VALHALLA BOATWORKS V-55 PUTS THE MEGA CENTER CONSOLE INDUSTRY ON NOTICE o stranger to innovation and thinking outside the box, Viking Yachts and Valhalla Boatworks never pull back the throttle when there’s an opportunity to improve their model lineup and give their customers what they want. The latest proof of their tenacious drive is the simultaneous launch of new flagship models for both iconic brands. In the picturesque setting and seasonably warm temperatures of South Florida, the all-new Viking 90C (splashed in the Sky Bridge version) joined the debut of the Valhalla V-55 at the company’s annual VIP event. Dealers and vendors were treated to an opening day presser by Viking Yachts President and CEO Pat Healey ahead of the very first opportunity to tour these newest flagships. Healey boasts, “The Viking 90 and V-55 will not only become the leaders in their class, but they’re also going to dominate for years to come. They’re that good.” This show-stopping duo went on to wow the public at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show. Hull 1 of the V-55 is not just a showpiece though, it went straight into demonstration mode, fishing the Viking Key West Challenge and Jimmy Johnson’s Quest for the Ring Tournament in the Spring. Captain Ryan Higgins along with a crew of anglers made up of designers, engineers, and shipwrights from Viking Yachts enjoyed showing off not only the V-55’s features, but its fishability too. ALL IN THE DETAILS Much like parent company Viking, the engineers and managers at Valhalla are well-accustomed to saying yes to customer requests. However, the options list for the all-new V-55 is so exhaustive a customer may find it hard to think of something that Valhalla has not already thought of. Optional equipment includes a fabricated gap tower from Palm Beach Towers, as seen on hull #1. The V-55 is also available in a staggering number of combinations for color schemes including the hull, top sides, hardtop with frame, engine cowlings, and upholstery, plus the addition of faux or real teak to various surfaces and trim. The generous beam provides a platform for many of the great features available on a V-55, including nine Release Marine teak helm chairs in two rows. Wide passageways along the gunnel from the cockpit to the forward seating and bow area offer unhindered movement while fighting a fish. The generous cabin, easily accessed from the starboard side of the helm station, includes a private stateroom, head, galley, dinette and additional sleeping quarters. “You obviously get more comfort out of a large vessel, but with that you usually must sacrifice speed and fishability, but the V-55 encompasses it all,” says 16 BLUEWATER
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