By Jack Vitek

I had the opportunity to step aboard the new Viking 50 Billfish just days before the Viking VIP event in January 2026, running in and out of Lake Worth Inlet with an accomplished crew. At the helm was Viking demo team captain Sean Dooley, fresh off a record-setting run in the Dominican Republic, joined by veteran boat editor Pete Frederiksen and longtime Uno Mas mate Christian. We eased out of the inlet and pointed the bow south down the beach, greeted by classic South Florida winter conditions: calm seas, high sun, and just enough breeze to put a little texture on the water.

A Cockpit Built to Fish

The cockpit is one of the defining features of this model. At 170 square feet, it is exceptionally large for a 50-footer and immediately reinforces the boat’s fish-first design. The layout is purposeful, with large in-deck fish boxes, ample refrigerated and freezer storage, and a well-positioned tackle center. The mezzanine seating adds both comfort and function, giving the crew and guests a natural gathering spot without interfering with the working area.

The Salon

Inside, the salon reflects Viking’s consistent attention to detail. Warm walnut joinery, abundant natural light, and a clean, balanced layout create an inviting yet highly functional space. The raised dinette with rod storage below, portside lounge, and split galley arrangement maximize usability while maintaining an open feel. It’s a layout that supports extended time aboard without detracting from the boat’s primary mission offshore.

Accommodations

Below deck, the two-stateroom configuration is both practical and refined. The forward master features a walkaround queen berth with an ensuite head, while the port guest stateroom offers upper and lower berths. The option to replace additional sleeping space with dedicated tackle storage is a smart choice for serious anglers. On this build, the tackle storage deserves special mention. It is immaculate, thoughtfully arranged, and executed to a level that can only be described as a true work of art.

The Flybridge

Up top, the flybridge continues the theme of purposeful design. The center-console-style helm offers excellent visibility, particularly into the cockpit, which is critical when fishing. Seating is well placed and unobtrusive, keeping the working environment clean and efficient.

Electronics

This build is comprehensively outfitted. To cover just the highlights: Garmin MFDs paired with Furuno radar and omni sonar, along with AIS, Starlink connectivity, and a fully integrated network. The result is a serious, tournament-ready package designed to maximize both situational awareness and fish-finding capability.

Power and Performance

Built on the proven 50-foot hull and powered by MAN V8-1200s turning VEEM five-blade props, the boat delivers a ride that is quiet, comfortable, and confident.

During our sea trial off Lake Worth in 1–2-foot seas and a light breeze, the numbers backed up the feel. The boat reached a top speed of approximately 38 knots at around 2,350 RPM and settled into a comfortable 33.5-knot cruise at 2,100 RPM, burning right around 102 GPH.

Handling was equally impressive. The boat tracked cleanly in reverse, responded tightly through turns, and felt solid and predictable throughout. One of the standout impressions of the day was how quietly the boat runs. Whether on the bridge or in the cockpit, noise levels stayed remarkably low, allowing easy conversation and a more refined experience underway, something that becomes increasingly valuable on long runs and extended fishing days.

The Verdict

The Viking 50 Billfish is a well-executed evolution of the series, offering more space, capability, and refinement while staying true to its fishing roots. As this boat heads to Kona, I look forward to seeing what the Uno Mas team accomplishes with their newest addition, one poised to become another formidable weapon in their offshore arsenal.

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