The origins of Valhalla Boatworks go back to the early 2000s. Don Gemmell, a close friend of Patrick Healey and a member of the Viking design team that still exists today, wanted to develop a Viking-quality boat in a smaller size. He mapped out a four-page business plan in 2003 for a line of outboard-powered center consoles from about 26 to 34 feet.

These boats would be built with the same high level of construction, engineering and craftsmanship as a Viking yacht. Don also suggested the creation of an independent company (with the same commitment and passion as Viking Yachts) that would design, build and sell the boats. “We were all excited about the project, but at the time the economy was turning for the worse and it got put on the backburner,” says Don.

Fast forward 10 years. Viking co-founder Bill Healey and his grandson Sean (Pat’s son) revived the idea and even began looking for a site in New Jersey to build smaller boats. Finding the right location proved very difficult at that time, but Sean and his brother Justin kept the dream alive.

At the Miami Boat Show in 2018, the Viking team met with yacht designer Michael Peters and began discussing a high-performance center console project using Michael’s patented double-stepped hull design. “We had worked closely with Michael on our motor yachts, and teaming up with him for the center consoles was a natural extension of that relationship,” says Pat. “The timing was right, and we were all very eager to build our own center console after all these years.”

In addition to Don and the Healeys, the Valhalla Boatworks team includes Viking Vice President of Design & Engineering Lonni Rutt, Design Manager David Wilson, Viking Mullica General Manager John Leek IV and Viking Southeast Sales Manager Ryan Higgins. This group – supported by Viking’s vast resources, advanced technology and experienced boatbuilders – is now focused on the production of the finest center consoles that money can buy.

“It’s an amazing accomplishment for everyone at Viking to see this come to fruition,” says Pat. “Valhalla Boatworks is a new chapter and a new milestone in the Viking Yacht Company’s storied history.”

Like the Viking fleet, the V-33, V-37, V-41, V-46, V-55 and the 55 Sport Yacht deliver unmatched performance, engineering, comfort, quality and fishing capabilities. The V Series center consoles thrive as hard-core fishing boats, fun family sport cruisers or luxury yacht tenders. The recently announced V-28 and V-29 will also provide unmatched capability and accommodations.

The V Series is the result of the cooperative effort of the Viking Design & Engineering team and Michael Peters Yacht Design (MPYD). The V Series utilizes MPYD’s patented Stepped-V Ventilated Tunnel running surface that reduces drag while increasing speed, stability and efficiency.

“It’s the most advanced and proven stepped-hull design in the world,” says Viking Design Manager David Wilson. “The twin steps and tunnel not only give you fast and efficient performance but also precise handling and a very stable ride.”

The design traits of Viking convertibles can be seen throughout these center consoles. Proud bows, gently sloping S-shaped sheers, double forward chines, helm pods, raised toe rails and mezzanine seating are some of the hallmarks. Viking engineering and mechanical prowess shine through, with customized Seakeeper installations that maintain storage or deck space and mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems designed and built to unprecedented levels. You’ll be hard pressed to find a center console with a higher level of fit and finish than a Valhalla.

The same resources of Viking’s vertically integrated company are at the disposal of Valhalla Boatworks owners, so standard and custom components and systems of each build such as hardtops, marlin or gap towers and electronics packages are being designed and installed in-house by our experienced shipwrights to guarantee turnkey delivery. Hardtop packages can be loaded with top-shelf components in flawless installations.

Valhalla Boatworks offers outboards from both Mercury and Yamaha in twin, triple or quad applications depending on the model. The efficiency of the stepped-hull design combined with the advanced outboard technology provide best-in-class speed, fuel economy and range. Low engine-noise and vibration levels, electronic power steering and optional joystick helm control systems with GPS station-keeping make operating your Valhalla an enjoyable, stress-free experience.

Bottom Line: Valhalla stands out as a truly unique fleet of center consoles in a market saturated with similarity.

The same company qualities that make Viking the No. 1 boatbuilder in the world and define “The Viking Difference” also apply to our new sister company, Valhalla Boatworks. The Valhalla Difference means V Series owners get the same innovation, engineering, performance and quality that you’ve come to expect from Viking. VBW utilizes the same strong domestic and international dealer network as Viking, and also has two additional dealerships in New Jersey and Florida – Valhalla Boat Sales North in New Gretna and Point Pleasant, New Jersey, and Valhalla Boat Sales South in Riviera Beach. The same renowned customer service resources that have set Viking apart from its competitors for decades are available to V Series owners. Valhalla Boatworks is an extension of the Viking Yacht Company, a true commitment to bringing more Viking enthusiasts into our family of happy owners.