Viking 82 Sky Bridge 2026 Viking 82SB

Boat Overview

The Viking 82 Sky Bridge Convertible merges the adaptability of a convertible sportfish with the elegance of a motor yacht, tailored for both anglers and cruisers who seek the best of both worlds. It is powered by twin MTU 16V2000 M96L engines, delivering speed, efficiency, and range suitable for tournament runs or extended cruising. The sky bridge design provides a fully appointed enclosed bridge with a helm station, lounge seating, refrigeration, and climate control, alongside an open-air command station above for improved visibility and fishing capability.

Cockpit and Interior Features

The expansive 214-square-foot cockpit is tournament-ready, featuring:

• Release Marine fighting chair


• Mezzanine seating with refrigeration


• Freezer


• Ice chipper


• Tackle storage

The interior showcases Viking’s exceptional craftsmanship with contemporary finishes, offering a five-stateroom, six-head layout that includes:

• Full-beam master suite with king berth


• Walk-in closet


• Spa-inspired en suite

A spacious salon features a day head, formal dining area, and a fully equipped galley with Sub-Zero refrigeration, ensuring comfort for entertaining on the water.

Additional Highlights

Notable features include:

• Seakeeper stabilization


• Watermaker


• Bow thruster


• Advanced electronics package

The foredeck is equipped with sunpad seating, while the enclosed bridge and sky bridge offer unparalleled flexibility for both cruising and fishing. The 82 Sky Bridge Convertible exemplifies Viking’s legendary build quality combined with cutting-edge options, setting a benchmark for performance, luxury, and versatility.

Manufacturer Provided Description

The five-stateroom yacht reaffirms Viking as the premier builder of the world’s largest convertible sportfishing yachts. The Viking Yacht Company proudly introduces the 82 Convertible, a five-stateroom, six-head world-traveler that builds upon the success of the Viking 80, elevating the genre to new heights.

“We’ve taken a boat that has been hailed by the sportfishing community as the most successful 80-foot sportfish boat ever and improved upon it,” states Viking President and CEO Pat Healey. “We’ve designed and built a better boat by leveraging our experiences on multiple Viking 80 demo boats and gathering extensive feedback from owners, captains, and mates. Like every new model, the 82 is going to be bad-ass – another industry leader.”

The Viking Yacht Company, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, has delivered over 110 convertibles exceeding 80 feet. The first-generation 82 Convertible was launched in 2009, achieving sales of 27 boats during challenging economic times.

Viking’s largest sportfisher, the 92, debuted in 2014, with 21 units delivered before regulatory challenges halted production. The Viking 80 has seen remarkable success with 54 boats delivered. The new flagship, the Viking 90, has been unstoppable since its recent world premiere, with 16 sold and eight delivered.

The 82 continues to demonstrate Viking's leadership in designing, developing, and producing the largest convertible sportfishing yachts globally. It will be available in three models: open bridge, enclosed bridge, and sky bridge. Hull No. 1 will feature an open bridge model with a Pamlico Blue gelcoat and a custom tuna tower from Viking's subsidiary, Palm Beach Towers. This yacht will debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from Oct. 30-Nov. 3 and will serve as the demo boat.

“Like the 80 and our previous large sportfishing boats, the 82 will prove that a boat of its size can meet the demands of the tournament circuit – and win,” asserts Viking Design Manager David Wilson. “We’ve broken that barrier, and we’re doing it again with the 82, refining and improving every aspect – speed, performance, ride, maneuverability, and fishability.”

Design and Performance

With a length overall of nearly 83 feet, the new convertible presents a sleek and robust profile. Its design features include:

• Gently sloping unbroken S-shaped sheer


• Double strakes and chines


• Molded-in deckhouse and bridge style lines


• Swept-back black metallic mask

The 82 incorporates exterior stylistic enhancements from the 90, including deckhouse windows and hull portlights with chamfered edges, as well as the latest hull-side engine room vent design. The hull sides feature a prominent line that flows through the tinted port light.

