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Viking’s 44 Open On Its Way

Viking Yachts Launches 44 Open for 2018 Model Year.
Viking 44 Open
The Viking 44 Open’s cockpit measures 119 square feet. An aluminum backing plate lets owners mount a rocket launcher or fighting chair. Courtesy Viking Yacht Company

The yacht expands the builder’s Open series to five models, currently ranging from 42 to 52 feet in length. Some of Viking’s Open yachts (42, 48 and 52) include variations such as sport tower, with a fully composite windshield and open back and sport cruiser, with a fully enclosed bridge deck. For now, the 44 Open will have the standard layout with a wraparound glass windshield and Costa Clear enclosure.

Viking 44 Open
Teak covering boards are an option. The cockpit is also equipped with quick disconnects under the gunwales for easy oil changes. Courtesy Viking Yacht Company

Like all Viking’s, the 44 Open will feature a stout build for bluewater duty. The builder says the yacht will have a resin-infused, vacuum-bagged composite hull. Bulkheads will be cored for weight savings without sacrificing strength.

In addition to her beefy construction, the 44 Open should be beat back those head seas with a fine entry and six feet of freeboard forward. Other notable features include a planing hull form with 13.9 degrees aft deadrise and lifting strakes that should help her run fast and track true in a seaway. Twin 800 hp MAN I6 diesels are the 44’s standard powerplants.

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Anglers will appreciate the vessel’s 119-square-foot cockpit, mezzanine seating, bait and tackle stowage, in-deck livewells and aluminum backing plate for that fighting chair.

Stay tuned to Yachting for a future test of the Viking 44 Open.

Viking 44 Open
The standard layout is two staterooms with a forepeak master. The salon sole is Amtico. Courtesy Viking Yacht Company
Spec Measurement
LOA 45’1″
Beam 16’4″
Top Speed 37.3 knots
Fuel 845 gal.
Water 120 gal.
Viking 44 Open
The tuna tower from Palm Beach Towers is optional on the 44 Open. Courtesy Viking Yacht Company
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