WRITTEN BY: Frank Bongiorno
Aug 06, 2018 
"Build a better boat every day". That is the work ethic mantra that is engrained into every employee at the Viking Yachts factory in New Gretna, New Jersey that started many years ago with founders Bill and Bob Healey. Chances are if you're a Viking owner, you have heard it too. With Viking set to launch 3 new Convertible models in 2018 - the 68C, 58C, and 44C - Viking may as well change their motto to "Launching a new boat every day." It wasn't but a few years ago that Viking CEO Pat Healey made the announcement that the company would invest more than $50 million into new design equipment and capital for several new models to be built. Healey and team made good on their pledge by purchasing multiple CNC routers for cutting composite and wood parts as well as a $1 million five-axis profiler, which creates foam plugs to build complex models. Combined with their talented craftsman at the factory who have been doing this for generations, Viking has a clear advantage of every other yacht manufacturer in the world.
We also recommend that you read "Your Resource Guide To Owning a New Viking Yacht", particularly if you are considering a Viking for your first boat purchase.
(Pictured below is a plug for a new Viking created by the five-axis profiler) 
From this investment and countless hours of listening to customer feedback, the fruits of Viking's labors have now started to become available. Viking will launch 4 new models in 2018 including the 68 Convertible, 68 Enclosed Bridge, 58 Convertible and the 44 Convertible (the 44 debuted at the Yachts Miami Show in February). "Viking has taken years of customer feedback and experience fishing their yachts in major billfish tournaments and really perfected the ownership experience," said SI Yachts Vice President Jay Hendrix. "4 new models this year from 44 to 68 feet gives us a wide range of new product that our clients are very excited about. There really is no better built sportfish in the world." While the 44C has already been launched, anxious Viking fans will have to wait until either the VIP Event in September or the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in early November to climb on board.
The Viking Yachts 68 Convertible (68C):
Viking has absolutely dominated the Sportfishing industry in recent years, particularly in the 50 to 70-foot range of Convertibles. Prepare to be impressed when Viking launches the all-new 68C. Just went you thought Viking couldn't possibly improve on a design, they surprise us yet again with a 68-footer in both Convertible and Enclosed Bridge versions that truly feels like an 80-foot plus boat. “This boat is going to be a big hit,” says Viking Design Manager David Wilson. “We were able to bring some of the attributes of our larger models to the 68 while maintaining the efficiencies of a smaller sportfishing boat.” Not only is the 68C tournament ready, it's also very well-equipped to double as a cruising yacht with its plush interior; a juxtaposition between the hardcore angler mentality that went into the build and the level of comfort that the salon and staterooms provide. Underneath the bells and whistles though is true power to the tune of 40+ knot top speed and a fuel capacity of over 2,000 gallons. Go farther, fish harder, and do it all in total comfort on the new Viking 68 Convertible.
The cockpit (pictured below) on the 68C is a whopping 176 square feet which gives anglers and crew lots of room to maneuver during a tournament. Things happen fast when fighting big pelagics and no one wants to be crowded or running into each other trying to get lines in. Because the 68C has top of the line materials used in the hull and deck that are then resin-infused, the boat is much stronger and lighter. This results in the ability to produce a wider boat with more space. The 19' 2" beam allows for more usable space, particularly in the cockpit where it matters. Guests on board can watch the action in the comfort of the observation mezzanine which has Sunbrella-covered seats, air-conditioning, and small fridge close by. the cockpit deck also features a built-in space for a Seakeeper Gyro.
Read our article Sportfish Perfection: The Viking Yachts 68 Convertible
The interior of the Viking 68 Convertible follows in its sister ships' steps (the 72C) by allowing for a 4-stateroom, 4-head layout that does not compromise any fishing space on the exterior. The popular day head is placed directly next to the salon doors for convenience. The salon is large and open, particularly with the over-sized windows that line the interior. The open concept brings the living area, the galley, and the dining area all together which really creates a home-like atmosphere. The island in the galley has three bar stools which are great for eating lunch or having a cocktail with the cook on board. Whether fishing a multi-day tournament or planning a long distance cruise, the 68C has the comforts of home to make it an enjoyable and relaxing trip.
