The New 62 Viking - First Photos Released

I just spent the day aboard Viking's newest yacht - the 62 Convertible. My impression? Wow!

This amazing new yacht is a totally fresh design from top to bottom. She is a sexy and curvaceous head-turner. There are lines and shapes that just get men's attention - you know, like those of Raquel Welch or Jennifer Lopez, depending on your generation. Viking tried to eliminate any straight lines with the 62 Convertible and succeed in creating a truly seductive mistress. She is good looking, but is there any substance beyond all that glitz and glamour?

I'm here to declare that the Viking 62 is a Bona Fide, Certified, Matt approved, Bad A** Convertible!

Really, this girl has the goods - consider these highlights;

* Fast - 43 knots with a pair of 1,925hp Cat C32As
* Efficient - 30 knots with a range over 500 nautical miles
* 4 staterooms - including a Master with His and Her Walk-in (almost) closets

* Huge Cockpit - 1 foot longer than the 70 Viking!
* Massive Galley - Island design with bar stools, 6 Subzero drawers, massive storage,
* Killer Engine Room - wide, tall (almost stand up at 6'), and smartly designed.
* Over-sized Flybridge - Island helm, 3 helm chairs, 2 settees, and forward seating - with plenty of room.

Full report to come in the next few days....

To see all the pictures, go to my website - http://www.62viking.com/photos/

Matt Condon, Viking Specialist at Galati Yacht Sales, mattc@galatiyachts.com, (850) 259-9900, www.vikingsforsale.com

The 92 Viking Yacht

Not so long ago, many experienced tournament skippers and anglers felt a boat over 70 feet was on the cusp of being too large to effectively compete on the tournament trail. But the Viking 74 Convertible launched in May 2004 proved differently. Fast forward to the fall 2008 when the launch of our 82 Convertible continued the upward trend demonstrating beyond any doubt that Viking hit another grand slam with its then new flagship. Now we approach the threshold of another amazing achievement, the Viking 92 Convertible, as we continue to lead the industry with new product and unrivaled innovation. Scheduled for a spring launch in 2014, the Viking 92 Convertible will be available in Open Bridge and Enclosed Bridge configurations.

This new boat has a stunning profile in either version with several motor yacht cues including dual mezzanine decks; one in the cockpit and the second on the main level after deck. The latter mezzanine offers both rear facing lounge seating, along with a second seating area and a table for al fresco dining. An outside galley and grilling area are included for added convenience and ambiance.

6 Staterooms, 6 Heads!

The yacht’s interior is a showpiece of elegance and luxury. The 23-foot beam not only opens the salon but transforms it into a majestic living room with built-in furniture and plush appointments like a 60-inch flat screen television that rises on a lift out of the teak cabinetry. An L-shape island in the galley complements the work area and all countertops feature custom selected granite. A pair of walk-in pantries and a full day head are forward and characterize an excellent use of space. Nearby, a formal dining area accommodates eight guests.

The 92 Convertible has six staterooms, each with its own private head and shower. The full beam master suite features a king size walk around bed, a walk-in closet, a dressing table, and his and her private facilities. Crew quarters are aft with access from the cockpit. The full beam area includes a head with a shower, a small galley area, and upper and lower berths in a private cabin.

Propulsion choices include offerings by Caterpillar and MTU. The communication, navigation and entertainment electronic package will be designed and installed by Viking sister company, Atlantic Marine Electronics. The first Open Bridge boat will have a tuna tower designed and fabricated by Palm Beach Towers, another Viking subsidiary. Selecting our subsidiaries for standard and optional accessories allows us to deliver the 92 Convertible turn key ready.

Contact Matt Condon, Viking Specialist at Galati Yacht Sales, (850) 259-9900 or mattc@galatiyachts.com

Visit: www.92viking.com or www.vikingsforsale.com 

Viking 92 Convertible

Preliminary Specifications

LOA                                       93 ft. 4 in.      28.45 m

LOA/w pulpit                         97 ft 4 in.       29.67 m

Beam                                      23 ft. 5 in.       7.03 m

Displacement (est)             195,000 lbs.         88,450  kg

Draft                                        5 ft. 10 in.       1.77 m

Fuel                                         4,000 gals.       15,141 l

Water                                          450 gals.      1,703 l   

The New Viking 62

Building a better boat every day is the philosophy that has guided the Viking Yacht Company for nearly a half century. During this period, new boats have been our mainstay positioning Viking as best in its class, with a stellar reputation for ground breaking innovation, envious performance and unimpeachable style. Beginning in 1964, combining drive and sweat equity, we clawed our way to the top of the mountain by introducing more than 70 models ranging from 33 to 92 feet. We like the view and our plan is to keep this position as we announce our newest Viking, the 62 Convertible.

