1990 Viking 53 Convertible

1990 Viking 53 Convertible Sport-Fishing Yacht - A rare opportunity to acquire one of the most comprehensively documented and upgraded Viking 53 Convertibles on the market.

Ready to Go!

The 1990 Viking 53 Convertible is a premier offshore sport-fishing yacht built by Viking Yachts of New Gretna, New Jersey - one of the most respected names in American boatbuilding. This vessel represents the pinnacle of late-1980s/early-1990s convertible design, blending serious fishing capability with comfortable cruising accommodations. The Viking 53 stands out for its reliable performance and robust construction, with confidence in handling across a wide range of conditions and genuine long-range capability for extended offshore voyages.

Hull & Construction

Built on a solid fiberglass deep-V hull with a wide beam of 16.6 feet, the Viking 53 delivers a smooth, seaworthy ride in the demanding offshore conditions serious anglers require. Viking's hand-laid fiberglass construction and reputation for structural integrity made this model a standout among its contemporaries. This premier offshore sport-fishing yacht has been soda blasted and treated to 5 coats of Pettit Triton bottom paint (2023), with recoats in 2025 and 2026. All plastic thru-hull fittings have been replaced with Gemlux stainless hardware, and a Vetus 24V bow thruster was added in 2018. The boat is stored on the hard each December through April, protecting the hull during the off-season.

• LOA: 53.42 ft
• Beam: 16.6 ft

Performance & Engines and mechanicals

Twin MAN 820 hp inboard diesels offers exceptional performance for a 53-foot convertible. Engine hours stand at approximately 3,905-3,931 per side, with rigorous annual servicing (oil samples, transmission service) carried out every year from 2022 through 2026. Notable engine and drivetrain work includes: Onan 20K w/4100 hours

• Port engine major overhaul (2017, receipt in hand)
• Transmission dampers/coupler replaced on both sides (port 2024, starboard 2017)
• (2022) New injector lines, serviced injectors, valve adjustment, new bundle and tank - starboard
• Upgrade fuel filter assembly on both engines, new belt
• Serviced fuel coolers
• Powder coated both engines valve covers
• New raw water feed hoses, replacement of soft cooling lines on both engines
• Changed trans oil
• Dripless shaft systems with spares; cutlass bearings replaced
• Props conditioned, balanced, and prop-speed coated
• (2023) Annual service on both engines and trans, oil samples sent out
• Bennett trim tab actuators, tank, and digital displays (2023)
• New Zincs
• Spare set of 3-blade propellers included
• New Generator exhaust line to stern
• Rudder packing replaced
• Circular water pump starboard side
• (2024) Annual service on both engines and trans and engines, oil samples sent out
• Water pumps serviced
• New hot water heater and pressure tank
• (2025) Annual service on engines and trans, oil samples sent out
• Prop speed on all running gear, recoat bottom paint
• (2026) Annual service on engines and trans, oil samples sent out
• Shaft Zincs

Tanks & Range

The 1,100-gallon fuel capacity provides genuine bluewater range, supporting extended offshore passages without concern.

• Fuel: 1,100 gallons
• Fresh Water: 250 gallons, replaced water tank lid
• Holding: 150 gallons, replaced holding tank lid added 3-point sensor

Fishing Cockpit

The heart of this boat is its spacious, purpose-built cockpit - one of the largest in its class at the time of construction. Features include transom door, livewell with rebuilt macerator pump, in-deck fishboxes, outrigger mounts (repaired 2023), and a tournament-ready layout. A Simrad NSX 7" display is mounted in the cockpit for helm-independent navigation. Rod holders, tackle storage, and ample fight-deck space round out the offshore capability. Rule Auto-Sense 2000 bilge pump _mid-bilge) plus 2 new 2000 manual/auto pumps (bow and stern, 2022)

Flybridge & Electronics

The expansive flybridge offers commanding 360-degree visibility and has been completely re-upholstered (2024) with a new all-side polycarbonate enclosure (7 panels) back panels 40ga, and new aft backdrop and pole shades.

The electronics suite is fully modern:

• 3× Simrad NSS Evo3 12" displays, 1× NSX 12", 2× NSX 9" (bridge)
• 2× Raymarine Axiom 7" displays
• Halo 6' radar array + FLIR
• 2× Simrad VHF/AIS units
• Simrad NAC-3 autopilot
• Starlink High Performance satellite internet (2024)

Electrical, Lighting & Audio

• JL Audio system: 2 amps (600/6), two M6 10" subs, six 7.7" and two 6.5" M6 speakers, Fusion RA770 head unit
• Lumitec x2 Spectrum underwater lights (×4)
• LED deck flood lights and go-light/spotlight on hardtop
• Poco controller for full LED lighting management
• New bridge and cockpit recessed spectrum color lights
• Group 31 battery added for bridge power
• Glendinning shore power cord with wireless remote (2023)

Interior & Accommodations

Below decks, the Viking 53 offers a well-appointed interior with 3 staterooms and 2 heads. The salon was refit by a previous owner in 2015 and received a new A/C system, line set, and coil in 2022. The forward cabin received a new headliner with LED conversion in 2024, and all cabins have new carpet. Both heads feature rebuilt Vacu-flush systems (2022). A new hot water heater and pressure tank were installed in 2024, along with a custom bed in the master stateroom. Teak and holly sole and quality woodwork throughout reflect Viking's enduring craftsmanship standards.

Maintenance Record

This vessel has been maintained to an exceptional standard, with over $250,000 in documented receipts for upgrades and repairs. Annual engine and transmission service has been performed every year since the current owner's purchase in September 2021, with oil samples sent out each cycle. All paperwork is available.

A rare opportunity to acquire one of the most comprehensively documented and upgraded Viking 53 Convertibles on the market and Ready to Go!