Viking Yacht Modern Models
The Modern Period saw a number of changes, starting with the passing of gas-powered boats for Viking after the late 1980s with only a rare stragler to 1990. In addition to the demand for more power, Viking also left behind the smaller models. The 35, 38 and 41 Convertibles were done. Even the 43 Convertible was discontinued in 2002, leaving the 45 as the smallest model, and that required diesels.
Interiors, always a strength at Viking, were improved further with even higher quality teak construction, quality fabrics, lighting and all aspects of interior design. Boat construction was improved largely due to improved construction techniques and materials. Viking moved to steel I-beams for motor mounts, cored floors and decks to control noise, improved window systems to eliminate the problems of earlier boats, and solid front windows on convertible models.
Express Models
Viking had built a number of Express Models in the past and offered two more in this period. Both were built on the same hull, engines and parts of the interiors as convertible models also in production. Viking also designed the interiors of these "Open" models with the same high quality teak components as their convertible models. Slightly lighter than the convertibles, but with the same engines, these models were a little faster, even when fitted with towers and outriggers.
45 Open
2003-2009. The 45 Open replaced the long successful 43 Open. This model offers just over a foot of additional beam, about 10,000 pounds and significantly more power. The bridgedeck offers three pedestal captain's chairs with the helm on the centerline. A large L-shaped lounge seats several more on the port side, with built-in refridge and icemaker on the starboard. The standard interior layout includes a single stateroom forward with a centerline queen berth, a single head with shower, comfortable saloon and galley. An optional layout includes a second stateroom with bunk beds which takes some room from the forward stateroom and some from the saloon. The cockpit, at 119 sq. ft. includes a freezer, bait prep area, and many other fishing amenities, plus a transom door. Access to the engine room is also provided from the cockpit. Engines are twin MAN diesels of 900 or 1100 HP on straight inboards.
50 Open
1999-2003. The 50 Open is designed on the 50 Convertible hull introduced a few years earlier. The large cockpit is 144 sq ft, and provides access to the engine room. The helm on the bridgedeck is located on center. Inside the master stateroom is in the bow with a walk-around queen berth and access to the master head with a stall shower. A second day head is located just inside the cabin door to limit cabin traffic while fishing. A complete galley in the saloon includes under-counter refridge-freezer, two-burner stove and Corian countertops. Like the later Convertible, power is twin Man diesels of 1050 HP producing almost 40 knots.
Flybridge Models
Viking didn't create revolutionary design changes to their flybridge convertible models, it was more an evolution of continuous improvement. Overall design changed gradually with the evolution of yachts to sleek models with greater angles. Market economies forced an end to the smaller models at Vikings quality level. This period was marked by market demand for larger more powerful engines, requiring stronger, heavier, faster hulls. Viking put as much emphasis on their interiors as they did on their mechanics. New gloss finishes on fine teak walls, cabinets and fixtures; corian countertops and fine fabrics all became standard.
45 Convertible
2003-2009. Viking's 45 Convertible replaced the 43 Convertible that had been successful for a decade. The 45 hull is 2 ft 10 in longer than the 43, and 13 inches wider. It's also 25% or 10,000 lbs heavier, but with 50% larger engines. An unusual interior layout limits the forward stateroom to the port half of the forward area, with bunk beds and direct access to the guest head. The Master Stateroom to starboard extends into the starboard half of the traditional forward stateroom space, and includes a private head fully forward. The saloon includes an L-shaped dinette in the forward port corner and an L-shaped galley forward to starboard with a free-standing island counter creating a walk-thru galley. The flybridge is large and extends aft to overhand the cockpit slightly. The cockpit is 119 sq. ft. and provides access to the engine room. Power is provided by twin MAN diesels of 800-900 HP producing speeds of 29-33 kts.
48 Convertible
2002-2009. The 48 Convertible was introduced to replace the 47 Convertible. The 48 is 1'10" longer than the 47, an even 1 ft wider, and 10,000 lbs heavier, with 50% larger engines. The interior layout is available with two or three staterooms. The master stateroom includes a centerline walk-around berth forward and is quite roomy on the two stateroom layout, or on the port side and smaller with three stateroom. All guest stateroom have bunk beds. The saloon includes a convertible corner lounge, U-shaped galley and opposing corner dinette. The cockpit is 130 sq. ft., well appointed, and provides engine room access. Power is provided by a wide assortment of diesels from 800-1050 HP producing 30-36 kts.
52 Convertible
2002-2009. The 52 Convertible was introduced as the first new model in a complete revamp of the Viking Yachts lineup. It replaced the 50 Convertible which had been very successful for more than 10 years. The 52 is fitted with larger MAN diesels and designed to go faster, with a sharper bow, redesigned hull and rudders. The cockpit, at 145 sq. ft., is fitted with all sportfishing amenities. Inside are three staterooms and two heads. The forward and port staterooms include walk-around queen berths, although bunks are optional forward, like the starboard stateroom. An enhanced U-shaped galley and nearby dinette share the main level with a comfortable lounge. The cockpit is 157 sq.ft. and well appointed for fishing. Power is provided by CAT and MAN diesels of 1015-1360 HP producing speeds to 40 kts.
55 Convertible
1998-2003. The 55 Convertible was created in the design of the 58 Convertible which was having a successful production at the time. Even the interior layout was almost identicle with the master stateroom amidships to port with a free-standing queen berth. A guest stateroom in the bow, also with a queen berth, and a second guest stateroom to starboard with bunk beds. The U-shaped galley and nearby dinette are located on the saloon level. The cabin is crafted of high quality teak and fabrics. Power was provided by twin diesels accessed from the cockpit, with 1150-1300 HP each, producing speeds up to 38 knots.
56 Convertible
2004-2009. The 56 Convertible was introduced to replace the 55 Convertible. It sports new styling similar to the lines on the 45, 48 and 52 Convertibles introduced the previous year. The 56 adds 18 inches to the length of the 55, 10 inches of beam, and about 10,000 lbs. Power is increased about 200 HP per engine. The cockpit is 157 sq.ft. and well appointed. The interior of the 56 includes three staterooms and two heads. The saloon includes a convertible corner lounge, U-shaped galley, and opposing corner dinette. The galley includes under-counter Subzero refridgerator and freezer, and 4-burner cooktop on granite countertops. Power is provided by MAN diesels of 1360-1550 HP producing speeds to 40 kts.
61 Convertible
2000-2006. The 61 Convertible, along with the 65 Convertible, extended the top end of the Viking line at the turn of the Millenium. The 61 Convertible followed on the long success of the 58 Convertible and would eventually replace it. The slightly increased size of 3 feet in length and only 2 inches of beam, provided enough extra space to offer flexibility in design. Both 3 and 4 stateroom versions were offered, as well as open and enclosed bridges, with interior spriral staircases on the enclosed bridge version. The helm is located forward on the enclosed bridge, while shifted aft in sportfishing style on the open bridge. Twin diesels of increased power from 1480-1825 HP were offered, producing speeds over 40 knots.
65 Convertible
1999-2006. The 65 Convertible reigns as Vikings largest during most of it's production. It makes four staterooms standard. The master stateroom amidships to port includes a king-size bed oriented athwartship. The forward stateroom includes a centerline queen berth. A guest stateroom to starboard contains bunk beds. The fourth stateroom, for crew, is immediately aft the master stateroom and down a few steps. It can optionally be configured as an office open to the master stateroom. As crew quarters it opens to the lower cabin area and also directly to the engine room, offering unique Power is provided by twin diesels of 1570-2000 HP, producing up to 39 knots.
72 Convertible
1997-2002. The 72 Convertible, introduced in 1997, would be the largest convertible built by Viking for more than 10 years. Displacing 120,000 lbs, the usual upper hull and topside coring is complemented by coring in selective areas below the waterline. Inside, accommodations include 4 staterooms and 3 heads. At the front of the saloon are a large U-shaped galley with breakfast island to port, and a large three-sided dinette to starboard, long against the wall. These are both up a step from the saloon, rather than down, as is sometimes seen. The 72 Convertible includes a large cockpit well equipped for fishing. Most boats are seen with an enclosed flybridge with inside, as well as outside, access. Accomodations include four stateroooms. A master stateroom with kingsize berth, forward stateroom with centerline queen berth, two guest staterooms with twin berths and bunk beds. A well equipped U-shaped galley and perhaps the largest U-shaped dinette seen will feed all aboard. Power is provided by twin Cat and other diesels of 1650-1825 HP, making 26-34 knots.
74 Convertible
2004-2009. The 74 Convertible when introduced was Viking's largest model ever, topping the then-largest 65 by nine feet. Viking delivered 45 of the Convertible and the Enclosed 74 over it's life. The cockpit of 218 sq.ft. includes serious fishing amenities, and mezzanine seating and storage. The large flybridge contains an island helm station with three captains chairs, and bench seating along both sides. Interior accommodations include 4 staterooms and 4 heads, with an optional, small fifth stateroom. The master stateroom, set amidship on the port side, is almost full-beam, with a walk-around king-size berth and private head. The companionway passes around it fully to starboard. The forward stateroom features a walk-around, centerline queen berth and private head. Bunk beds are provided in the guest stateroom and in the crews quarters, which has direct access to the engine room. The single-level saloon includes a corner dinette and U-shaped galley. Power is provided by MTU or CAT with 1520-2400 HP producing speeds to 39 kts.
