations since 2018, has assumed the role of Senior Advisor for the company. Succeeding him is Ensar Çabuk, who has been appointed to lead Sirena Yachts USA and oversee the company's operations and continued growth in the U.S. market. In his new role as Senior Advisor, Constantinou will continue to support Sirena Yachts' strategic and commercial development, while sharing the experience and market insight that have helped establish the brand as one of the leading names in the luxury motoryacht sector. During his tenure as Head of Sirena Yachts USA, he was instrumental in expanding the company's presence across North America, strengthening its dealer network, and building lasting relationships with owners and partners. He has also been a passionate advocate for Sirena's vision of creating capable, long-range cruising yachts distinguished by exceptional engineering, craftsmanship, and comfort. Ensar Çabuk's appointment marks the next step in a career spanning more than 15 years with Sirena Marine. A Naval Architect and Marine Engineer with a Master's in Yacht Design, he joined the company in 2011 as a Design Engineer before becoming Project Manager for the development of the successful models Sirena 58 and Sirena 64. He later transitioned into commercial leadership, serving as Sales Responsible and Manager of Sales, where he helped expand the brand's international presence and dealer network. Since relocating to Fort Lauderdale in 2023 as Country Manager of Sirena Yachts USA, Çabuk has worked closely with Constantinos, dealers, owners, and industry partners across the region. His unique combination of technical expertise, product knowledge, and commercial experience positions him well to lead the next phase of Sirena Yachts USA's growth.
Viking Special Sea Trial Event
Seize this exclusive opportunity before the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show to discover the new additions to the Viking and Valhalla fleets, an experience you simply can't afford to miss. On Friday, Oct. 16 at the Viking Yacht Service Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a one-day sea trial event. The line-up will feature the four new models: the Viking 70 Convertible, Viking 64 Sport Coupe, Viking 50 Sport Coupe and Valhalla 46 Sport Yacht. Get aboard, experience the boats on the water, meet with Viking and Valhalla product specialists and preview upcoming inventory and availability. Sea trial reservations are limited. Please contact your authorized Viking Yachts and Valhalla Boatworks dealer to schedule yours.
Viking 250th Great American Expedition
Yacht Company hosted a South Jersey stop of the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) Great American Expedition earlier this week, part of the national celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The campaign is taking the America 250 flag to DOI-managed lands and waters across the country, with the National Marine Manufacturers Association coordinating boat expeditions. Pat Healey was joined by his children Sean, Justin and Kaitlyn Healey, underscoring Viking’s multigenerational family ownership. The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge protects coastal marshes, shallow coves and other habitat around Great Bay, while supporting fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. Great Bay also has a direct connection to Viking: These waters have long been used for sea trials, testing and product development. The event brought together American boatbuilding, conservation and access to public waters. For Pat Healey, bringing the Great American Expedition to Viking has special meaning. “I grew up in this area. The Healey family, we’ve been here 62 years on this river. This is the Bass River that leads to the Mullica River, and then we were out in Great Bay. It’s just a wonderful thing.” The visit continued inside Viking’s New Gretna plant, giving federal and industry guests a closer look at the people and processes behind the boats. Founded in 1964, Viking has delivered more than 6,000 boats and employs 1,850 boatbuilders across its manufacturing, engineering, service, sales and administrative operations.
Viking for The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis
A team from the Viking Yacht Service Center took on The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis – a grueling, one-day, 80-mile paddle from Bimini, Bahamas, to Lake Worth Beach, Florida. Inspired by the ocean’s therapeutic benefits for those living with cystic fibrosis, this endurance challenge demands both physical strength and determination. Debra Brown, Payton Morse, and Ray and Theresa Connolly were part of the Viking Crusaders relay team, while Ryan Higgins took on double duty as both paddler and boat captain. “It was brutal,” Ryan said, “but incredibly rewarding, knowing it’s for such an important cause.” Following the event, participants gathered at Valhalla Yacht Sales’ Riviera Beach location for an awards ceremony.