The master stateroom (pictured below) on the 68C is placed midships, is full-sized, and has an en suite head. Because it stretches almost the full beam of the boat, there is plenty of space not only to move around but for storage. The master cabin comes with his-and-hers maple-lined hanging lockers and credenzas. The forward VIP stateroom features a walk-around queen-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom.
“We put our best foot forward with every boat we build,” says Bill Gibbons, Viking's Senior Project Engineer about the 68C. “We have great technology to help ensure our ideas come to fruition, but it’s still exciting every time I hit the throttles for the first time. We nailed it again with the 68.” If you would like to learn more about the new Viking Yachts 68 Convertible, please contact your SI Yachts Sales Professional today. Below is a short, amateur clip of the new 68C handling some pretty rough seas!
The Viking Yachts 68 Enclosed Bridge (68EB):
If you loved the layout and capabilities of the new Viking 68 Convertible, then you will be whole-heartedly impressed with the 68 Enclosed Bridge Version. There have been many changes to what an enclosed bridge is expected to have in the Sportfish industry over the last several years and Viking has been forward-thinking in their approach. On Viking's 68EB, the bridge services as a private, air-conditioned (or heated) retreat from the elements complete with amazing views and lots of room to lounge. The comfortable L-shaped sofa and walnut coffee table sit across from a full entertainment center that is housed in walnut wood cabinetry. This is also the home of the upper helm on the 68EB which features a large wrap-around windshield for excellent sightlines and a raised console for easy access to all controls. The upper helm console holds the electronics components, engine controls and VIPER (Viking Independent Programmable Electro-hydraulic Rudder) steering. Its black Ultraleather surfaces and visor reduce glare. All electronics on board were installed by Viking's sister company, Atlantic Marine Electronics.
The Viking Yachts 68 Enclosed layout is almost exactly the same as the 68 Convertible with the salon, galley, and 4-stateroom accommodations being identical. The one difference between the Convertible and Enclosed Bridge is that the 68EB has a stainless steel staircase that leads you from the salon up to the upper bridge area.
Seen below is the layout of the enclosed bridge. If you would like to learn more about the new Viking Yachts 68 Enclosed Bridge, please contact one of our SI Yachts Sales Professionals today.
The Viking Yachts 58 Convertible (58C):
As with most successful manufacturers there are always those certain models throughout the history of the company that resonate with their customers. Maybe it's the way the lines flow aggressively to the bow or a certain flow through the interior that just made it that much more enjoyable. Throughout Viking's history, the reputation of the 58 Convertible was nothing short of legendary. The model proved to be one of the most popular boats in Viking's fleet. "From 1991 to 2000 we sold 110 of our 58 Convertibles,” says Viking President and CEO Patrick Healey. “It was our largest boat at the time and a major milestone for us." Almost twenty years later, the 58 Convertible makes its comeback and will debut at the upcoming Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, albeit some significant changes from when it originally came out. With improvements in the materials and equipment used to construct the 58C, combined with the years of knowledge gained by listening to owners and fishing the boats, the new 58 Convertible will undoubtedly be the highest-performing fishing and cruising yacht in its class.
The Flybridge on the new 58C (pictured below) is massive and features lots of excellent seating options to enjoy the view. Two Stihd pedestal seats behind the helm make captaining the 58C for long periods of time a breeze, while guests have the option to sit on one of two couches port and starboard or on the loveseat directly in front of the helm. The center console walk-around command station on the flybridge is equipped with power-assisted hydraulic steering, single-lever electronic controls with station select and keypad, and electronic trolling valves. Everyone on board the flybridge will enjoy the 360-degree views. This is also an excellent place to watch the action in the cockpit from a birds-eye view. The cockpit is just as impressively large as the flybridge at 165 square feet. Owners will enjoy the arsenal of fishing options in this area including the rod holders, raised transom box for a livewell, in-deck fish box, space for a Seakeeper Gyro, and so much more. As with all of their large, convertible sportfishermen, the Viking 58C will have their signature observation mezzanine which provides theater-like seating to watch the fight during a tournament.
