Boasting a 224-square-foot (20.8-square-meter) cockpit, the Viking 90 solves two problems for Viking Yachts. Firstly, she lets it offer a super-size sportfisherman in a length akin to one of its most successful models. Secondly, the 90’s loadline length is beneath that of international regulations requiring a challenging-to-find diesel-exhaust fluid whose tankage impinges engine-room space.
Interestingly, according to Pat Healey, Viking’s president and CEO, “we embarked more than a year ago on this design.” The timing coincided with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) regulations impacting yachts whose loadline length exceeded 24 meters (79 feet). SCR solutions reduce nitrous-oxide emissions by injecting a liquid, urea, into the exhaust stream. Urea, however, is not widely available at fuel docks. Additionally, in 2019, Viking determined that the technology to develop SCR systems small enough and effective enough for its 93 Motor Yacht and 92 Convertible didn’t exist. The 92 Convertible was incredibly popular, too, seeing 21 hulls delivered in seven years. Viking determined it would have to cease construction on the two models, further due to engine manufacturers indicating they wouldn’t be SCR compliant until 2022. But, the 90, having a loadline length of 23.2 meters (76 feet), wouldn’t require SCR compliance.
Coincidentally enough, in March of this year, the U.S. Coast Guard announced a three-year suspension of the regulations in American waters. Since the Viking 90 was already well into development, Healey explains, “in 15 months we’ll proudly present the next flagship of the Viking sportfishing fleet.” Specifically, hull number one, a 90 Convertible, premieres at the Miami show in 2023.
The Viking 90—also available as Enclosed Bridge and Sky Bridge (above) versions—largely contains the amenities customers loved about the 92. So, for example, you’ll find six staterooms, including a full-beam (23’2”/7.05-meter) master. One difference, though, is criss-crossed bunks in one of the cabins. Regardless, you still get a traditional main-deck layout, and of course abundant fishing features like two full-length in-deck fishboxes and a 203-gallon transom livewell.
The Viking 90 reveals some bigger changes, however. The shipyard is using horizontal-grain walnut wood for the interior, for instance. It’s also inlaying ebony on the walnut doors, the latter with both horizontal and vertical grains. Outside, meanwhile, the upper mezzanine has an aft-facing seat to starboard, separate from the port-side, aft-facing lounge. You can outfit the starboard side with a barbecue and icemaker, or a refrigerator. Finally, there’s the performance. The Viking 90, with standard fuel tankage of 3,800 gallons, should top out at 38 knots—about four knots quicker than the 92. Standard power is a pair of Caterpillar C32As, with MTU and Caterpillar options further available.
Customers are already lining up. The first 10 hulls are taken.
Viking Yachts vikingyachts.com
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