HISTORY & DESCRIPTION:
The Viking Class dates from the mid 1950’s although, over the years the designer, Alan Buchanan modified and improved the overall lines to provide a good cruising yacht that rated well under the RORC rule. The Viking Class has an excellent record for racing, winning many off-shore events during the 1960’s & 1970’s. They have an easily managed masthead sail plan and are stiff, powerful sea boats. Examples have been built throughout Europe which cruised in the Mediterranean and Baltic. In 1962 a Viking completed a transatlantic passage and cruise in the West Indies.
The Viking is a great sucess story for Alan Buchanan who produced this good all-round quality design.
Merle Rose, was built in 1968 to Lloyds 100A1 for G Erles and J Morley of Wells Hall, Sudbury, Suffolk. She remained in class until October 1978. Merle Rose raced under sail number 1160 by her joint owners throughout the 1970’s before passing in to the hands of family members Mr & Mrs G E Morley during the 1980’s.
Traditional carvel construction, mahogany hull, copper fastened to steamed oak timbers. Swept teak laid deck over marine ply with oak and spruce deck structure. Iroko frames to bulkheads and steel strap floors. Mahogany brightwork. Iron ballast keel.
Extremely original interior offering accommodation for four in two separate cabins, with mahogany joinery.
Heads compartment.
Galley with two burner cooker, sink unit and pantry lockers.
Chart table to starboard with navigation gear, VHF radio, new in 2011. Sounder and GPS.
Masthead rig, with furling headsail. Alloy mast. Spruce boom. New halyards and sheets. New Olympic, UK sails in 2010, Mainsail, Genoa and Jib. 2007 Spinnaker.
24hp Volvo Penta (1998) rebuilt in 2006 with about 560 hours since. Two new batteries. New Frigo engine pump.
Full safety for Italian legislation within 12 nautical miles.
6 person liferaft.
Stainless steel pulpit and pushpit, deck stanchions.
BROKERS NOTE:
The Viking Class has a deservedly good sailing reputation and as such are sought-after and desirable yachts. This example, presented in excellent condition races and cruises off the North coast of Italy close to Venice. View highly recommended.
Guide: £17,750
Lying: Northern Italy
Viewing: Through the brokers
