Viking 74 Shines

in Tournament Debut

Making a bold entrance onto the tournament stage, the new Viking 74 clinched first place overall at The Shootout – Production vs. Custom in the Bahamas (April 30–May 3). The event featured a 68-boat fleet, including 37 custom sportfishing yachts, and the 74 rose to the top in its very first outing.

Held at the Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina in Marsh Harbour, The Shootout is a high-profile, invitation-only event that pits leading production boats against top custom builds. It’s a release-format competition that attracts some of the sport’s most competitive teams.

“Our team is on an incredible roll, and every win is a testament to our success when competing against some really tough custom boats,” said Viking President and CEO Pat Healey, a demo team member and founder of the demo program.

The victory wasn’t just a win – it was a strong statement. “The boat performs beautifully across the board, but it really shines in a head sea,” said Ryan Higgins, Viking Southeast Sales Manager, former demo captain and current angler. “In 4- to 6-footers, we were walking past other boats. The crew said it’s the smoothest, driest-riding boat they’ve ever run. Sea trialing this boat is an absolute must.”

Captain Sean Dooley (above center), who ran the boat during the event, echoed those impressions. “She doesn’t just punch through – she knifes through the seas,” he said. “You can hold your speed, keep your line, and never feel like you’re fighting the boat. It’s effortless.”

This result reinforces a message: No matter the model, Viking’s semi-custom fiberglass sportfishing yachts continue to win – and they’re doing it when it counts most, with an exceptional combination of performance, innovation and fishing prowess in the most demanding conditions. The Viking 74, which made its public debut at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, proves once again that when it comes to competitive sportfishing, we’re building a better boat every day.

Viking 50 Billfish

Feature-rich and ready to fish. The new 50 Billfish does it all – convertible-level comfort, maximum versatility, Viking engineering, remarkable performance and exceptional build quality. Stay tuned in and learn more about our largest Billfish.

Sea Trial Event

On Wednesday, June 4, we will hold a sea trial event in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and are excited to present the newest member of the Valhalla Boatworks fleet – the 55 Sport Yacht. This groundbreaking new model will be available, as well as both the Viking and Valhalla fleets, for sea trials. Contact your authorized Viking or Valhalla dealer for more information.