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Express Model

Viking has not made many express models, and only made one in the early years. It had production advantages in that it was based heavily on the 35 Convertible, in production at the same time. Most express boats of that time were smaller, yet this was the smallest boat being built at Viking. It was, and still is, favored by fisherman as a good fishing platform, and is frequently seen as a six-pack commercial charter boat.

35 Express Sport Fisherman

1983-1985. The 35 Express Sport Fisherman was the only Express model produced during the early years. The 35 Express was the 35 Convertible without the flybridge and saloon, weighing in 1,000 lbs lighter. The lower level, including the forward stateroom, head with shower, booth dinette and galley were identical to the Convertible. A bridge deck and helm, usually enclosed with canvas and plastic, also included seating on both sides. Optional tuna towers and outriggers are often seen. Straight inboards were powered by twin gas Crusader 350 HP or Caterpillar 3208 diesels of 300-355 HP.

43 Open

1994-2002. The 43 Open was introduced almost ten years after the previous Viking Open model was discontinued - the 35 Open. This one was built on the 43 Convertible hull, introduced just a few years earlier. Although 4500 pounds lighter than the Convertible it used the same engines. Inside was high-quality teak cabinetry and featured a forward stateroom with centerline queen berth, a galley and head with shower. An optional second sleeping area in the saloon included bunk beds, replacing the convertible couch. The bridgedeck included a centerline helm and seating for ten. Twin diesel straight inboards of 550-800 HP were located under the bridgedeck and accessed from the cockpit. Speeds were 25-40 knots.

Flybridge Models

Viking Yachts knew what they wanted to build in a flybridge yacht. There are no radical design changes to be seen during the period. Rather, it is a process of continual improvement. And with Viking's interest in both sportfishing and cruising, the interiors got as much improvement as the exteriors. Their balance of the two found a market.

33 Sport Fisherman

1972-1974. The 33 Sport Fisherman, Viking's first fiberglass model, showed the experience of ten years of wooden boat building. Perhaps a tentative first step into fiberglass, and lasting only three years, this model still provides excellent fishing and cruising today. Inside was a stateroom forward, a head with shower, a galley and a large saloon. Decor was white plastic panels, teak trim and imatation wood veneers - done in nice quality and probably above standard for the day. The flybridge had a centerline helm station all the way forward. A second optional helm in the cabin is often seen. The hull was a moderate V design of just over 15,000 lbs., that would become the standard on Viking yachts. Power was provided by twin Crusader gas 350 HP V-drives under the cockpit.

35 Sport Fisherman

1974-1984. The 35 Sport Fisherman was introduced in 1974. It would later be renamed the 35 Convertible and would become Viking's most successful model, in production more than 15 years. Only two feet longer and a few inches wider than the original 33, displacement was increased to 20,000 lbs. The engines were relocated under the saloon as straight inboards. The interior lower layout added a guest stateroom with bunk beds or, more commonly, a booth style dinette, as well as an expanded galley. The helm on the enlarged flybridge was moved back with additional seating in front of the helm. The cockpit grew to about 80 sq. ft. Power was provided by twin Crusader gas 350 HP or optional Caterpillar diesels of 300 HP, which were rare originally but would grow in popularity.

35 Convertible

1985-1990. The 35 Convertible is the same boat as the earlier 35 Sport Fisherman, with a few updates that were made in 1985. The flybridge was updated and expanded slightly, the windshield was glassed over, and the generator was moved under the saloon with the engines for an improved environment and common access. The seagoing capabilities were good for a 35 footer, with a sharp entry, 15.5 deg of deadrise aft, an evolved hull and recessed trim tabs. The dinette and galley are on the lower level with full-size refridgerator-freezer, electric stove, microwave, icemaker and plenty of storage for enhanced cruising. Berths were provided for six in the forward stateroom (2), convertible dinette (2), and convertible sofa (2). Dual zone AC and heat, a standard generator and entertainment center complete the interior. Two in-deck fishboxes, cockpit bait station and freezer plus optional outriggers provided all the serious fishing amenities. Power was provided by gas Crusader 350 HP or Caterpillar 3208 diesels of 320 HP in 1986 or 375 HP thereafter.

