From the rugged coastlines of Norway, Viksund Boats has forged a reputation for building resilient and practical vessels designed to conquer the demanding Nordic seas. Established in 1966, this Norwegian shipbuilder has evolved from a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction to a dedicated producer of robust motor yachts, maintaining its core values of quality and seaworthiness.
Viksund Boats was founded in 1966 by Erling Viksund. The company began its operations from an old farmhouse in Bergen, Norway. Erling Viksund's vision was to create durable boats capable of handling the harsh Norwegian climate. As one of Scandinavia's first fiberglass boat builders, Viksund quickly became a pioneer in the use of Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) in marine construction. The very first Viksund model was the 25 Sabbcruiser, also known as the 25 Combi. This 25-foot vessel was designed as a "sjark," a traditional Norwegian fishing boat featuring a large aft cockpit and a forward-placed wheelhouse. The Viksund 25 Combi quickly garnered acclaim, earning the "Grandest Boat" award from a prominent Norwegian boat magazine, solidifying Erling Viksund's early success and paving the way for future growth.
History and Evolution
Viksund's history is marked by its early adoption of fiberglass, a material that revolutionized boat building by offering durability and reduced maintenance. The company rapidly expanded its production capabilities, building boats not only in Norway but also in Sweden and Sri Lanka. Over its long history, Viksund has produced an impressive 6,000 boats, catering to a diverse clientele that includes Asian and African fishermen, European power yacht owners, and even rescue vessel operators for the Greenland coast.
By the late 1990s, Viksund had re-established itself among Norway's largest boat-building firms. A significant strategic shift occurred around 2000, when the company began to exclusively focus on the production of motor yachts. Today, Viksund Boats AS is owned by Rune Viksund, the son of the founder Erling Viksund, ensuring a continued family legacy in the company's direction.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Viksund boats are renowned for their robust construction, modern design, and ease of use, characteristics deeply ingrained in their design philosophy. Their vessels are specifically engineered to perform reliably in challenging conditions, a testament to their origins in the demanding Norwegian environment. The brand is known for its practical design solutions, aiming to provide a combination of quality and performance for both seasoned professionals and novice boaters alike.
While Viksund has largely relied on its in-house design expertise, famously stated as "the yard's own" for its early models, they have also ventured into innovative hull designs. A notable example is the Viksund 900 Futura, introduced in the early 1980s, which featured a radically new hull design incorporating a bow bulb—an unconventional concept for smaller boats at the time. Today, Viksund primarily produces flybridge yachts, which are characterized by their elevated helm stations providing excellent visibility and spacious accommodations.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Viksund has introduced several models that have left a lasting mark. Beyond the foundational Viksund 25 Combi, other significant models include the Viksund 27 Columbi and the innovative Viksund 900 Futura. In more recent times, models such as the Viksund 320, Viksund 340 St Cruz, and Viksund 360 St Cruz have been part of their lineup. The Viksund 390 is also mentioned as a key model, with its numbering indicating length in feet multiplied by ten.
The company's cumulative production of 6,000 boats underscores its significant impact on the marine industry, particularly in the Nordic region and beyond. Their consistent focus on producing sturdy, reliable powerboats has solidified their legacy as a builder of enduring vessels.
The Builder Today
Currently, Viksund Boats AS operates under the ownership of Rune Viksund and continues its tradition as a builder of powerboats only. The company's main operations are now associated with Askøy Båtsenter AS, located in Strusshamn, reflecting its continued presence in the Norwegian market. Viksund's modern offerings appeal to individuals seeking dependable and high-quality motor yachts that prioritize seaworthiness and practicality. The brand remains committed to delivering boats that combine robustness with contemporary design, ensuring an ownership experience characterized by reliability and performance on the water.
