Valhalla Boatworks V-28 Bay
Valhalla Boats have quickly cemented themselves as the leader in luxury center-console boats from 28 to 55 feet. A subsidiary of legendary builder Viking Yachts, Valhalla was established in 2019 to apply Viking’s talent for building high-end sportfish in a center-console version. Nothing pairs with your Viking Yacht as nicely as a Valhalla tender, let’s be honest.
Nowadays Valhalla offer seven center-console models, with this 28-foot work of nautical art the entry model in the fleet. The ultimate expression of the brand ethos, the V28 Bay matches the cutting-edge and heavy-duty fishing appeal of an offshore center-console with the deftness and lightness of a versatile bay-boat. A mercurial craft that dances as quicksilver across the shallows, skirting mangrove, marsh and river-mouth, the V28 Bay balances performance and fishing prowess with elegance and comfort. This original concept proved so popular when it was announced that Valhalla sold two years’ worth of pre-orders in the first five days.
To get connected with a JBYS Valhalla Boatworks Sales Professional, please call us at 866-490-5297, email us at Sales@JBYS.com, or use our Contact Us page to find your closest location.
There is no shortage of lockable rod storage on the V-28, which includes up to four rod lockers located under the bow casting deck. The two aft lockers can fit six rods up to 7’ while the two forward rod lockers can fit 10 rods up to 9’ fly rods and can be stowed safely onboard for future use while not sacrificing valuable storage for tackle, gear, and/or cleaning supplies.
Like the current V-Series, the robust helm design will feature premium equipment such as dual 19” multi-functional displays (MFDs) or a single 24” MFD from Garmin and Simrad, a row of backlit labeled Bocatech switches and a fiberglass helm pod (teak and faux teak available). Additionally, a port glove box with 12V and USB outlet and specialty features such as paddle switches on the steering column for effective handling of the standard jack plate(s) and engine trim are standard.
An optional hardtop will be available with the same features as larger Valhalla models. Owners can also opt for a stand-on console 2nd station helm for fishermen looking for a height advantage while sight fishing.
The flexibility of the V-28 is evident. Seating is maximized via an aft casting deck flip-up bench seat, large leaning post or helm seat module, console seat and the ability to add seat cushions and teak backrests for additional seating on the bow casting deck.
It is no secret that trolling motors have become a part of everyday fishing on a bay boat. That is why the V28 is designed with the bow casting deck around the premier 36V trolling motors by Minn Kota, Power Pole, Rhodan and Garmin. A 60ah lithium battery is included in the optional trolling motor package to maximize fish time and minimize the weight of the traditional three 12V AGM battery configuration. The designers also developed a dedicated compartment for the lithium battery located under the bow casting deck.
The Valhalla Boatworks V-28 Bay is set to debut at the Atlantic City Boat Show March 1-5, 2024.
ADMIRING THE EXTERIOR
The V28 Bay’s low presence on the water gives it the look of a stalking shark, while sheer lines to stern are as sleek and as clean as those of a skipping stone, perfectly shaped to zip across the waves. A slightly flared bow has been optimized to carve open swells and keep your guests dry as the vessel accelerates, while finishes including teak brightwork with a precise edge, steel grab-rails with a reassuring sense of solidity and a self-bailing sole add to the high-end feel. Though the gunwale might be low it’s also broad – broad enough, that is, to double as a casting platform, particularly by the pulpit and to transom, where there’s room to cast your line from an elevated position.
There’s also enough width here to host over a dozen flush rod-holders, complementing the elevated rocket launchers attached to both the lean-post and the floating hard-top. Fish storage, as expected, remains best-in-class. To aft there are a pair of back-lit 25-gallon livewells with optional transparent lids, an extra livewell by the bow, and dual plumbed in-sole fish-boxes for above-and-beyond capacity. Add rod-racks and lockers, a trolling motor, a tackle tray and plenty of space to assemble in the cockpit and it’s clear why this boat was a bestseller.
And it’s a true delight to ride. An 18-degree deadrise and a relatively flat hull bottom with a draft of just 22-inches when the engines are down gives this boat the ability to glide over seagrass meadows and to scour those difficult to reach backwaters in search of prey. But this Michael Peters hull also features a Stepped-V ventilated tunnel running surface making it a true flier as you head away from land to vaunt the coastal saltwater swells.
WHAT FEATURES WILL ANGLERS APPRECIATE ON THE V-28 bay?
This is a boat that can also be used to relax and unwind, enjoying afternoons spent fixed to your binoculars spotting sea-birds, manatees and loggerhead turtles. Flip up a transom sofa hidden underneath the rear casting platform to enjoy diamond-stitched seating, or use a bench seat and forward armchair out on the foredeck, which can also be customized to add more seating at the expense of the wide casting platform by the bow. More plush seating can be found under the hard-top, where a cushioned bench-seat with arm-rests faces the modern non-glare helm.
On this hi-tech dash you will find power-assisted steering, Garmin or Simrad MFD screens, Bocatech switches, an optional teak helm pod with a glossy finish, bow and stern thruster controls, a mounted compass and VHF radio. A zero-speed Seakeeper 1 stabilizer is available as an added option, to offer perfect stillness after you’ve assumed the prime angling spot. Hidden beyond the helm console, meanwhile, is a discreet side-door that opens up for access into the boat’s head compartment.
HOW FAST DOES THE VALHALLA V-28 GO?
The helm links to a set of chunky outboard engines to stern, with a range of distinct engine configurations on offer. Some clients will opt for a single motor, while those looking to splurge can opt for up to four separate engines to power this rugged watercraft. Typically, buyers will choose between twin 225HP Mercury Verado V6 outboards, a pair of 200HP Yamaha I4 engines or perhaps a single 400HP Mercury Verado V10 motor for propulsion to match your ambitions. Top speeds should edge beyond the 50mph mark at full-throttle, while a fuel capacity of 130 gallons has been optimized to keep you out on the water for longer.
HOW CAN I BUY A VALHALLA V-28 BAY BOAT?
Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales is proud to be the oldest Viking Yachts dealer in the world, having first started with the American shipyard in 1976. We are committed to providing exceptional service for your Viking or Valhalla and continue to serve the boating community in Michigan, Ohio, and all of the Great Lakes area as a premier new boat dealer for the brands.
JBYS makes it easy to trade-in your boat towards the purchase of a new Valhalla Boat. We also continually stock new boats and have boats on order. You also have the option to completely custom-build your favorite Valhalla with the Viking factory. To get connected with a JBYS Valhalla Sales Professional, please call us at 866-490-5297, email us at Sales@JBYS.com, or use our Contact Us page to find your closest location.