Stronger and Lighter and Faster

The 62 Convertible is a showpiece in the Viking tradition with a fusion of leading edge engineering. To     optimize its strength to weight ratio, the composite cored hull is resin infused with a high modulus of Dupont’s Kevlar, carbon fiber and knitted fiberglass laminates selected to reduce weight while increasing the overall physical properties of the structure. Similarly, interior stateroom and hanging locker doors, as well as cabinet fronts throughout the yacht incorporate honeycomb coring for further weight reduction. As with all new Viking models each introduction is designed to set a higher performance standard in its class so the 62 Convertible also has recessed engine cooling water pickups, a refined propeller pocket entry to enhance flow to the five-bladed wheels for reduced noise with better traction, and modified architecture to the struts and rudders adding to an efficient and slippery running surface calculated to deliver speeds of up to 42 knots with a pair of Caterpillar C32-A engines rated at 1,925mhp.

Abundantly detailed, the profile of the 62 Convertible makes a powerful statement.  The unbroken sheer sweeps gracefully bow to stern. Nearly eight feet of freeboard at the bow along with the gentle crown on the flush foredeck is aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and increases the headroom in the forward stateroom. Our $1 million five-axis profiler milling machine used to create plugs to build molds helped to shape the molded toe rail, and the deep feature lines that wrap around the deckhouse and flying bridge. A newly designed engine room vent fascia with longitudinal fins give the boat the illusion of speed   even at rest, while keeping the machinery space dry and supplying a rush of combustion air. 

Entertain Island Style

Walking into the salon is a delight to the senses and your first impression will be that you are aboard a much larger yacht. With nearly 19 feet of beam, the expanse resembles a stately great room, lush with individually chosen planks of random, natural teak each one featuring a tight, fine grain that defines the area with sense of richness and custom appointments. A home theater system includes a 46-inch flat screen television, which rises from the teak cabinetry and an audiophile Bose system. The serving island, a Viking innovation, is topped with custom granite, as are all of the counters in the L-shape galley. The island is ideal for prepping meals at the dock or under way, and allows more freedom of movement throughout the area with two egress points.  Drawer-style under counter refrigeration and world class appliances will bring smiles to even the most demanding chefs.

A choice of three and four staterooms is available. In the three-stateroom plan, each one has a private head and fiberglass shower stall. In the four-stateroom layout, the two port staterooms share the port head. While all of the staterooms offer generous accommodations, including System #1 innerspring mattresses, excellent stowage and privacy, each has its own special take and is uniquely designed to maximize comfort and function. The forward stateroom offers a choice of a VIP layout with a queen size walk around berth, or crossover berths. The port stateroom has side-by-side berths and the fourth stateroom features upper and lower berths. The master stateroom is amidships with an athwart ships  queen-size walk around bed, an upholstered headboard, flanking night tables, a credenza, a 32-inch flat screen television,  and a pair of floor to ceiling maple-lined hanging lockers.

Captains Ask, Viking Delivers

The flying bridge mirrors other new generation Vikings with a center console helm station, three Murray Products pedestal seats with ladder backs, port, starboard and forward lounge seating with stowage beneath each one, a freezer and a chill box for drinks. Hull number two which premieres at the 2013 Miami Boat Show will feature our signature enclosed bridge that includes a spiral staircase from the salon to the bridge, along with a docking station on the aft deck. To accommodate the staircase in the salon the 62 Enclosed Bridge will utilize a U-shape peninsula galley similarly equipped as in the open bridge version.

The bi-level 172 square-foot cockpit is the result of thousands of hours on the tournament trail. On the upper level, another Viking innovation, the observation mezzanine is designed to keep guests cool and dry thanks to the flying bridge overhang, as well as clear of the crew working in the lower cockpit. Lifting the hinged seat lids beneath the Sunbrella cushions exposes a freezer, and engine room access. A lower level compartment stows bulky gear, while tackle drawers are built into a molded console to starboard. A refrigerated drink box doubles as the salon entrance step. The lower level cockpit is professionally equipped with flush rod holders, fresh and raw-water wash down systems, a transom fish box, rounded comings with indirect rope lighting below, side lockers for tag stick and gaff stowage, a quick disconnect fitting for oil changes for the engines, transmissions and generator, port and starboard in-deck insulated fish and stowage boxes, and stereo speakers to name just a handful of the standard features. The lazarette also has been prepped for the installation of a Seakeeper gyro stabilizer at the factory or a later date. 