Viking at Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship
The Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship is one of sportfishing’s most sought-after titles. This year, the Viking 80 It Just Takes Time claimed 2nd Place and the Viking 72 Metal Masher was 3rd Place. The series is comprised of the Orange Beach Billfish Classic, Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic, Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic and the Blue Marlin Grand Championship. The Pratt family’s It Just Takes Time placed 3rd at the Mississippi Gulf Coast, 2nd at Emerald Coast and 1st at the Blue Marlin Grand. Brother-and-sister duo Leah Pratt, 16, and George Pratt, 13, released 17 blue marlin, four white marlin and seven sails during the series. Metal Masher, the Tinney family’s Viking 72, took 2nd Place at Orange Beach with 14-year-old Baker Tinney’s four blue marlin releases. Seventeen-year-old Teddy Tinney landed the tournament-winning 780.4-pound blue marlin at the Emerald Coast.
Viking at Texas Legend Billfish Classic
See-Mah won the Texas Legends Billfish Classic. With Captain Cameron Plaag at the helm, Rod Rodriguez’s Viking 62 claimed Top Billfish Points and Top Blue Marlin Points after releasing six blues, three whites and seven sails. They also took the 2nd Place Dolphin to the scales at 27.7 pounds. The Viking 55 Marilee secured 2nd Place Billfish Points and 3rd Place Blue Marlin Points with one blue, six whites and three sails. The A-Team, a Viking 55, weighed the heaviest wahoo at 44.1 pounds.
Viking at Novey Marine Invitational
Jet Lag a Viking 46 Billfish won the Novey Marine Invitational. The team on the Viking 46 Billfish released 38 sailfish for the honors. Third Place went to the Viking 58 Ambush with a pair of blue marlin and 24 sailfish. The two-day event was fished out of the legendary Tropic Star Lodge in Piñas Bay, Panama.
Viking at White Marlin Open
Reel Hunter, a Viking 58, claimed Second Place White Marlin at the 53rd annual White Marlin Open. Kevin Howell boated the 71.5-pound fish. The boat is owned by Jon Eugenio and captained by Graig Zurn. Chris Volpe’s Viking 74 Gray Fox won both the tuna and wahoo divisions – a rare feat. Captain Andy Crews put John Wardlaw on a 179-pound bigeye and 69.5-pound ‘hoo for the category championships. See Legs, a Viking 46 Billfish, took 3rd Place Tuna with Anthony Rubino’s 110.5-pound fish. The six-day tournament with 334 boats saw stiff competition in the release division. Jaclyn Fields, fishing on the Viking 64 Inconclusive with her husband, Captain Ronnie Fields, finished Fifth Place Angler with nine white marlin. The boat also claimed Ninth Place Boat and Ninth Place Release Boat. Captain Blaine Champlin led the Viking 62 Pachanga to Third Place Boat and Third Place Release Boat. The team released 17 white marlin and a sailfish. Krazy Salt’s, a Viking 80, took Fourth Place Release Boat and Fifth Place Boat with a pair of blue marlin and 12 whites. The Viking 62 Taylor Jean was Fifth Place Release Boat and Sixth Place Boat with two blues and a dozen whites. More than 1,200 pounds of food was donated to local food banks during tournament week through the generosity of anglers and the skilled preparation of Catch & Carry. The tournament, dubbed the world’s largest and richest billfish tournament, was fished out of Ocean City, Maryland, and had $9.9 million up for grabs.