Performance has been optimized using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyze the longitudinal center of gravity and pressure distribution, trim angle, and trim tab effectiveness, enhancing running efficiency.

The Viking 82 will also be available with the Advanced Viking Propulsion System (AVPS), which utilizes struts and rudders with modified shapes to reduce hydrodynamic resistance and improve performance. “The strut enhances water flow to the propeller, while the rudder minimizes resistance in the water flow from the propeller,” explains Viking Naval Architect Joe Snodgrass. “These enhancements allow for a larger propeller and increased speed.”

With twin 2635MHP MTU 16V 2000 M96Ls and the AVPS, performance levels are anticipated to match those of the latest Viking 80s – 42 knots at full load with a cruise speed of 36 knots.

“The 80 delivered an exceptionally smooth, fast, and dry ride,” remarks David. “Built at a similar weight to the 80 and benefiting from an additional 2 feet in length, the 82’s ride quality will be even better.”

Construction utilizes fiberglass and carbon fiber/e-glass hybrid fabrics, resin infusion, Light Resin Transfer Molding, and various core materials for optimal strength and weight savings. A modified vinylester/epoxy resin is used throughout the hull for maximum blister protection and structural performance.

“We evaluate each component in the build to optimize the structure for its intended purpose,” states Viking Vice President of Design and Engineering Lonni Rutt. “Every material and construction method is selected for specific reasons.”

Cockpit and Flybridge

The 82 offers increased cockpit space and a larger mezzanine for enhanced storage and a new extended lounge to starboard. The cockpit spans just under 230 square feet and is equipped with:

• Transom door and lift gate


• Transom fishbox/live well


• Full-length in-deck fish boxes with split lids

The Viking 82 is designed for the installation of a Seakeeper 40, accessible via a centerline cockpit hatch with optional electric actuation.

The mezzanine includes ample storage, featuring a tackle cabinet, ice chipper storage box, and a refrigerated step box to port. Access to the engine room is via the centerline mezzanine steps, with two refrigerator and freezer boxes to starboard. The flybridge overhang is designed for guest comfort, with optional air conditioning available.

The flybridge, incorporating many design elements from the Viking 90, features a walkaround center console with a full-width helm platform accommodating three Release Marine helm chairs with teak ladder backs. The 8-inch-high platform provides 360-degree visibility, a clear view of the cockpit deck, and excellent access to all instrumentation. The console’s recessed black acrylic dash holds four 17-inch multifunction displays (MFD). The streamlined, operator-friendly helm includes dual radio boxes with split lids, a teak helm pod, single lever electronic controls, and a stainless steel steering wheel. Air conditioning can also be added to the helm. Hull No. 1 will feature a custom navigation, communication, fishfinding, and entertainment package from Atlantic Marine Electronics, a Viking company.

The 82’s center console includes an integrated full-length forward lounge with standard air conditioning in the backrest and storage underneath, which can be converted into an optional freezer. Dual freezers forward allow for separate bait storage. The forward flybridge also features a convenient sink and refrigerated drink box. Seating modules to port and starboard each provide back-to-back lounges sharing a backrest.

The enclosed bridge (EB) model offers a climate-controlled helm area and a luxurious second salon. Viking has been constructing enclosed bridge convertibles for 30 years, with unmatched industry experience in design, ergonomics, and comfort. Access to the enclosed bridge is via a ladder from the mezzanine to the EB’s aft deck or a staircase inside the salon. The salon features a raised L-shaped lounge with walnut table to starboard, a refrigerator, an HDTV, and ample storage. A one-piece windshield provides clear visibility at the forward control station, which includes a raised black wraparound electronics pod accommodating up to five MFDs. Two double companion chairs flank the centerline Stidd helm chair.

For those who appreciate the salon-like features of an enclosed bridge but also desire the option to operate from an open bridge, the 82’s sky bridge model offers the best of both worlds. The elevated bridge’s port-side console features a fully equipped helm with a recessed black acrylic panel for flush-mounted MFDs. Guests can enjoy the view from a forward L-shaped lounge (with underneath storage), with easy access to a forward refrigerated drink box and sink.