Mechanically, the engine room is engineered for life at the 1,000 fathom line. Engine instrumentation is located at the entrance door. Bilge areas are painted with bright white Awlgrip for ease of maintenance. A Delta-T ventilation system provides clean, dry air for combustion, while suppressing water intrusion. A centralize sea-water system with a variable speed pump provides ample flow to multiple outlets for onboard needs including watermakers, icemakers, air conditioning, live wells and washdown system. A 27.5 kW Onan generator is standard and space is provided for a 21.5 kW Onan as a backup if desired. Climate control needs are met with a 58,000 Btu direct expansion and zoned air conditioning system. For turnkey delivery, we encourage you to enlist the services and products of our sister companies, Atlantic Marine Electronics and Palm Beach Towers for custom accessories

The Viking 62 Convertible represents the newest ground breaking champion in the history of the world’s largest and most copied manufacturer of convertible sportfishing yachts.

Viking 62 Convertible Specifications:

LOA                             63 ft. 1 in.           19.2 m

LOA w/pulpit               67 ft. 3 in.           20.5 m

Beam                            18 ft. 11 in.          5.8 m

Draft                               5 ft. 1 in.            1.5 m

Displacement                92,175 lbs.          41,810 kg

Fuel (standard)               1,800 gals.           6,814 l

Fuel (optional)               2,155 gals.           8,158 l

Water                                 302 gals.          1,143 l

Holding tank                      152 gals.             575 l

For more information contact: Matt Condon, Viking Specialist at Galati Yacht Sales, (850) 259-9900 or mattc@galatiyachts.com  www.vikingsforsale.com 

Incredible 3.75% Fixed Rate 20 Year Yacht loan

Word on the street is Bank of America is offering an incredibly low 3.75% fixed rate simple interest 20 year yacht loan. And, with the Miami Boat Show coming in mid-February I'm told that it will be lowered for the show. In my 25 years of selling boats I have never seen (nor will we ever see again) such a low rate on a simple interest, fixed rate yacht loan. 

The 66 Viking Yacht

Viking has been the marine industry’s pace setter for nearly five decades. It has achieved this lofty role through hard work, innovation and dedication to excellence with its skilled and talented workforce guided by an experienced management team that has no equal in the realm of marine manufacturing. Keenly focused on today and tomorrow, looking forward and beyond is the philosophy that keeps Viking’s closest competitors bobbing far astern. Driving the industry with such momentum it comes as no surprise for every new Viking introduced, our in-house design and engineering teams have other models waiting for their turn in the spotlight.

Sharing the sleek, aggressive stance of its new generation siblings, the profile of Viking 66 Convertible bespeaks power, speed and grace. The yacht’s interior is an expansive display of hand finished teak joinery with beyond custom quality workmanship including natural veneers that reveal warmth of beauty and detail rich in opulence.

4 Staterooms, Smartly Designed

In the salon, your senses are delighted with a spacious layout that is both luxurious and practical for tournament campaign living, as well as cruising for a month at a time, or longer. Space is conveniently appropriated for dining, cooking and relaxing with generous accommodations for all. Viking benchmarks abound including a granite-topped island with 360 degree egress, bar stools and under counter refrigeration in the galley opposite a roomy dinette. Aft, an L-shaped sofa with abundant stowage below is strategically placed to enjoy the sights and surround sound details from the 40-inch flat screen television that rises from the teak cabinetry. Special touches include a galley pantry forward with standing headroom, deep-pull-out drawers in the galley, and a day head aft conveniently placed immediately inside the electric opening fiberglass salon door.

Below, four staterooms, each with its own head and fiberglass shower stall teem with restful space with large, comfortable spring mattress berths for comfort and privacy. The master suite with its queen plus size berth flanked with end tables, and his and her maple-lined hanging lockers is particularly inviting. Cleverly designed crew quarters include private access to and from the engine room. Note, too, that the offset companionway is thoughtfully designed to maximize traffic flow to the staterooms and laundry center, which includes a nearby linen closet.