It's no secret that Viking's construction methods lead the industry and the 58C is benefitting from Viking's recent advancements and investments in the factory. The hull of the 58 Convertible is built with a resin-infused balsa core that is sandwiched with fiberglass and hybrid-carbon fiber fabrics. The strength and stiffness of the hull allows for the vessel to be built for thinner walls, larger windows, and more interior space. This extra room is immediately noticeable when entering the salon of the 58C. There is literally a straight line to the bow peak immediately as you enter through the aft doors that runs completely through the interior. The interior volume is maximized by this use of space which really opens up the living areas and gives designers more room to create some amazing accommodations.
Owners have two options when it comes to building their 58 Convertible in terms of layout. Pictured below is the 3-stateroom, 2-head layout which offers a VIP suite in the bow complete with a queen-sized berth. The other option is to turn that forward VIP suite into an extra cabin with cross-over bunks to sleep one extra person. Plenty of storage, hanging lockers, and a washer/dryer set in the companionway complete the interior. If you would like to learn more about the new Viking Yachts 58 Convertible, please contact your SI Yachts Sales Professional today. Also read up on the proper way to maintain your boat or yacht.
The Viking Yachts 44 Convertible (44C):
Calling all big center-console owners! With an incredibly successful launch of the 37 Billfish, Viking set its sights next on growing its other entry-level boat, the 42 Convertible. Born was the 44 Open and the 44 Convertible, both highly versatile, fast, and comfortable. The 44 Convertible debuted in February at the Yachts Miami Beach Show to stunned crowds who could not believe so much could fit onto a 44-foot boat and still have so much room. The aggressive profile of the 44C is designed with a raked bow, sloping sheer, and a swept-back deckhouse. The 44C looks powerful with its black, wrap-around windshield which compliments the exterior lines. Owners will also appreciate staying dry during cruising thanks to the extra freeboard and configuration of the chines and strakes which provide a good lift and tracking. Powered with twin 800hp MAN diesel engines, or the optional 1,000hp Volvo Penta D-13 engines, the new 44 Convertible has an exhilarating performance at 38 knots.
Commanding that much power on a 44-boat from the flybridge helm is an experience that owners will love. The center-console walk-around helm (pictured below) has a clear view of the cockpit along with amazing 360-degree visibility. An available fiberglass hardtop can be ordered that has overhead instrumentation and teaser reel compartments, as well as a Costa Clear enclosure.
Coming in from the 119-square-foot cockpit through the aft door, you are treated to an open salon and galley (pictured below) that is bathed in high-gloss teak. Owners of large center-consoles will appreciate making the switch to the 44 for the interior accommodations. The salon has a comfortable couch, 40" flat-screen television, spacious dining area, and a starboard galley that is equipped with a two-burner cooking top, oven, microwave, fridge, freezer, and lots of storage. Everything you need to take the family or friends on extended fishing or cruising adventures.
After a long day of boating, everyone on board will be glad to refresh themselves in one of two staterooms on board that each have their own head. The master stateroom is placed portside with a large queen-sized berth, maple-lined cabinets for storage, and a flat-screen television. The guest stateroom is positioned forward in the bow with its own en suite head as well as a double berth below with a single bunk above. If you're looking for a 40-foot plus sportfishing or cruising yacht, you will want to check out Viking's 44C as soon as it becomes available at the next boat show. If you'd like to receive more information on the new Viking 44 Convertible, please let one of our SI Yachts Sales Professionals know and we would be happy to help.
As one of the oldest dealers in the Viking Yachts network and because of our proximity to the Viking factory, SI Yachts is uniquely positioned to help handle all of our needs when it comes to the purchase of a new Viking or the sale of your current one. We are proud to have such a close relationship with the top yacht manufacturer in the industry and to be able to bring our clients such an outstanding, respected product. Our job doesn't stop after we help you find the right Viking for you. Our service center at Staten Island Marina can help keep you fishing all season long with full capabilities to do almost anything including engine replacements, new teak cockpits, bottom jobs, and so much more. Since 1964, SI Yachts has been the most powerful dealer and brokerage firm in the Northeast and we look forward to earning your boating business.
If you've ever wondered what the inside of the Viking Factory in New Gretna looks like, check out the video below to see how these amazing yachts are built.
