Phil Riise – CEO

A native son of Ballard, Phil Riise was born and raised in the heart of the Norwegian community and inherited the solid work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit of his Scandinavian ancestors.

Phil began his career in the marine industry in 1969 while still a student at Ballard High. A job at Sailboat Headquarters working as a boat detailer and rigger was the first step toward his destiny. Two years later, he started Riise Yacht Rigging and worked as an independent contractor for the next 3 years. In 1974, he made a decision that laid the foundation for his future. He accepted an offer to join Seaview Boatyard as a junior partner. Within six years, he was majority stockholder in the company. He took over from founders Roland Cooper and Bob Bergeson in 1977 and 1980 respectively and in 1987, assumed full ownership of the company. Today he is the working CEO of all three Seaview Boatyard locations and serves a coach and mentor to the managers and other members of the Seaview team.

A natural born problem solver, Phil has never shied away from a challenge, the more complex the better. Creativity and innovation are the fuels that feed his passion and keep him actively involved in operations at all of the Seaview locations. He is also an active member of the NMTA and lifelong industry advocate, working on behalf of the boating community and marine industry on critical issues including environmental, regulatory and government affairs. He is known throughout the marine community as a one-of-a-kind original with a charismatic personality, an infectious sense of humor and a huge heart.

Phil's passion for boating extends beyond the bounds Seaview Boatyard and dates back to his early days racing in the 1970s and a brief stint gillnetting on the Puget Sound. He has owned sail and motor vessels including a 36' sailboat, a 1932 38' Monk/Blanchard tri-cabin and a 48' Hansen NW cruiser. He has twice sailed down the Pacific Coast.

An avid sportsman, Phil's time away from the yards is most often spent pursing interests that include fly-fishing, golfing and tennis. He loves to spend time outdoors and enjoys camping and river rafting with his wife, Debbie and their two dogs, Decker and Cooper. Phil and Debbie are high school sweethearts who recently celebrated their landmark 45th wedding anniversary.