Tournament Vision at the Helm

The flying bridge is a proven tournament design featuring a center console helm with electronic controls, superb visibility, plus amenities that include Murray Products teak ladder back helm seats, port, starboard, and forward lounge seating, refrigeration, and an Atlantic Marine Electronics’ navigation and communication package. Viking’s winning ways on the tournament circuit also are incorporated in the 174 square-foot cockpit with an observation mezzanine protected from wind and spray by the flying bridge overhang, refrigeration and freezer space, tackle and gear stowage, insulated wells for fish and bait, a transom door with lift gate, rounded coamings, under gunwale stowage, and a nonslip fiberglass sole. 

The Viking 66 Convertible also is available with a climate controlled enclosed bridge helm station accessed from the salon via a teak spiral staircase. The enclosed bridge offers the convenience and comfort of an L-shaped lounge on a raised floor to provide better visibility for guests while the boat is under way and at the dock. Teak joinery, a teak cocktail table on a fixed pedestal, a refrigerator with an ice maker, a 19-inch flat screen television and a stereo system with a CD/DVD create the ambiance of a second, more intimate salon. Additional practical amenities include reverse-cycle air conditioning, a telephone outlet and a central vacuum system.

The helm area is forward to deliver maximum visibility for the operator. The raised dash and visor are wrapped in black ultra-leather to reduce glare. Single-lever electronic controls, an adjustable black Stidd helm seat with a footrest, a starboard companion jump seat with stowage below, windshield wipers and washers, defoggers, a stainless-steel destroyer type steering wheel and a large stowage area beneath the helm are among the many standard features.

A second control station is located on the starboard side of the aft deck adjacent to the locking and weatherproof fiberglass door for docking and fishing maneuvers. The pod style helm includes single-lever controls, engine start/stop switches, a stainless steering wheel and room for electronics. A fiberglass seat with removable cushions and stowage below is to port. Exterior safety railing, including a ladder to the bridge from the mezzanine deck and a second ladder to the bridge roof through a hatch are powder-coated aluminum.

Fast & Stability, Smooth & Efficient – Wow!

The new Viking 66 Convertible also benefits from advanced engineering and construction materials that deliver better performance, increased strength and reduced weight. The hull bottom is vacuumed-bagged end grain balsa skinned with high-tech knitted fiberglass laminates. Composite main engine room and forward bulkheads also are vacuumed-bagged. The molded fiberglass salon floor/engineroom ceiling is foam cored to provide thermal and acoustical insulation. Interior teak cabinetry doors are cored for weight savings and stiffness.

Mechanically, the Viking 66 Convertible is equipped to live large in the wild. Viking’s proprietary VIPER power-assisted hydraulic steering features programmable independent rudders. At flank speeds the 66 Convertible will turn in two boat lengths with your fingertips on the wheel. The Delta-T engine room ventilation system uses thermostatically controlled supply and discharge fans for proper air circulation and water intrusion suppression. Pneumatically controlled air intake dampeners are integrated with the fire suppression system for added safety. An Octoplex touch screen power distribution system controls all AC/DC requirements at the salon main panel and at the helm on the flying bridge. Manually operated back-up systems are conveniently located throughout the yacht. When combined with its MTU V16 Series 2000 M91 engines, the new 66 C will provide 40 plus knot performance with horsepower to spare for better efficiencies and longer range than its competitors. Standard power is MAN V12 1550 CRM diesels. Engine packages are custom matched with S-class propellers to enhance performance and efficiencies.

Like all Viking yachts, you can specify our sister companies Atlantic Marine Electronics and Palm Beach Towers for total customization and turnkey delivery of the 66 Convertible.

Viking 66 Convertible Specifications:

Length overall (LOA)               66 ft. 7 in.         20.3 m

Length overall (inc. pulpit)       70 ft. 11 in.         21.6 m

Beam                                          19 ft 1 in.            5.8 m

Draft                                            5 ft 5 in.             1.7 m

Transom deadrise                         11.4 degrees

Displacement                               102,875 lbs.            46,663  kg

Fuel (standard)                               2,015 gals.               7,628 l

Fuel (optional)                                2,265 gals.               8,574 l

Water                                                 340 gals.               1,287 l   

For more information, contact Matt Condon, Viking Specialist at Galati Yacht Sales, (850) 259-9900 or mattc@galatiyachts.com  www.vikingsforsale.com 

The All New 55 Viking Convertible

With an unprecedented industry track record of new boats, the Viking Yacht Company is making waves again with the all new 55 Convertible. With a boat building heritage that spans almost five decades of uninterrupted family owned operation, history has plenty of opportunities to repeat itself. Such is the case of the new 55 Convertible. It was during the 1997 Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show when Viking first introduced a 55 Convertible to rave reviews for its styling, performance and tournament pedigree. Viking would build over 153 of these ground breaking convertibles, which became the most popular boat in its class of that decade. With this new generation 55 Convertible it appears this introduction is in fine company.

