A state of the art yacht when she was introduced in 2003, more than a few boating enthusiasts still consider the Viking 45 to be as good as it gets in a midsize convertible. Expecting good things in a Viking yacht comes naturally these days, and the 45 delivers an impressive mix of luxury and performance. Her spacious two-stateroom interior—updated in 2007 with a serving counter in the galley and an amidships master suite—features the same lush teak joinery, rich designer fabrics, and obsessive attention to detail as Viking’s larger yachts. The galley and dinette are forward, and rods stow handily under the L-shaped leather sofa. Undercounter deep-drawer refrigeration, concealed appliances, solid surface countertops highlight the galley, and frameless windows are capped with upholstered valances that conceal the air-conditioning ducts. A laundry center is located at the base of the companionway steps, and both heads have separate stall showers. The 119 sq. ft. cockpit features a tackle center, bait freezer, in-deck livewell and fish box. Note the chill box in the salon step. Helm visibility is exceptional. MAN 900hp Common Rail diesels cruise at 28–30 knots (low 30s top).