38 Convertible

1990-1995. The 38 Convertible was introduced to replace the 35 Convertible. It was probably the first model with the newer construction, including increased supports in the hull and a single, solid deck component from bow to stern. It was 3 feet longer than the 35 and a good foot wider, and weighed about the same as the 41 Convertible at about 32,000 lbs, which was fifty percent more than the 35 footer. The interior included a master stateroom forward with a centerline double bed, a head with a stall shower, U-shaped galley and U-shaped dinette. An optional second stateroom with bunk beds was an alternate to the dinette. It had a short production which ended in the tough 95-96 years for Viking, and was the end of under-40 models at Viking. The engines were 6-71 Detroits at 485 HP.

40 Convertible

1973-1982. The 40 Convertible was the second fiberglass model introduced by Viking the year after the original 33 foot model. Initially introduced as the Sedan Fisherman, like the 35 footer the following year, both would soon become known as "Convertibles". Originally constructed entirely of solid fiberglass, balsa coring was introduced in the late 1970s for decks and hull sides. The forward stateroom offered V-berths. An optional master stateroom had a full-size berth in lieu of the standard convertible dinette. Power was provided originally by twin gas Crusader straight inboards of 350 HP. In later years diesel power was offered, starting at 210 HP. Although typical for the day, this power was minimal for a 30,000 lb boat. The 40 Convertible established a strong following over 10 years for the very similar 41 Convertible that would replace it.

41 Convertible

1983-1989. The 41 Convertible was introduced in 1983 to replace the 40 Convertible. Almost a foot longer and four inches wider, most dimensions are identical. But the interior layout takes full advantage of the extra inches with a larger master stateroom in the bow and improved design throughout. A solid front windshield with larger, modern, yet opening side windows and a cabin door shifted to one side are apparent. The extensive top-of-the-line teak woodwork in the cabin are as good as on any boat. The sound hull with a sharp entry and 15 deg of deadrise provided an excellent ride and was beefed up to support larger diesels and higher speeds. Although gas inboards were standard, almost all boats are seen with Detroit Diesels 6-71s of 450 HP and 485 HP in later years.

43 Convertible

1990-2002. The 43 Convertible was introduced in 1990 to replace the long-running 40 and 41 Convertibles. Slightly larger, it was an updated, redesigned boat built to handle much larger engines than the 485s of the 41 footer. Inside, the Plan A design included a walk-around queen berth stateroom forward, a head with single stall shower, a U-shaped galley and U-shaped dinette. Plan B, offered a second stateroom with bunk beds replacing the dinette without disturbing the layout. The large flybridge included a rear-located helm station and seating for ten. Twin diesel inboards of 550-800 HP were accessed from the cockpit.

45 Convertible

1987-1993. The 45 Convertible was introduced after the 46 was upsized to the 48 to bridge the gap between the 41 and 48 Convertibles. As one of the last models introduced in this period, this model shared the sleekest exterior lines. The master stateroom was in the bow with a centerline queen berth. A popular Plan-C layout offered two staterooms and a booth-style dinette. Power was provided by twin Detroit Diesels of 485-550 HP providing speeds up to about 28 knots.

46 Convertible

1981-1985. The 46 Convertible was introduced in 1981 by Viking as their largest Convertible, when their convertible lineup included just the 35 and the 41. It remained popular until upsized to the 48 in 1985. This model was designed with upper and lower crossing bunks in the forward stateroom and a master stateroom with a queen size athwartship berth. An optional third stateroom with bunks could be installed in the lower galley space with the galley replacing the standard booth-style dinette. The interior was constructed and decorated with high-quality teak on all surfaces. This early model includes portholes in the forward hull and front windows on some boats, which are all eliminated in later models. Power is provided by various twin Detroit Diesels of 435-735 HP.

47 Convertible

1994-2002. The 47 Convertible replaced the early 45 Convertible and filled the model line between the 43 and 50 Convertibles. The 47 Convertible is more powerful and faster than the 45. The interior is modernized with a single large master stateroom forward with a centerline queen berth, and a private head with shower. A smaller guest stateroom to starboard contains bunk beds. A U-shaped galley and L-shaped dinette are on the saloon level. The flybridge with aft-located helm station includes seating for ten. The cockpit is large and complete, with access to the engines. Power is provided by twin Man diesels of 680 HP producing 25-32 knots.

48 Convertible

1985-1990. The 48 Convertible replaced the 46 Convertible in 1985, and appears to be a stretched version of the same 16 ft wide hull. Exterior lines were updated with a newer sheer line and modern side windows. Portholes were removed and a solid cabin front were made standard for improved ocean seakeeping. Two and three stateroom versions were available with the master stateroom moved to the bow with a centerline queen berth. Both layouts included two heads, both with showers, on opposite sides of the boat just aft the forward stateroom. The two stateroom model included a booth-style dinette. The cockpit offered 145 sq. ft. of space and full fishing amenities. Power was provided by twin Detroit Diesels of 525-750 HP.