Accommodations

The interior of this exceptional yacht features horizontal-grain natural walnut throughout, available in satin or gloss finishes, with interior doors showcasing horizontal and vertical grains and ebony inlays. Enter the salon from the mezzanine through a port-side electric sliding door, where natural light floods in through the uniquely shaped salon windows. To port, a convenient day head eliminates the need for trips below during fishing excursions. The open-concept design features three distinct gathering areas with a straight walkway extending from the salon door to the forepeak, enhancing the sense of depth and space.

To starboard, a wraparound sofa with storage below and a walnut hi-lo table provides an excellent view of the large port-side HDTV, which rises from the entertainment center cabinetry. Forward on the port side, the dinette accommodates five with plush seating and a walnut table, sitting on a raised platform for an excellent view outside while providing rod storage in a pull-out drawer below.

The fore-and-aft style galley maximizes space with two under-counter refrigerators and one freezer beneath a second dining area with a raised bar and three stools. The outboard counter includes a double-bowl stainless steel sink, electric cooktop, conventional oven, and drawer storage. Additional conveniences include a microwave oven, trash compactor, dishwasher, and upper and lower cabinet storage. A pantry forward of the galley can accommodate a bunk for a third mate or extra guest.

The Viking 82’s larger size is evident in the forepeak, which features five generously appointed staterooms and additional space in the companionway for a dedicated rod and tackle locker and a laundry center. The laundry center includes a full-size stackable washer and dryer with a centralized control panel for easy operation. The rod and tackle locker can be customized to the owner’s specifications, with beautiful walnut doors concealing both spaces.

The full-beam midship master stateroom is accessed via a private staircase off the companionway. This luxurious suite features a king-size walk-around bed, end tables, and an HDTV. Overhead LED lighting with dimmers, decorative indirect rope lighting, and an upholstered headboard enhance the ambiance. Other highlights include port and starboard maple-lined hanging closets and credenzas, a vanity/desk area with stool to starboard, and a seating area to port. The expansive head features twin sinks with seven drawers of storage below, a large walk-in shower, and an optional mirrored ceiling.

All staterooms include their own ensuite head with separate shower. The VIP stateroom forward and the guest cabin aft both feature walk-around queen beds. A guest and crew stateroom are located on the port side, each with upper and lower berths. The crew stateroom is adjacent to the rod and tackle locker.

Engine Room and Mechanicals

From an engineering perspective, the Viking 82 is unparalleled. The engine room, painted in gleaming Snow White Awlgrip, provides excellent visibility and ease of maintenance. There is ample space to access all sides of the 16-cylinder powerplants and numerous components and controls. The engines are mounted to stringers reinforced with integrated aluminum for a robust, clean installation.

The standard 32 kW generators are positioned aft of the engines for optimal center of gravity; their location also ensures outstanding accessibility to hull-side vents. The Murray Ventilation System employs six fans to maximize airflow through the engine room.

The Centralized Seawater System simplifies maintenance and enhances reliability and component longevity throughout the yacht. Viking has collaborated closely with ElectroSea over the years to develop its CLEARLINE System and SeaStrong pumps. The 82 utilizes these seal-less pumps as standard equipment. The yacht is also available with the innovative CLEARLINE System, which uses chlorinated water to prevent marine growth in seawater plumbing lines.

The 82 incorporates many proven systems, including digital switching from Octoplex and the Optimus Electronic Power Steering system. The yacht is equipped with composite seacocks, which eliminate corrosion, increase longevity, and reduce weight. Additionally, the 82 is engineered for numerous systems previously offered as custom installations that are now available as optional and standard components, including omnidirectional sonar, multiple water makers, crushed ice machines, tuna tube bait systems, and extensive refrigerated storage.

Engine Options

CAT / C32AMHP

CAT / C32BMHP

CAT / C32BMHP

MTU / 12V2000 M96X 2002 MHP

MTU / 16V2000 M96L 2635 MHP