With every one of its premieres, Viking pushes the evolutionary envelope and this new 55 Convertible showcases timeless style, long the trademark of the company’s fleet that ranges from 42 to 92 feet. Sleek and sporty with nary a straight line in evidence the 55 Convertible’s profile is constantly in motion bow to stern from the aggressive rake at the stem to the gentle crown of the transom. In between, the metallic black windshield mask and molded feature lines in the flying bridge and deckhouse accent its fluid proportions with eye-pleasing devotion.

A Better Boat Everyday

Since 1964, every Viking has been built on the foundation of building a better boat everyday. From every boat comes lessons learned that are commuted to the next boat on the line. This commitment to excellence allows each boat to be a showpiece in its own right enhancing overall performance and inherent value. The new 55 Convertible benefits from this long standing tradition and the proof is evident the moment you enter the roomy salon through the fiberglass sliding door in the cockpit. The William Bales and Company interior is like being on the pages of Architectural Digest. An L-shaped lounge to port has rod and general stowage underneath and is perfectly situated to view the 42-inch flat screen television, which overlooks a spacious dinette opposite the galley. Together, these features meld a most inviting interior ideal for relaxing, entertaining or campaigning on the tournament trail for weeks at a time. Built into the galley island with dual egress are Sub-Zero refrigeration and freezer units, while comfortable bar stools add useful and stylish practicalities. Viking craftsmanship and signature joinery work is evident throughout the salon, which features random teak varnished with a high gloss or satin finish for a rich, better than custom ambience.  Abundant stowage is a given, yet the 55 Convertible takes this feature to the next level with honeycomb cored doors to help shed unnecessary pounds for speed and efficiencies under way. Similarly, granite surfaces utilize a strong, lightweight core for earthen beauty minus weight.  A peninsula galley counter also is available, which adds additional refrigerator capacity.

Below, the three-stateroom, two-head layout maximizes the use of space for comfort and privacy. The master and forward staterooms each have queen-size berths with custom inner-spring mattresses and private access to the heads with spacious fiberglass shower stalls with built in molded seats. Crossover berths also are available in the forward cabin. The port stateroom features side-by-side berths with private head access. The washer and dryer in the companionway are conveniently complemented with a nearby spacious linen locker.

Style, Speed, & Substance

Every Viking benefits from its tournament proven heritage and the new Viking 55 Convertible comes to the party dressed like a blue-water champion. The flying bridge with its center console command station features power-assisted hydraulic steering, single-lever electronic controls, and electronic trolling valves. Electronics stow neatly beneath clear acrylic panels, protected from the most severe conditions yet always within an easy glance. A Moritz safety monitor includes visual and audible alarms for ship and engine systems. A pair of Murray Products teak ladder back helm seats on polished stainless-steel pedestals is standard. Additional seating can be found forward of the helm console and adjacent on port and starboard lounges, each with removable jump seat backrests and rod stowage below. A sink with fresh water and an insulated drink box add creature comforts and cruise conveniences.

Every inch of the 151 square-foot cockpit earns its keep with form that follows function. The flying bridge overhang provides shade and spray protection over the observation mezzanine. Built into the mezzanine deck, which features custom Sunbrella cushions is a freezer, stowage compartments, tackle space, a step-box cooler and engine room access. The lower level cockpit is fish ready with raw and fresh water wash-down systems, four flush rod holders, in-deck fish, and stowage boxes, convertible to an available live well or ice chipper container, a molded transom box, side locker stowage for tag sticks and gaffs, rounded comings, a molded nonslip sole,  and a walk-through transom door with lift gate.