Viking at Montauk Canyon Challenge
The Montauk Canyon Challenge showcased the versatility of the Viking fleet, with boats landing on the leaderboard in every major division. The Viking 56 More Time led the way, claiming the Billfish Points title with a blue marlin release, weighing the tournament’s Heaviest Swordfish at 78.2 pounds and finishing second in Most Points Overall. Captain Ben McCarron was at the wheel while Duke Paternoster, Malcolm Paternoster, Scott Paternoster and Tommy Paternoster were on the rods. The tuna competition delivered strong results. The Viking 48 Horse Power earned top honors in the Heaviest Tuna Junior category when Rohan Keogh weighed a 156.8-pound bigeye. In the Heaviest Tuna division, the Viking 55 Freedom claimed 2nd Place with a 188.4-pound bigeye, followed by the Viking 52 Three G's with a 179.8-pound fish. Vikings dominated the yellowfin categories. The Viking 52 Alexa Ann weighed the Heaviest Yellowfin at 103.6 pounds. The Viking 61 Reel American claimed 2nd Place with a 90-pounder, while the Viking 68 Joli matched that weight to secure 3rd Place honors. In multi-fish categories, Rumblefish, a Viking 42, finished 2nd in the Heaviest Three Yellowfin division with a combined weight of 221.2 pounds. Alexa Ann added another podium finish with 218.8 pounds of yellowfin to place 3rd. The Viking 55 Freedom topped the Stringer category with a 470.5-pound total for two bigeyes and one yellowfin, while the Viking 68 Pipe Dream finished 2nd with 463.7 pounds. The Viking 80 The Experience earned the Heaviest Tuna Female award with Sam Perillo's 130.4-pound tuna. The Viking 58 Finisterra claimed the Heaviest Tilefish title with a 6.2-pound catch. The Viking 55 Freedom also added a 2nd Place finish in the Heaviest Mahi Mahi category with a 20.8-pound fish. The Viking 72 One Love placed 3rd in the Billfish Points division. The Viking 64 Sexy Fish secured 2nd Place in the Heaviest Swordfish division with a 59.6-pound swordfish. Valhallas also found their way into the Winner's Circle. The V-46 Patriot finished 2nd in both the Heaviest Mahi Outboard division with a 10.2-pound mahi and the Heaviest Trifecta Outboard division, with a combined weight of 70.4 pounds.
Viking at Lone Star Shootout
teams delivered a strong showing at the Lone Star Shootout in Port O’Connor, Texas, earning top finishes across billfish, tuna and specialty divisions, and once again proving their consistency and competitive edge on the Gulf Coast tournament circuit through standout performances in both release and heavy‑weight categories. The Viking 62 See‑Mah set the pace in the billfish categories, winning 1st Place in Blue Marlin Points with five blue marlin releases and adding a 2nd Place finish in Total Tournament Points with a mix of five blue marlin, one white marlin and four sailfish. The Viking 82 Mine Time also posted multiple podium finishes. The team placed 2nd in Blue Marlin Points with four blue marlin releases, earned 2nd in Heaviest Tuna with a 49.5‑pound fish caught by Joe Milazzo, and claimed Top Lady Angler honors thanks to Whitney Thomas‑Burns’ four blue marlin releases. In additional billfish results, the Viking 66 Loca Louise secured 3rd place in Blue Marlin Points with four blue marlin releases. Junior anglers also made their mark. The Viking 72 Blue Rush earned Top Junior Angler with three sailfish releases by Kohen Hurd. The meat‑fish divisions produced several standout catches. The Viking 58 Vamonos won Heaviest Dorado with a 27.5‑pound fish by Fischer Douglas, while the Viking 52 Wanted placed 3rd with a 24‑pound dorado caught by Bradon Hendricks. In the tuna category, the Viking 74 Wasted It finished 3rd with a 44‑pound fish caught by El May. The Viking 55 Marilee claimed the Heaviest Wahoo with a 34.5‑pound catch.
Wajer in Concert
For this year’s Wajer Owners Day, owners, friends and family came together in Saint-Tropez for Wajer in Concert. The fleet gathered off COMO Hotel Le Beauvallon for a three-course dinner served on board, while pianist Joep Beving turned the anchorage into an open-air concert. “Get everyone together somewhere beautiful and create an experience that everyone genuinely enjoys,” says Managing Director Dries Wajer. “Great boats, great food and great company.”
Wajer Ninth Owners Challenge
For the ninth Wajer Owners Challenge, Ibiza became the course. Teams took on seven challenges around the island, followed the live leaderboard and competed for the Wajer Golden Flagpole. “The Owners Challenge adds friendly competition to a day on the water, but bringing everyone together is what it’s really about,” says Dries Wajer. And yes, the Golden Flagpole has found a new home. Until next summer.
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