Enclosed Bridge Models
The "Enclosed Bridge" models were created during this period. It is said the first such model was developed in response to a customer request. With some hesitation Viking took on the design. It was built on the 58 Convertible which had been in production for a number of years. The enclosed version proved immediately successful and Viking has never looked back. What is amazing is how right they got it the first time!
56 Enclosed Bridge
2007-2009. The 56 Enclosed Bridge is the smallest vessel the Enclosed Bridge design is offered on. Still, only minor concessions are made to size. The captain's chair is still on the centerline, but there is only one companion pedestal chair. The lounge seating on the bridge is a little smaller, and the cabinets are fewer. The biggest concession is the absence of an interior spiral staircase. Bridge visitors must use the external staircase. Other features are retained. Like all Enclosed Bridge models, the space is air conditioned and heated with reverse cycle cooling. The area is fully enclosed, carpeted and filled with interior seating. An docking station is located aft the enclosed bridge. Power is provided by MAN diesels of 1360-1550 HP.
58 Enclosed Bridge
1997-2001. The 58 Enclosed Bridge was the original Viking Enclosed Bridge. The concept said to be a customer request. It was designed and built on the successful 58 Convertible, which had been in production for several years. Early models are seen without an interior stair to the bridge. In later years an internal spiral stair is seen, although it is an open stairway, and fairly steep - although in fairness, this model is about the minimum size for an enclosed bridge, so space is limited. There also appear to be some design changes in the last year or two of production, especially in the saloon side windows which take on the newer shape. The enclosed bridge concept has been further developed over the years, usually on larger boats, but this original model is quite complete for an original, especially in this size. The helm is at the front of the enclosed bridge, on center, with fixed seats built in to the fixtures on either side. There is enough room for a second pedestal seat, and some are seen, which may be an option or a custom addon. A small docking helm is provided aft of the enclosed bridge, even on early models. Standard power remained Detroit 1080 HP diesels, but 1100 HP Mans, which were much lighter, were also offered.
61 Enclosed Bridge
2001-2005. The 61 Enclosed Bridge, together with the 65, followed the original 58 Enclosed Bridge model. These are slightly larger, more powerful boats, so there was room to design. The 61 Enclosed Bridge has the forward helm on centerline, as is common. Bench seats to either side of the captain's pedestal, but well separated, seated two observers each. These are well padded, leather in either black or tan. A large lounge seating area at the aft port corner is elevated slightly on a small platform for improved visibility. And a refridgerator, ice maker and wet bar provide refreshments. The small docking helm is located aft, outside the enclosure. Twin diesels of 1480-1825 HP were offered.
65 Enclosed Bridge
2001-2005. The 65 Enclosed Bridge together with the 61, followed the original 58 Enclosed Bridge model. The layout and materials of the 65 and the 61 Enclosed Bridges are almost identical, with only slightly more space for the 65, whose beam is about 7 inches wider, but there is an additional 4 feet in length. The enclosed bridge is noticeably larger, and primarily in lenth. The lounge seating is a little bigger, and the refreshment area is larger. Outside aft, the docking station is to starboard on the 65. This small helm can be very useful for fishing as well as docking. Power is provided by twin diesels of 1570-2000 HP, producing speeds almost as fast as the Convertible's 39 knots.
72 Enclosed Bridge
1997-2002. The 72 Enclosed Bridge, introduced in 1997, would be the largest enclosed bridge built by Viking for its life - replaced by the smaller 68. The 72 Enclosed Bridge is large enough to enable some design enhancements. Two pedestal chairs sit at the helm station, with additional bench seating to one side. There is plenty of lounge seating for other guests, as well as a complete refreshment station with wet bar. Aft, the usual docking station includes throttle controls on either side for easy docking to port or starboard. Power is provided by twin Cat and other diesels of 1650-1825 HP, making 26-34 knots.
74 Enclosed Bridge
2005-2009. The 74 Enclosed Bridge and the 74 Convertible were the top end of the Viking line for a few years. The bridge helm, overhead electronics and window frames are all black - either painted or wrapped in ultra-leather. The single centerline helm chair, is joined by bench seats for two on both sides - all in black leather. Leather lounge seating in brown or other colors, provide lots of seating, and teak cabinets complete the space. An overhead hatch can be opened for fresh air. A spiral staircase rises from the main level just behind the port bench seat. The flybridge structure has outdoor space aft of the enclosed bridge with aft-facing bench seating and ladder access from the cockpit, and docking controls.