50 Convertible

1991-2002. The 50 Convertible was designed to improve upon and replace the successful 48 Convertible. Just two feet longer and a few inches more beam, it is 6,000 lbs heavier to support larger engines. And the hull is modified, not just extended, for improved speed, comfort and dryness. Inside, the master stateroom, with walkaround queen berth, is moved back and the forward stateroom set up with bunks for guests. A third stateroom, also with bunks, an optional Plan C on the 48, is made standard. The salon corner dinette is made standard replacing the booth style dinettes. Initially offered with V-10 Man Diesels at 845 HP, later models are found with 1050 Mans, acessed from the cockpit. Speeds for all are 32-38 knots.

53 Convertible

1990-1998. The 53 Convertible was introduced at the same time as the 38 Convertible; both included new hull and deck design and construction. The 53 Convertible is a three stateroom, two head model. The large master stateroom, on the starboard side, includes a walk-around queen size berth and private head. The forward stateroom and a smaller port stateroom offer bunk beds. This may be the first Viking model to replace the booth-style dinette with a triangular table at an L-shaped lounge in the saloon. The interior is fine teak joinery exclusively. Power is provided by twin Man diesels of 820 or 1000 HP producing speeds over 30 knots. Access to engines is inside the cabin.

57 Convertible

1988-1990. The 57 Convertible, introduced in 1988, was the last model designed before the luxury tax downturn. It was produced for only three years, but tweaked further as the 58 Convertible, which would be in production for another decade. Inside are three staterooms and three heads. The master stateroom, forward, is very spacious with a centerline queen berth. The guest stateroom has twin single berths, while the third stateroom has offset bunks. A complete U-shaped galley and L-shaped dinette are on the saloon level. Outside the cockpit is 165 sq. ft. with full fishing amenities. This was the first Viking designed with engine room access from the cockpit, keeping dirt, oil and mechanics out of the saloon and making it easier for boat owners to check on all the machinery. This feature would become the standard in future yacht design. Standard power was twin Detroit Diesel 12V92s at 1080 HP each, producing 33 knots.

58 Convertible

1991-2001. The 58 Convertible replaced the 57 Convertible, which was in production for only three years. The 58 Convertible was created from the 57 hull with changes to improve seakeeping and comfort. Bow angle was increased to cut more easily into head seas, and accounts for the extra foot in length. Bow flare was also increased to deflect spray, also increasing interior volume in the forward stateroom. The aft hull received a slightly rounded transom and rounded aft corners for a smoother ride and to deflect water while backing down. The 58 Convertible was produced as an open bridge but would later be modified as the first enclosed bridge model. The forward stateroom has been designated a guest stateroom, while retaining the centerline queen berth. The master stateroom is on the port side amidships with a free standing queen berth and extensive cabinetry. A third stateroom to starboard offers bunk beds. Engine access is from the large cockpit. Standard power remained Detroit 1080 HP diesels, but 1100 HP Mans, which were much lighter, were also offered, providing 36 knots.

Motoryacht Models

Viking Yachts built a number of motoryachts during this period. They had built motoryachts in their wooden boat days. It is apparent from the good-looking designs of these motoryachts that Viking had experience. The same high quality teak woodwork that was found on their convertibles can be found on these motoryachts as well.

43 Double Cabin Motoryacht

1975-1982. The 43 Double Cabin Motoryacht was Viking's first fiberglass motoryacht and enjoyed a good eight year production. Although the designed sheer line was mildly sportfish style, this motoryacht was not built directly on a production spoortfish hull, but the hull form was sophisticated and a relatively deep V with 17 degrees of deadrise aft. This was a two stateroom motoryacht with the master in the aft cabin and a V-berth stateroom in the bow. Each had a head with shower. Also on the forward lower level were a booth-style dinette and large galley. The interior was finished entirely in dark teak. An optional inside helm station is seen on some early boats, and all have front windows. Most were powered with twin Crusader gas 350 HP engines. Diesels were optional from Caterpillar or Detroit of 215-310 HP.

44 Motoryacht

1982-1990. The 44 Motoryacht replaced the 43 with more room, updated design, addional features and more power. Length was actually a foot and four inches longer than the 43, and beam was three inches wider. It was a stronger boat with displacement increasing 6,000 lbs. The overall design was similar to the 43 with two staterooms, a dinette and galley. The forward stateroom was enlarged slightly and offered a centerline full berth or bunk beds. The U-shaped dinette replaced the booth of the 43 and seats more people. The interior is entirely solid teak with overall quality and appearance improved over earlier models. All power is twin diesel from Detroit or Caterpillar from 375-485 HP.

