Following Viking's mantra to build a better boat every day, the New Jersey company has consistently brought exciting yachts for 56 years, with multiple generations in various size ranges, and level of expertise shine through with every new model. That proficiency is particularly strong in the 50-to-60-foot sportfish boat genre, where Viking has introduced 10 models in the past two decades. This legacy fleet consists of more than 600 Vikings and includes ground-breaking models such as the 60 and 55, two renditions of the 52 Convertible and the first-generation 54. Now, the New Jersey boatbuilder reaffirms its domination of the mid-size convertible with the new Viking 54. The three-stateroom, two-head open bridge yacht pushes the owner/operator convertible to the highest levels of engineering, performance, accommodations and sportfishing capabilities. The 54 presents an eye-pleasing profile that’s unmistakably Viking, with signature design traits such as a gently sloping unbroken S-shaped sheer, aggressively raked stem, double chines, hull-side vents and deftly placed exterior feature lines. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics software, the Viking Design and Engineering Department has optimized the 54’s running surface for maximum performance. The hull is built with an engineered composite of fiberglass fabrics and coring that’s vacuum-infused with vinylester resin. The 54’s business end offers more space than any other boat in its class. The unobstructed cockpit comes to the fishing wars with the ammunition to put you in the winner’s circle, starting with moulded non-skid on the cockpit sole for grippy footing and large scuppers to drain water quickly. A walk-through transom door with a lift gate takes the work out of boating a trophy catch, and when you’re release-fishing, a three-foot reach to the waterline means you can quickly turn a billfish loose. Anglers will appreciate Viking’s signature rounded cockpit coamings and toe-kick for those lengthy stand-up battles. Flush rod holders, recessed stainless-steel hawse pipes and cleats keep the cockpit clear. Multiple insulated fish-boxes of various capacities increase flexibility. The raised transom box can be used as a live well, fish-box or general storage. A full-length in-deck fishbox spans the starboard side, while the port side holds two storage compartments with the forward serving as an optional live well. A mounting plate laminated into the sole will anchor the mightiest of fighting chairs, and you can also opt for a rocket launcher or table. A single centerline lazarette hatch opens nearly 90 degrees for full viewability and access to the available Seakeeper as well as the steering, trim tabs and drain pumps. Guests will be enamored with the raised observation mezzanine as pioneered by Viking, as they watch the action in comfort, shaded by the flybridge overhang. Smart storage solutions abound, with freezer and cooler space under the mezzanine for baits and drinks and a tackle cabinet on the starboard side. The inboard portion of the mezzanine provides access to the engine-room. An anodized aluminium ladder with nonslip treads and a handrail at the top provides secure egress to the flybridge. A streamlined walk-around center console provides 360-degree sightlines. Touchscreen electronics displays and a row of Bocatech switches with power status LED rings are flush mounted in the helm dash. Their installation and positioning heighten viewability and ease of access. A stainless steel steering wheel and single-lever electronic controls are mounted on a raised teak helm pod. Optimus Electronic Power Steering delivers precise manoeuvrability and finger-tip control. The console itself is designed with toe-kick all around for better balance and increased walking area. The helm and companion chair supply ample comfort for those long rides to the canyons, and guests can take it easy in the port or starboard lounges or forward console seat. The 54 can be outfitted with a custom designed and fabricated Palm Beach Towers tuna tower and equipped with navigation, communication and entertainment systems from Atlantic Marine Electronics. These two Viking subsidiaries play critical roles in making Viking yachts turnkey ready. Making full use of the five meter plus beam, the 54’s layout accentuates the impressive size of her interior. The key to the configuration is the uninterrupted companionway that stretches from the starboard-side salon door all the way to the forepeak. The lounge area and galley are to port, while the dinette is to starboard. High-gloss teak or walnut is offered for the 54’s interior, and a satin finish is optional. Premium wall-to-wall carpeting and furnishings can be found throughout the climate-controlled living area. Air conditioning flows quietly from valances for comfortable cooling and thorough distribution. A hi-lo mappa burl cocktail table joins the L-shaped lounge with storage below. A TV is nested on the forward starboard bulkhead above the dinette, which is appointed with a high-gloss mappa burl table and wraparound seating for four. The galley’s peninsula countertop features engineered stone with an overhang and two convenient bar stools. The galley is feature-packed with a pair of under-counter Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer units and storage under the peninsula counter. The opposite counter is home to a stainless steel sink with garbage disposal and an electric cooktop. The three-stateroom two-head layout includes a master suite to port with a walk-around queen berth sided by night stands and a credenza to port. There’s a large maple-lined storage area beneath the mattress, accessed via a gas piston-assisted lift-up top, and two drawers are integrated into the foot of the bed. A TV is mounted above a second credenza. A generously proportioned maple-lined hanging locker accommodates a sizeable wardrobe. The forward stateroom comes standard with a queen berth, but also is available with a crossover berth arrangement. The starboard stateroom has upper and lower berths along with a hanging locker and storage under the lower berth. Each stateroom is fully carpeted, with dedicated temperature and stereo controls, speakers and overhead LED lighting. The heads feature custom Amtico flooring, a lower vanity, a medicine cabinet with mirrored doors, exhaust fans, air conditioning and electric heads with holding tank and overboard discharge capabilities. Both also boast very large walk-in one-piece fiberglass showers with an expansive glass enclosure and door. Below the detachable shower head, you’ll find a convenient storage cabinet as well as an integrated fiberglass seat. The optional Man 1550hp power hull No. 1. With this propulsion package, the Viking 54 Convertible will have an estimated cruise speed in the mid-30-knot range with a top end of 40-plus knots depending upon load, sea state and boat condition. A pair of Man 1400hp diesels are standard. All mechanicals and equipment are installed with great attention to detail in an immaculate engine-room painted with Snow White Awlgrip for visibility and ease of maintenance.
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.61 m (54.6ft)
Length - 14.4 m
Beam - 5.38 m
Draft - 1.50 m
Displacement - 34032 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity - 5311 l standard, 5811 l optional
Water Capacity - 750 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Man CRM V12 1400hp, V12 1550hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 35 knots cruise 40 knots max with Man 1550hp
Hull Shape - modified Vee with 12 degrees deadrise aft
Construction - vacuum infused Cored with Vinilester resins
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