I have lost track of how many times I���ve visited the Viking Yachts factory in New Gretna, New Jersey. I���ve been through a number of boatbuilders, but I especially like my visits to Viking. Maybe it���s the homemade lunch from the cafeteria���the chicken caccciatora is one of my favorites���or the fact that Viking���s management basically grants open access to their operation. They simply want you to see how they���re building boats and how they are different than other builders. I���ve left that place covered in fiberglass flakes and sawdust, while grinning from ear to ear.

One take away from my Viking tours is that this is a family company. Viking is still run by the Healey family, with Bill Healey serving as president, his brother Bob is the chief operating office, and Bill���s son Pat is the executive vice president, responsible for day to day operations. Their imprint and passion is evident throughout the factory. Remarkably, Bill still tries to greet workers as they leave work at the end of the day. The Healey���s also walk the production line, reviewing the building process, paying close attention to each model. If it���s not going to work at sea, they don���t want it. I think when you have your name associated with a product, especially your family, there is an innate sense of responsibility for the product.

It was during a factory visit that I ran one of the first Viking 48s, and I think it represents the Healey's philosophy. First, Viking builds as many of the components that they can in-house, instead of relying on outside vendors. One reason is that it helps control costs. Therefore Viking is not at the mercy of a vendor price hike. And they are also able to control the quality of items like cabinetry and stainless steel. There is nothing more frustrating than having a problem with your new boat, only for the builder to pass it off on a supplier. More importantly, Viking's engineers can design a component, and then build it specifically for that boat. For instance, by designing their own fuel tanks,Viking can utilize 95 percent of the tank capacity, where many boats are hard pressed to get 90 percent.

This thinking also demonstrates another Viking mantra���customer service. Yes, I know this is a clich√� of sorts and there is no boatbuilder deliberately trying to make an unhappy customer. But you have to put your money where your mouth is, and Viking has. I���ve heard from Viking owners about how factory personnel and dealers have chartered planes to get parts to remote cruising grounds. Talking about going the extra mile.

As one of two Viking models under 50 feet, the 48 benefit from this corporate ethos and a ���designing down��� process. The first new model introduced as part of a major overhaul five years ago was the 65 convertible. Design elements from this model are evident in the 61, 56, 52, 48, and the 45.(A new 74 and 68 have just been launched as well) And just because a model is smaller, doesn't mean Viking will try to build it on the cheap. Thus a 48 will share many of the same components as a larger sister. Viking has identified a layout in the saloon area that works well. The basics include a large galley, plush settee, and a dinette opposite the galley. The smaller models are nipped and tucked a little bit, but the overall arrangement is very functional across the product offering. The 48 is available in a two stateroom or three stateroom arrangement plan.

But before you think that these are gin palaces, I need to mention the engineroom. Bright white Awlgriped surfaces are easy to clean, and enable leaks to be spotted early on. There is 22 inches between the two engines, and 25 inches in some spots to get to the outboard side of the engines.

The heart of any convertible design is the cockpit, and anglers and cruisers alike will be pleased with the 48's 130 square foot, properly designed, amenity filled cockpit. A cruising speed in the mid-30 knot range will get you to the biting fish or a secret cove in no time. Viking offers several engine options. Spending a million plus on a boat is a sizeable investment, so it's gotta be a great feeling to know you have the Viking family behind you and their heart and soul in each model.
Contact: Viking Yachts, (609) 296-6000; www.vikingyachts.com.