Mechanically, the new Viking 55 Convertible is peerless in construction and performance. Viking’s industry innovative powder-coated engine beds secured to dedicated intermediate bulkheads isolate torque and vibration to reduce engine noise and ensure drive-train alignment. All bulkheads including these as well as the main engine room and forward bulkheads are vacuumed-bagged with composite materials for strength and durability. Custom high-speed stainless-steel rudders utilize composite drip-less seal rudder bearings that are laminated into the hull for smoother handling easily discernable at the helm. The Delta-T engine room ventilation system incorporates supply and discharge fans for proper air supply and water intrusion suppression. A comprehensive gauge package, plus remote engine start/stop switches are accessible immediately inside the engine room access door. In addition to high capacity bilge pumps, clean out pumps in the keel area, plus additional condensate pumps for the air conditioning and refrigeration systems help keep the bilge dry. All bilge areas are sealed with Awlgrip coatings for visibility and easier maintenance, as are brass thru-hull fittings in the engine room, lazarette and forward bilge areas. Prop pockets help to reduce draft and there is a transducer location molded into the solid reinforced keel for better discrimination in all sea states. A 21.5 kW Onan genset is standard.

Several engine packages from MAN and Caterpillar with horsepower ratings from 2,720 mhp to 3,600 mhp are offered with the new Viking 55 Convertible. Hull number one features a pair of the new MAN V12 1550 CRM engines rated at 1,550 mhp each. With standard fuel (1,414 gallons) and fully loaded with owner gear and equipment the Viking 55 Convertible cruises at  34.8  knots with a top end of 41 knots. And, with the 1,800 MANs, the speed is unbelievable!

As with all Viking yachts, the new Viking 55 Convertible can be ordered with complete Atlantic Marine Electronics navigation and entertainment packages, and tuna towers and other specialty aluminum and fiberglass fabrications from Palm Beach Towers. Utilizing Viking’s subsidiaries AME and PBT means your new Viking will be delivered turnkey ready.

Viking 55 Convertible

Specifications

LOA, (length overall)            56 ft 5 in.                   17.20 m

LOA, (w/bow pulpit)             60 ft. 3 in.                  18.36 m

Beam                                      17 ft. 9 in.                    5.41 m

Transom deadrise                   11.8 degrees

Draft                                         5 ft. 1 in.                    1.55 m

Displacement                         77,700 lbs.                 35,244 k

Fuel, (standard)                       1,414 gals.                  5,353 l

Fuel, (optional)                       1,619  gals.                  6,129 l

Water                                         225 gals.                      852 l

For more information, contact Matt Condon, Viking Specialist, Galati Yacht Sales, (850) 259-9900 or mattc@galatiyachts.com  www.vikingsforsale.com

The 54 Viking Yacht

Viking Yachts 54 Convertible

With breathtaking lines and stellar performance from powerful common-rail MAN diesels, the Viking 54Convertible proudly carries the company banner to “build a better boat everyday” to even loftier heights.   Viking has scored more home runs in the 42 to 82 foot class than any other manufacturer and the cutting edge 54 Convertible has grand slam written all over it.

Like all Vikings, this boat started with a clean sheet of paper and a host of smart ideas garnered from sales and customer input, as well as from thousands of hours racked up by our Viking demo teams on the tournament trail.

Style Maven

 The 54 Convertible is beautifully proportioned, featuring a consortium of elements that give it both a modern appearance with a familiar eye-pleasing look that is germane to its stable mates. The stem has an aggressive rake to cut through head seas effortlessly. At almost 18 feet, the beam allows for a massive foredeck to create ample room to mount a dinghy or flats skiff on the bow, while providing amazing accommodations below in the three staterooms and two heads. The house rises smoothly from the deck like an ice sculpture and pertinent details abound, like the engine room vents, which casually mirror the salon windows. Overall, the 54’s profile is nothing less than stunning.

Below the surface, it is all about form following function. Propeller pockets reduce the draft and create efficiencies by lowering the prop shaft angle for better engine response. An underwater exhaust system keeps the cockpit clear of fumes, the transom free of diesel dust and helps deliver quiet power from idle to full throttle loads. Transom deadrise is 15-degrees, which provides a superb combination of sea keeping characteristics with an easy to plane hull. The hull skin features a blister resistant modified epoxy resin for long-term durability in the marine environment.

Tournament Class

The Viking 54 is in excellent company and comes to the offshore fishing wars with the ammunition to earn a place at the Winner’s Circle. The 160 square-foot cockpit is all about winning efficiently. Molded non-slip on the cockpit sole provides sure footing even when wet and large scuppers drain water quickly. A walk-through transom door with a lift gate takes the work out of boating trophy fish. But when you are in release mode, the three-foot reach to the waterline means you can turn a billfish loose in heartbeat and get a fresh bait back out seconds later. Stand-up anglers and crew will appreciate the rounded cockpit comings when tangling with stubborn fish. Flush rod holders, recessed stainless-steel hawse pipes and cleats keep the cockpit clear for action. Simply put, if you lose a fish aboard this ride, it will not be the boat’s fault.

A mounting plate laminated into the sole will anchor the mightiest fighting chair. Hatches to the lazarette and to the insulated fish and stowage wells are finished on both sides and supported with stainless-steel gas struts. Locking hatch pulls and heavy-walled gaskets seal out spray and wash down water.

Next to the fighting chair, the observation mezzanine pioneered by Viking offers the second best seat in the cockpit. The flying bridge overhang provides sun and spray protection and the cushioned seats are comfortable for watching baits and waiting out the fish. Beneath the seats there is tackle and gear stowage, a bait freezer and engine room access. An anodized aluminum ladder with nonslip treads provides secure, fleet egress to the bridge. Nearby in the salon step, an insulated drink box means no one goes thirsty and no one need miss any of the action in the cockpit.

Command Bridge

Displacing over 37 tons, the 54 Convertible will never win a weight savings competition with some backyard built day boat. But when you are fishing 100 miles offshore and the wind starts to blow hard enough to fling the tops of the waves over the bridge enclosure you can look at your watch and assure the crew they will not be late for dinner or miss the kids’ soccer game. The minute you get behind the helm you can the feel the weight as it crushes through head seas like you are stepping on grapes.

Electronic engine controls in the custom helm pod deliver hair-trigger response and the power-assisted hydraulic steering matched to stainless-steel high-performance rudders assures uncanny maneuverability to out dance a tail walking sail or make a giant bluefin see a boat keel for the first time in its life.

The center line helm provides wonderful sight lines for fishing, reading skinny Bahama waters or backing into a tight slip at a crowded marina on a busy New Jersey summer weekend. Electronics stow safely beneath clear acrylic panels in raised fiberglass pods, so navigation information is available in any weather condition. This smart design also provides a sizable compartment underneath the helm and makes servicing the electronics practically a day at the beach. A Moritz safety monitoring system tracks critical engine and ship status with audible and visual alarms. Twin Murray Products teak ladder back helm seats supply ample comfort for the long rides and guests will enjoy the forward and port lounges with stowage below for rods and other tackle. There is room for a chill box to refresh the crew without leaving the bridge and a port jump seat is prime location for spotting tailing sailfish in the wake. Specify Viking’s sister companies, Atlantic Marine Electronics and Palm Beach Towers for your equipment rigging needs and your Viking 54 Convertible can be delivered turnkey ready.

Coastal Living

A molded fiberglass sliding door leads to the spacious salon. Immediately inside the doorway to port is an eye level electrical distribution panel for ease of operation. Teak joinery fills the area with richness and detail. Air conditioning flows quietly from the valances for comfortable cooling and thorough distribution. An L-shaped lounge to starboard features stowage below, while a hi-lo teak cocktail table adds versatility. Above the dinette, a 42-inch flat screen television with surround sound is ideally situated to be viewed throughout the salon.

The galley is U-shaped for maximum efficiency and features Corian countertops, under-counter Sub-Zero refrigeration, a microwave/convection oven, an electric cook top, in-sink garbage disposal, a water tank gauge, Amtico brand vinyl flooring, an electrical sub panel and loads of stowage space for dinner and cookware, groceries and supplies.  To complement the starboard dinette, a pair of bar stools with upholstered backs is included by the aft galley counter.

Comfort Zone

The three-stateroom two-head layout includes a master suite to port with a walk-around queen berth flanked with teak night stands and a credenza to port. A 20-inch flat screen television is mounted above a second credenza. A generously proportioned maple-lined hanging locker accommodates a sizeable wardrobe.

The forward stateroom comes standard with a queen berth, but also is available with upper and lower berths. Both plans offer plenty of stowage and hanging locker capacity. The starboard stateroom starboard stateroom has upper and lower berths crisscross berths along with a good amount of locker space.  Each of the three staterooms is fully carpeted, has stereo controls and speakers, overhead Halogen and rope lighting throughout.

The heads feature Amtico brand vinyl flooring, one-piece fiberglass shower stalls, and medicine cabinets with mirror doors, exhaust fans, air conditioning and electric MSD with holding tank and overboard discharge capabilities.

