WRITTEN BY: Rob Bowman
Jan 02, 2020 
When Viking Yachts first debuted the 46 Billfish, it was described to be the ready-to-go fishing machine perfect for either inshore or offshore trips that any owner/operator (with a little experience) could easily manage. Now that the new model is splashed, everyone is getting a glimpse into Viking's strategy with the Billfish series. "The 46 Billfish is the ultimate personal sportfisherman," said Rich Lucas, Viking Brand Manager for SI Yachts. "Models like the 80 Convertible or the 68 Convertible, they are absolutely fun to operate and are essential to compete in big offshore pelagic tournaments. But for the owner that wants a sportfish for his private life, his family and friends ...this is where the 46 Billfish really shines."
Seen below: A thorough review of the new 46 Billfish by Viking Mullica manager John Leek:
Sea Magazine recently did a review on the 46 Billfish and was overwhelmingly impressed with the handling and responsiveness of the new boat. Here's an excerpt from their test results: "With a light breeze from the southeast, the ocean off Atlantic City, N.J., provided modest seas of 2 feet, with an occasional 3-footer. A touch of trim with the tabs kept the bow in the water, and the raked entry maneuvered through the slop nicely. Top speed approached 39 knots with four people aboard, full water and approximately 400 gallons of fuel. While this speed is helpful while racing the clock to be at the weigh-in dock in time, midrange performance is especially notable. At 1435 rpm, the boat recorded 20.7 knots and the twin MAN diesels burned 30 gph, delivering a range of 440 n.m. based on 90 percent of the 709-gallon fuel capacity. At 1600 rpm and 25 knots, the engines consumed 36 gph, for a range of 443 miles. Running 30 knots at 1800 rpm, the MANs drank 44 gph, providing a 435-mile range. At wide-open throttle, 2,340 rpm, the engines consumed 80 gph, for a range of 311 miles. Clearly, the MAN engines are the right choice for the 46 Billfish."
In their press release, Viking lauded the 46 Billfish for its ease of operation and maintenance, but the truly significant value of this model is the "fish-ability" in an under 50-foot vessel. As with any sportfish that will be tested hard on the open water, the cockpit is arguably the most important space on a boat. From having room for multiple hook-ups at one time to convenient, on-hand fishing amenities, the design of the cockpit is crucial for any angler.
The floor of the cockpit has a non-skid deck surface to help with your own stability should someone hook up with a large fish and backing down is required. Viking has even thought to make sure the reach to the waterline is less than three feet for easy, quick marlin releases. There is a lift gate in the transom for easy boarding or for pulling in a fish and a live-well in the transom is standard. Additionally, the cockpit on the 46 Billfish includes a bait freezer with upper tray, insulated fish boxes port and starboard, insulated storage in the mezzanine step, self-bailing cockpit with scruppers, stereo speakers, tri-color LED lighting under the flybridge overhang, and so much more. Don't forget Viking's signature cockpit mezzanine seating!
The flybridge space with upper helm on the Viking 46 Billfish is a simple thing of beauty. Between the comfortable Release Marine teak helm seat to the big display screens, the flybridge helm has everything you want and need in a sportfish bridge. The helm pod is a faux-teak and includes a single-lever Palm Beach-style ZF marine engine controls that includes bow thruster buttons that are conveniently built into the handles. Talk about easy to maneuver! The optional hardtop has LED spread lights for a very cool set up at night. And for guests on board, the flybridge also has a forward-facing lounge and additional lounges port and starboard.
Forward of the observation mezzanine on the cockpit is the open salon command deck area. Viking has added a Costa Clear enclosure for protection while still enjoying the outdoors. There is ample seating in the command deck area including a U-shaped lounge portside with table for dining. Starboard side of the command deck includes an additional lounge that also functions for rod stowage. A hatch is center-line in the floor of the command deck that leads to the engine room for easy access.
Moving forward through the command deck salon and the bi-gold door, the interior accommodations on the 46 Billfish do not disappoint. Many center-console boats have added in small "galleys" that are really nothing more than a small fridge and sink, along with a double bunk. Not very roomy or comfortable. The 46 Billfish shines in its accommodations for a boat under 50' and of a sportfisherman design. With a beam over 15', there is ample room for living and sleeping comfortably.
(Seen below: The interior layout accommodations of the Viking 46 Billfish featuring the queen-sized berth.)
The interior appointments are luxurious, as you would expect from the prolific sportfish builder. The juxtaposition between rugged durability, hardcore fishing features, and the soft, comfortable accommodations inside is glaring in its perfect execution of play and rest. Beautiful teak lines the galley and master cabin with ample drawers that are lined with maple wood. The galley is placed starboard and features everything you need to feed a hungry crew including a 2-burner electric stove, a microwave/convection oven, refrigerator, freezer with built-in ice maker, and plenty of electrical outlets.
Across from the galley on the portside is the interior head that includes a complete shower stall. There is a Dometic toilet and the vanity has Corian countertops for the continued luxury appeal. Just forward of the head is the second cabin featuring over/under bunk beds. Perfect for kids or guests that want to tag along for overnight trips, the guest bunks aren't massive but will allow more of your friends to comfortably tag along.
Placed in the bow is the large master stateroom. What a step up from the twin bunk of a center-console! For your comfort, the entire interior - stateroom and galley - is controlled with reverse cycle heat and air that maintain the perfect temperature. The master cabin features an island-style queen berth with foam mattress and storage underneath. There are two maple-lined hanging lockers for storage and a Bomar hatch for good ventilation that includes an OceanAir shade screen. The master also includes an entertainment system with flat-screen television and CD/DVD player.
The Viking 46 Billfish is an incredible sportfishing vessel that can easily be fished hard in tournaments or cruised with family and friends. The accommodations are massive for this size of vessel, offering yacht-like amenities and maneuverability of a center-console. And best of all, Viking's unmatched quality is apparent throughout the boat. If you would like to receive more information on the price of the 46 Billfish and availability, please contact the SI Yachts main office at (718) 984-7676 or by emailing us at Sales@SIYachts.com. With our ability to take your existing boat in on trade and the top service/warranty team in the Northeast at our Staten Island Marina, we are able to provide superior customer service every step of the way. Interested in a pre-owned Viking? Give us a call today!
Other Viking-related articles of interest:
- How Much Does A 70-Foot Viking Cost?
- How Much Does A 80-Foot Viking Cost?
- How Much Does A 50-Foot Viking Cost?
- Is Viking A Good Yacht?
- Sell Your Viking Faster
- Resource Guide To Owning A Viking
- How Much Does A Viking 92 Cost?
- The Viking 64 Convertible : Sportfish Evolved
- Announcing The New Viking 90
- A Review Of The Valhalla V-46
- The Battle-Tested Viking 72
- Sportfish Perfection: The Viking 64