Motoryachts
Viking continued to produce a number of motoryachts through the 1990s. They continued the combination of motoryachts and cockpit motoryachts. All were built on the 17'4" beam, sometimes called the 17'5" beam. All had the extensive Viking teak interior at the highest level. They also all had definite motoryacht flush-deck lines, rather than being modified sportfishing hulls. Performance of most models was excellent, approaching sportfishing speeds. Vikings long experience building convertible hulls also helped the performance of these motoryachts. And the construction quality was just as sound. Still, these would be the last motoryachts Viking produced. Whether because of their joint marketing agreement with Princess Yachts, producing the Viking Sport Cruiser line, or simply because they decided to focus on convertible sportfisherman, these were the last of a long line of Viking Motoryachts.
54 Sports Yacht
1992-2001. The 54 Sports Yacht, introduced in 1992, would have a long production and, with the related 60 Cockpit Motoryacht, would be the last Motoryachts built by Viking Yachts. It is a split-level three stateroom motoryacht with sportfisherman performance. The master stateroom aft includes a centerline queen berth with extensive teak cabinets and drawers, and a private head. The forward stateroom also includes a centerline queen berth and private head and shower. And a guest stateroom, also forward, includes bunk beds and a hallway head. A large U-shaped galley and L-shaped dinette are on the saloon level. This model includes some white wall surfaces and generous use of wall mirors, as well as traditional Viking teak work. The aft deck is up four steps from the saloon. Power is provided by twin Man diesels of 820-1200 HP, making 22-38 knots.
57 Motoryacht
1991-1995. The 57 Extended Aft Deck Motoryacht, to use the proper model name, replaced the ground-breaking 55 Motoryacht. The main level aft deck is open, rather than enclosed, although fully covered by the extended flybridge deck. The main deck is level from the aft deck through the saloon and galley to the separate pilot house, and even out the pilot house doors to the foredeck. The large U-shaped galley is opposed by a large U-shaped dinette, both set off from the saloon aft and the pilothouse forward like a railroad apartment. This model offers the master stateroom aft with a king berth and head, plus three staterooms forward with two queen berths and bunk beds, and two more heads. The interior decor is more bright white than most Vikings, including the all white galley. Some are seen with teak saloons and staterooms, other are all white. Power is provided by twin J&T Detroit Diesels of 730-760 HP making 15-23 knots - somewhat less than the power of later motoryachts of this era, but in line with traditional power.
60 Cockpit Sport Yacht
1994-2000. The 60 Cockpit Sport Yacht adds an aft cockpit to the 54 Sport Yacht. The interior layout is identical to the 54 Sport Yacht with three staterooms and three heads. Many of this model are seen with the optional hard-enclosed flybridge, which like the aft deck, is air conditioned by the bank of six A/C units onboard. The added aft cockpit is 70 sq ft of open space trailing a swim platform. This provides easy access to the water, an additional boarding option, space for fishing and lounging near water level. Molded seating on the front of the cabin provides foredeck usage. Power is provided by twin Man diesels of 820-1200 HP, making 22-35 knots.
65 Cockpit Motoryacht
1991-1994. The 65 Cockpit Motoryacht adds an aft cockpit to the 57 Extended Aft Deck Motoryacht to provide even more open space to this very open model. The main deck plan is level from end to end, identical to the 57 Motoryacht. A spiral staircase leads from the saloon to the flybridge, and another aft leads to the aft master stateroom hallway, where walk-in engine room access is provided and a utility room with washer and dryer and storage. But the main feature of this model is the sea-level aft cockpit - a 92 sq. ft. affair - accessed via a built-in staircase from the main-level aft cockpit, with storage and seating, plus access to a swim platform. Originally offered with 900 HP Detroit Diesel 12V-71TAs producing a 26 knot top speed, later production offered MAN Diesels of 1000-1050 HP.
65 Motoryacht
1991-1996. The 65 Motoryacht, and the related 72 Cockpit Motoryacht, were the largest motoryachts built by Viking Yachts. They would also be some of the last. Viking put extra effort into this model to control sound levels, which resulted in a very quiet motoryacht. Designed similar to the 57 Motoryacht introduced about a year earlier, this is a level main deck layout from bow to stern. The flybridge deck is extended fully aft to cover the enclosed main-level aft deck. In addition to the master stateroom aft, with a centerline king-size bed, there are three staterooms forward with a centerline queen berth in the bow, a guest stateroom with athwartships double berth, and a third stateroom with bunk beds. Original power was 950 HP MAN Diesels producing 25 knots. Later production included 1040 HP MANs.
72 Cockpit Motoryacht
1991-1994. The 72 Cockpit Motoryacht is the "Cockpit" version of the 65 Motoryacht. These two models superceded the earlier 63 Motoryacht and 70 Cockpit Motoryacht of the Classic Era. In addition to the open sea-level aft cockpit, the fordeck includes molded seating and ample deckspace, and the flybridge is open, although usually seen with a cover, and extends to the aft of the main deck. Engine room access is walk-in from the lower aft stateroom hallway. Power is provided by twin Detroit Diesels of 900-1080 HP producing speeds of 16-24 knots.