43 Flybridge

The Viking SC43 Flybridge (called the Viking SC42 until the swim platform was lengthened in 1997) is a UK-built flybridge yacht introduced into the American market at a time when European yachts were rapidly gaining favor with domestic buyers. She’s built on a solid fiberglass hull with moderate beam, prop pockets, and a fully integrated swim platform. The interior was a big departure from most domestic boats of the late 1990s. The two-stateroom floorplan is arranged with the galley down, just across from an elevated lower helm station. Not only does this layout result in excellent helm visibility, it also provides the space for a second head. Low-level windows with mini-blinds in the salon allow outside visibility while seated—a nice touch. On the downside, neither head has a separate stall shower. The cockpit of the SC43 Flybridge is partially shaded by a flybridge overhang and includes a built-in bench seat aft, port and starboard boarding steps, and a transom door. Note that the flybridge is accessed via a curved staircase rather than the traditional cockpit ladder. A good performer, twin 420hp Cat (or 370hp Volvo) diesels cruise at 22 knots (28–29 top).