Building a better boat every day tells the story of each Viking yacht as it cruises along its evolutionary trail. When the first Viking 48 Convertible was launched in 1985 it was a powerful introduction that quickly went to the head of the fleet. Early models launched with J & T turbo-charged 6V92TA Detroit Diesels and were soon followed with 8V92TA making waves as the fastest in its class. The interior featured man-sized appointments, with a fashion plate of luxury details, rich teak joinery and opulent designer furnishings. This was a popular boat and we built it steadily for five years.
Another 48 Convertible appeared on the scene in 2002. It featured a completely different hull and topside, a newer fresher interior layout that was more accommodating for both fishing and cruising. Where the earlier 48C was a sharply defined and angular at every corner and turn, the second generation 48 Convertible was an ice cream smooth operator with endless curves that melded together in a singular statement of beauty. From the sheer to the bridge to the cockpit, there wasn’t a straight line on the boat. The flying bridge was twice the size of the previous 48C with more room fore and aft. The salon was even better with its U-shape galley, dinette, and a larger sofa. Frameless windows replaced the maintenance heavy metal frames of the previous boat. Two and three stateroom layouts made good use of space. Engineering improvements added more versatility like engineroom access from the cockpit, and with our subsidiaries Atlantic Marine Electronics and Palm Beach Towers now part of the Viking organization, this 48C could be delivered turnkey ready.
Fast forward to today and totally new 48 Convertible has joined the Viking product line. The exterior is sleek and powerful and the boat makes an impressive statement even resting at the dock. The wraparound black metallic windshield mask, window lines and flying bridge feature treatments reveal how far we have come with this evolutionary theme. The resin infused hull is beamy and carries its breadth farther aft for more interior room and a wider cockpit. The raked entry and forward chine are designed to pierce through head seas and divert spray downward. Convex hull sections add curvature and form to the running surface, while molded running strakes accentuate lateral tracking and maneuverability.
The lush interior is rich in detail with our signature hand-finished teak or walnut joinery depending upon the owner’s selection. Taking advantage of the spacious beam, the salon abounds with stylish appointments throughout the salon with an L-shape lounge and cocktail table, as well as an inviting dinette, which anchor the area for relaxing and entertaining. To starboard the peninsula galley has a raised bar top and is accented with Cambria treatments, under counter refrigeration, a microwave/convection oven and ample stowage behind the maple-lined cabinetry. Overnight accommodations are plush with three staterooms and two heads providing all the comfort and privacy you need for fishing and cruising in style. A laundry center and central vacuum system add sophisticated convenience.
On the flying bridge, the center console helm and flanking lounges are tournament proven and will make the Viking 48 Convertible the envy of anything in its class with its custom navigation and communication systems provided by our subsidiary Atlantic Marine Electronics. Powered with MAN diesels the 48 Convertible will cruise at 30 knots with a top end in the mid 30 knot range depending upon engine selection, load, sea and other environmental factors. Engineroom access is through the observation mezzanine in the 124 square-foot cockpit, which features flush rod holders, a transom fish box, and recessed fish and stowage wells in the nonslip fiberglass sole. A transom door with lift gate, a drink box, a bait cooler and tackle stowage are standard. The lazarette is designed to accommodate a Seakeeper gyro stabilizer, which can be installed at the factory or a later date.
Whether moving up or moving down throughout our world famous fleet, you will find the 48 Convertible a true blue-water champion in spirit, performance, accommodations and evolutionary prowess in the herald Viking tradition. We invite you to contact your Viking dealer to learn more about this exciting and beautiful new model. In the meantime we welcome you aboard to enjoy a virtual tour.
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