Viking Yachts 46 Billfish

SUMMARY

The Viking 46 Billfish is, in many ways, the ultimate sportfishing boat for the private owner. Don't get us wrong, there is freedom in having the ability to target fish that require hours of running in a 72 Convertible. The 46 Billfish is essentially a paired down version of these larger yachts, but without as much required preparation to fish hard. Center-console owners love the ability to walk out to their dock, load up for the day, and be off in a matter of minutes. While center-consoles are indeed a lot of fun to own, there are limitations. With the Billfish series, Viking aimed to take the ease of operation of a center-console and combine it with the accommodations, amenities, and fishing capabilities of a sportfish. Now with the 46, Viking indeed has created the optimum toy for the fishing and cruising enthusiast who wants a fast, good handling, comfortable sportfish for a variety of boating options.

Below, watch a detailed walk-through of the 46 Billfish by John Leek, manager of Viking Mullica.

The exterior of the 46 Billfish has all the hallmarks of the great, classic billfish series boats that were so popular years ago. The deep-v bow, raised command center with center-line helm, and a wide cockpit that provides plenty of room for multiple anglers. This is certainly a nod to the Ocean Yachts Billfish which used to be built in the same factory the 46 Billfish is now assembled. Viking has now acquired the old Ocean plant which is just over 10 miles from the main Viking shipyard in New Gretna. Viking re-named the factory "Viking Mullica" and now builds its under 50-foot sportfish and Valhalla center-consoles here.

The cockpit on the 46 is 140-square feet, larger than its sibling the 38 Billfish at 109 square feet, and features Viking's very popular mezzanine seating. You will also find refrigerated drink storage by raising the mezzanine step on the starboard side, as well as extra storage, a thoughtful use of space by the Viking team. Some of the fishing-friendly features in the cockpit include:

• Cockpit bait freezer with an upper tray
• Insulated fish boxes in the deck that also include drainage
• Walk-through transom door
• Live-well
• Rod Holders
• More tackle storage
• Fresh and Sea Water wash-downs
• Laminated in-deck mounting plate for a fighting chair or table installation

Moving up to the command deck, owners and guests will appreciate the climate-controlled lounge around the helm which has the option to be entirely enclosed. The seating area is almost like an outside salon with a big U-shaped lounge, a couch along the starboard side, and a table. The tournament-style helm is walk-around, has the Palm Beach-style controls, power-assist hydraulic steering, and Release Marine teak chairs.

"Driving the 46 Billfish is simply awesome," said Jay Hendrix, Vice President of SI Yachts. "You can see everything from the helm, you're going about 40 knots at full throttle, and the boat will turn on a dime when you want it to. Incredible. It's the same Viking ride and style of the bigger convertibles, just smaller."

While the standard propulsion is a set of twin Cummins QSM11 715 MHP, owners may want to opt for the upgraded twin MAN I6-800 CRM 800MHP engines. The engine room on the 46 Billfish is also surprisingly spacious for this size boat and is painted with Snow White Awlgrip for easy servicing. Many of the same engine room features found on the larger models are included on the 46 Billfish such as the Delta-T engine room ventilation system.

Where the Viking 46 Billfish really separates itself from the 40-50 foot center-consoles on the market is with its luxury accommodations. In true Viking fashion, the interior is bathed in high-gloss teak cabinetry for an incredibly rich look. The air-conditioned cabin has Amtico flooring, a well-equipped galley, and a private head that's found immediately inside the companionway. Here are a few of the features in the interior of the 46 Billfish:

• Corian countertops in the galley
• Two-burner electric stove
• An abundance of storage opportunities for food and other items
• Microwave/Convection oven
• Drawer-style refrigerators hidden underneath the counters
• Built-in ice maker

There are two cabins for sleeping inside including a spacious master found forward that has an island queen-sized berth. Drawers for storage can be found under the mattress and additional cabinets line the walls. A flat screen tv is mounted to the wall. Adjacent to the master cabin is a second guest cabin with over/under bunk beds.

Overall, the 46 Billfish is easy to handle, fun to drive, and comfortable for everyone on board. Owners can have the confidence and peace of mind that it has Viking's durability and reliability. The Viking team at SI Yachts looks forward to helping you find the right sportfish or motor yacht to fit your boating plans and needs.

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