Yacht Review: Viking 68 Convertible [2006–09]

The 68 is yet another example of why Viking owns the market for big convertibles.

Overview: Finding the right superlatives to describe the Viking 68 Convertible is no easy task — Viking simply builds the best convertible sportfishing yachts in the business. Introduced in 2006 as the successor to the company’s 65 Convertible, Viking designers gave the 68 an accommodation plan similar to the three-stateroom layout of the 65, using the extra 3 feet of length to add a fourth stateroom. Entering the salon through electrically pulsed sliding doors, the 68 is richly furnished throughout with precise teak joinery, premium designer fabrics, and expensive hardware and appliances.

The entertainment center on the salon’s port side contains a 42-inch plasma TV that rises silently from the counter at the touch of a button. Below, a king-size island berth is athwartships in the master stateroom; the VIP forward stateroom boasts an island queen berth; and both guest cabins sport over/under single berths. The 68’s sprawling 186-square-foot cockpit is overlooked by a mezzanine deck, beneath which is a 9.9 cu. ft. freezer, tackle locker, chill box, and engine room hatch. Note the frameless cabin windows. An enclosed bridge was optional. MAN 2400hp V-16 diesels cruise at 35 knots (38–40 knots top).

Price Range: Prices for 2006–07 models start at $1.5 to $1.75 million.

Viking 68 Convertible Layout: