OnBoard Magazine - Issue XI - Summer 2019

the best of everything. From the Healey’s on down to the guys on the production line—they are the best. It’s incredible. Building a boat with them is one of the most enjoyable things I’ve ever done.” When it came time to move up from the 48, it was 1992 and the luxury tax was taking its toll, wreaking havoc across the marine industry. Healey brothers Bob and Bill led an impressive counter against the luxury tax’s devastation, and eventually prevailed with full repeal of the tax. Working with Bluewater salesman Jud Black, Bill Page ordered a 58' convertible and it was likely one of the few yachts of that size built that year. Through the toughest of times, the relationship between Page and the Healeys grew stronger, and trust was simply going on one’s word. Jud Black recounts that time frame, “I think Bill really enjoys the fellowship, the brotherhood he’s built with the Healeys and the crew at Viking. That’s part of why he keeps coming back.” They soon built another 58, this time with an enclosed bridge. The family was dubious about it at first, but quickly came to see the benefits of the protected arrangement, especially as the family grew. LIVIN’ THE LIFE Bill and Mary Noel’s son and three daughters continue to boat with them, now with kids of their own joining in on the fun. Their fourth Viking, a 61' also featured an enclosed bridge and continued to deliver more of the best of everything. The children and grandchildren enjoy boating around the Chesapeake Bay, visiting Annapolis and also cruising up the coast to Newport and Nantucket. To ensure the utmost safety in their family adventures, Page even removed a bunk in one of the staterooms to accommodate a crib for his infant grandson who experienced his first visit to Newport at the age of 1-1/2. But the Page family wasn’t done yet. “I always say that if you want the latest Viking, you’re going to have to buy one every six weeks. They constantly incorporate all the latest technology and innovation and do it better every time.” Bill went to Jud Black once again and set out to build a 62 enclosed bridge. Bluewater’s service and refit experts in Hampton installed the teak mezzanine for his new boat. Once the boat was completed and back in Maryland, Mary Noel was able to apply the finishing touches with final decor, and all the necessities of home that men sometimes overlook. She too has enjoyed the togetherness of the family aboard the new boat. Page proved yet again just how enjoyable it is to build a boat with Viking and the Healeys by returning to the New Gretna facility with Bluewater’s Jud Black a sixth time to build their latest cruising masterpiece: a Viking 72 Enclosed Bridge. When asked why he chose to build a sixth new Viking, Bill replied, “I just wanted a new boat with all the latest stuff, the latest electronics, the latest design.” Or, maybe he just enjoys building boats with Bluewater and Viking! VIKING 72 ENCLOSED BRIDGE LOA: 72’ 8" Beam: 20’ 0” Draft: 5’ 9" Fuel Capacity: 2,594 gal. Water Capacity: 372 gal. Dry Weight: 129,700 lbs. Cockpit: 209 sq. ft. Power: Twin MTU 16V2000 M96L @ 2600hp each "If I couldn't have a Viking, I wouldn't have a boat." Noel's spacious mezzanine has been a favorite gathering place at many a Bluewater Summer Cruise 20 BLUEWATER