48 Flybridge Motoryacht

1986-1988. The 48 Flybridge Motoryacht was built on the 48 Convertible that was produced simultaneously. The Motoryacht used the hull, cabin and flybridge of the Convertible, including interior layout. The Motoryacht added an aft cabin master stateroom with centerline queen berth and head, which included a tub. The permanently enclosed aftdeck was decorated like a saloon with fabrics and teak cabinetry. Power is most often seen with twin Detroit Diesels 735-770 HP. Although somewhat heavier than the Convertible, on which it is based, The large engines on a Convertible hull still provide excellent performance, especially for a motoryacht.

50 Cockpit Motoryacht

1983-1989. The 50 Cockpit Motoryacht was a modified version of the 44 Motoryacht released the previous year. An extension was added to the 44 and constructed as a small cockpit suitable for sunbathing, fishing and easier access to the swim-platform. The cockpit included recessed cleats and fishing pole holders in the gunnels. The cockpit is accessed down four steps from the (covered) aft sundeck. Power options were the same as the 44 although the Detroit Diesels at 485 HP are most often seen. While by no means a Canyon Runner, the 50 Cockpit Motoryacht does provide the opportunity to venture somewhat offshore with an aft cockpit for some real deep-sea fishing.

50 Motoryacht

1990-1995. The 50 Motoryacht was designed as a flush deck model that was not built on an existing sportfish hull. The flybridge is large and includes the primary helm station. The cabin includes front windows and a second helm station to starboard. The aftdeck and saloon of this motoryacht are on the same level. Below, the aft cabin contains the master stateroom with centerline queen berth and private head with shower. A guest stateroom forward of the saloon includes an athwartship double berth, while the third stateroom in the bow includes bunk beds. Power was provided by twin Detroit Diesel 8V92 engines of 735 HP.

55 Motoryacht

1987-1990. When Viking introduced the 55 Motoryacht in 1987 they must have felt they had the perfect beam, 17'4". Every motoryacht they would build after this, except the smaller 50 footer, would use this same beam. This model has the master stateroom and head aft and three staterooms forward, one with a double bed, two with bunks, plus two additional heads. Some versions of this model were marketed as "Wide Body", not only for the wide beam but because the saloon was carried to full beam, like the aft deck. Walk-in engine room access was from the aft hallway. Power was provided by twin Detroit diesels of 735 HP, making 18-22 knots.

63 Cockpit Motoryacht

1987-1991. The 63 Cockpit Motoryacht is built on the 55 Motoryacht with an aft extension designed as a small open cockpit. This cockpit is useful for boarding, fishing, easy access to the water for swimming, or just lounging close to the water. Viking would build a number of Cockpit Motoryacht models which proved popular. With molded-in seating on the foredeck, an open extended upper deck with seating aft of the flybridge, and the aft sea-level open cockpit, this model provides plenty of sunny, fresh air open space.

63 Motoryacht

1988-1991. The 63 Motoryacht was introduced a year after the successful 55 Motoryacht, on that same 17'4" beam. The additional space enabled larger staterooms. The master stateroom aft includes a free-standing king size berth, built-in nightstand cabinets, couch seating - all done in solid teak joinery. It also includes a private head with stall shower and a separate tub. Three additional staterooms forward include a large stateroom in the bow with a centerline queen berth and private head. Guest stateroom port and starboard include a double berth and twin beds. A second head is forward as well. The original version includes a full-beam aft deck, the "Wide-Body" version expands the saloon to full-beam. Power is provided by twin Detroit Diesels of 735-900 HP, making 18-22 knots.

70 Cockpit Motoryacht

1988-1991. Viking built the 70 Cockpit Motoryacht on the 63 Motoryacht by adding an open cockpit on an aft extension - the same way they created the 63 Cockpit Motoryacht from the 55 Motoryacht. The cockpit motoryacht design, combined with other open spaces on the foredeck, and the extended upper deck, provides lots of sunny, open space. The cockpit is useful for boarding, fishing, easy access to the water for swimming, or just lounging close to the water. The 70 Cockpit Motoryacht includes the same power as the 63 Motoryacht. Cockpit models don't seem to give up much performance over Motoryacht models, probably because it is only limited additional weight and speeds are not as high as sport fisherman.