NAVIGATE

Compass Articles

Let our articles be your compass to a world of nautical elegance and adventure.

Viking 38 Open Billfish: In-Depth Review

A Comprehensive Introduction

The Viking 38 Open Billfish is purpose-built for both dedicated anglers and casual yacht enthusiasts. This vessel is designed to serve as both a functional fishing machine and a comfortable cruising yacht. Equipped with reliable inboard diesel power, it promises reliability and ease of maintenance for its owners. Whether for inshore or offshore excursions, the 38 Open Billfish stands ready to deliver an efficient and enjoyable experience.

Fishing Features and Cockpit Design

The fishing capabilities of the Viking 38 Open Billfish are extensive and tailored for convenience. The cockpit spans 109 square feet, accommodating a laminated mounting plate for a fighting chair or rocket launcher, which are essential elements for serious fishing. The design includes in-deck insulated fish boxes on both the port and starboard sides, a walk-through transom door, a bait freezer, a transom fish box, and live well. Ample rod holders and tackle storage are strategically located for practicality. Fresh and raw-water washdowns are readily available to ensure cleanliness after a successful catch.

To enhance the leisure experience, the cockpit features mezzanine-style seats for two people, providing an optimal viewing area of the surrounding waters. For comfort and convenience, there are refrigerated drink storages and ample general storage spaces. The command deck offers an abundance of seating options with L-shaped lounges on both port and starboard sides, complete with beneath storage. Climate control maintains an ideal atmosphere for all guests.

Command Deck and Navigation

The command deck highlights the versatility of the Viking 38 Open Billfish. A raised centerline command station provides the captain with excellent sightlines, equipped with a fiberglass helm pod, power-assist hydraulic steering, and stainless steel wheel control. Owners can even choose a teak option for a touch of personalization. The vessel can also be outfitted with a custom tuna tower featuring a second helm and a buggy top, built to owner specifications by the experts at Viking’s Palm Beach Towers.

For navigation and communication needs, Atlantic Marine Electronics offers turnkey solutions customizing the electronic package to match specific desires, ensuring that each Viking 38 Open Billfish leaves the dock equipped for any journey.

Day and Night Livability

Below deck, the Viking 38 Open Billfish capitalizes on its 14-foot beam to deliver a well-equipped living space. High-gloss teak and Amtico flooring elevate the interior environment, bringing style and warmth to the experience. The private head is strategically positioned to port of the companionway stairs, offering a large walk-in shower with elegant satin nickel fixtures and a sleek Corian-topped vanity with a sink and storage, ensuring convenience in personal care.

The galley is both practical and attractive, featuring Corian countertops, a two-burner electric stove, a microwave/convection oven, cabinet storage, and under-counter drawer-style refrigeration complete with a built-in ice maker. These facilities empower cabin occupants to prepare and store meals with ease.

The forward stateroom is designed with a lower double bunk and an upper single bunk to accommodate multiple guests, along with a starboard-side hanging locker and a sofa with storage that doubles as an extra bunk.

Engineering and Structural Integrity

Standout engineering defines the Viking 38 Open Billfish, through manufacturing methods leveraging the latest materials and technologies. The hull employs a modified vinylester resin skin and utilizes end-grain balsa and closed-cell foam as coring materials. These are carefully positioned to achieve optimized strength, stiffness, and weight savings. The single integrated fiberglass fuel tank is resin-infused, presenting a high standard of safety while maintaining structural rigidity.

Access to critical machinery is simplified through electrically actuated hatches in the command deck area, reinforcing safety and ease of maintenance. Systems such as the Delta-T engine room ventilation and an automatic/manual fire suppression system demonstrate how Viking implements large-yacht technology in more compact vessels.

Featuring Class “S” pitch tolerance propellers dynamically balanced to perfection, alongside bronze struts, seacocks, and rudders, the Viking 38 Open Billfish emphasizes precision. The beautifully painted Snow White Awlgrip finish illuminates the engine room, lazarette, and forward bilges, enhancing visibility and reducing maintenance complexities. A central hatch provides immediate access to the engine, optional Seakeeper SK 6 gyro, water maker, and fuel fittings. Powered by twin Cummins QSB6.7 diesels, the Viking 38 Open Billfish ensures robust performance and efficiency.

Specifications

  • Length Overall (LOA): 38 ft. 8 in. (11.79 m)
  • Beam: 14 ft. 0 in. (4.27 m)
  • Draft: 3 ft. 4 in. (1.02 m)
  • Gross Weight: 30,453 lbs. (13,813 kg)
  • Fuel Capacity: 460 gallons (1741 liters)
  • Water Capacity: 69 gallons (261 liters)
  • Cockpit Area: 109 sq. ft. (10.01 sq. m.)
  • Power Options:
  • Cummins QSB6.7 550 MHP diesels

Conclusion

The Viking 38 Open Billfish stands as an exemplary yacht brimming with well-thought-out features for both sport fishing and luxury cruising. Embodying quality craftsmanship and state-of-the-art engineering, it accommodates a range of maritime pursuits. To further explore the Viking 38 Open Billfish and what it can offer, reaching out to a team member at Fly Yachts could provide personalized, insightful guidance.

Fly Yachts offers a comprehensive range of services, starting from a variety of luxury Yachts for Sale to personalized yacht building experiences available on the Build a Yacht page. Visit their Homepage to get an overview of all offerings. Learn more about the company’s history and unique approach on their About Us page. Explore worldwide Charter Destinations for your next yachting adventure, and for insightful reads, check their Compass Articles. If you’re considering selling your yacht, access their dedicated services on the Sell Your Yacht page. Discover various options for chartering luxury yachts on the Yachts Charter section. For aviation enthusiasts, Fly Yachts also lists Aircraft for Sale. Stay informed with Gulfstream News, and for any inquiries or assistance, reach out through the Contact page.

Why Choose Us?

Our experienced brokers combine deep industry knowledge with genuine care to help you find the perfect yacht.

Newsletter

Contact Us

Want to Learn More?