Engineered to Live Large in the Wild

No other boat builder invests as much as Viking in research and design. For proof, start with our new $1 million five-axis-profiler, the largest of its type in the marine industry, this was used to produce numerous mold parts incorporated into the manufacturing of the yacht.

The stand-up engine room features Viking’s leading edge powder-coated web-frame structural steel engine beds. These are mounted to dedicated transversals for vibration free engine and drive-train alignment. With standard power, the Viking 54 Convertible will have a cruise speed of 31 knots and with optional power will top out at speeds approaching 40 knots depending upon load, sea state and boat condition.

Standard fuel capacity is 1,445 gallons in Viking made fiberglass tanks, which are designed to mirror the hull bottom to provide maximum draw. Additionally, the tanks, (including water and waste) are then secured into place with fiberglass adding to the strength and structure of the hull. Fuel capacity can be increased to 1,745 gallons for additional range.

For stability and sea keeping ability, the running surface features a convex deadrise shape matched to an aggressive entry with sharpened waterline sections. The convex deadrise adds curvature and form to the hull bottom, which increases the lifting motion in a seaway. Upon re-entry, the hull meets the water softly to enhance the ride and overall comfort.

The hull is cored with end-grain balsa and the bottom is vacuumed-bagged to hand-laid fiberglass laminates. Through-hull areas including struts, shaft logs and water intakes penetrate solid fiberglass. All overboard discharge through-hull fittings are manufactured of fiberglass to eliminate corrosion potential.

The Viking Difference

Family owned and operated for almost five decades, Viking is unique in the marine industry. Vertically integrated, virtually 90 percent of a Viking is manufactured in-house. Viking even designs and builds its own molds. Debt free, we only answer to ourselves and are able to deliver what it arguably the best riding, best performing convertible yacht in the world. But even that is not enough for us. Viking also is the only manufacturer with a full-service satellite facility in South Florida staffed by Viking trained technicians solely for the convenience of Viking Yacht owners.

Matt Condon, Viking Specialist, Galati Yacht Sales, (850) 259-9900, mattc@galatiyachts.com - www.vikingsforsale.com 

Pro Agent

Pro Agent

The benefits of a Buyer’s Broker

by Matt Condon

Are you in the market for a pre-owned Viking Yacht? Perhaps you should consider working with a buyer’s agent. Virtually all pre-owned Vikings are offered for sale through listing agents on the primary website – yachtworld.com. These agents have a fiduciary relationship with the seller. By law they must work in the seller’s best interest. True, most good brokers try to be fair to all parties. But, only a buyer represented by a Buyer’s Agent is contractually assured his agent will look out for his best interests, exclusively.

How it works -

A buyer enters into a representation agreement with a Buyer’s Agent who has expertise in the size and type of boat they are considering for purchase. The agreement typically lasts for 120 – 180 days and includes a good faith deposit held in the Broker’s escrow account. The Buyer Agent’s fee is paid from the seller’s commission through a standard co-brokerage arrangement with the listing agent. This is similar to a normal two broker transaction except the buyer broker is bound by contract to work in the buyer’s best interest at all times. There are no extra costs to the buyer to be represented by a buyer’s agent.

The next step is to find the perfect boat. Instead of a prospective buyer calling around and speaking with various listing agents or having a friendly broker call around, a Buyer’s Agent handles all the communication with the listing agents. The agent presents vessels that have been pre-screened to meet the needs of the purchaser. Offers are then made using a purchase agreement written in the buyer’s best interests and using the buyer broker’s escrow services. At no time does the buyer’s deposit get put “at risk” until the buyer specifically accepts the vessel after all due diligence and inspections.

A Buyer’s Agent will use his expertise and intimate knowledge of the market to negotiate the best deal for a purchaser. Working with a large and well respected brokerage house like Galati Yacht Sales can help smooth out any waves and lead to a successful purchase. Access to Galati Yacht’s well earned reputation to service after the sale in included with every purchase.

The Buyer’s broker will use his best efforts and expertise and that of a reputable surveyor to determine if the boat is suitable. Unlike a listing agent, who will only earn a commission if you buy this particular vessel, a buyer’s agent knows a commission will be earned no matter which boat the buyer accepts so there is no bias to purchase one over the other.

If you would like to learn more about hiring me as your Pro Agent, please contact Matt Condon (850) 259-9900 or mattc@galatiyachts.com  Visit www.facebook.com/vikingsforsale/