OnBoard Magazine - Summer 2015

Surely preferring not to scramble their demo plans for the boat show, negotiations with Viking were not without their snags. At one juncture it seemed the deal was about to go south, both metaphorically and literally, but Bluewater’s Jan Boone stepped in and was able to help right the boat’s course towards Olson. Boone’s actions and determination and James’ dedication to all parties helped solidify what Olson already knew: “Bluewater Yacht Sales is a great company with outstanding values and they stand behind their customers.” Olson recalls nothing but smooth sailing once the deal was in place, “the delivery date for my new Viking was dead-on.” With the deal done, he was once again tasked with the decision of naming his new acquisition. Unlike his prior two pre- owned boats, he had a clean slate to work with, however he couldn’t imagine owning a boat not named Surf Rider . Once again he approached Bennett to ask if he could use the name on his new Viking. Bennett was honored and flattered by the request and without hesitation agreed that Olson could carry on the legacy. FEEDING THE PONIES Mere days after taking delivery of the new Surf Rider, Olson embarked on a three day trip to Annapolis, reporting, “she ran 30 knots up and 30 knots back effortlessly.” Not only is the boat fast, smooth and economical, he also likes the maneuverability and precise control that the pod drives provide, “She’ll go wherever you point her.” He admitted a slight learning curve in moving from a conventional shaft-propelled boat to the pods, but reported that he overcame the joystick’s sensitivity quickly. The visibility afforded by the open air cockpit is superb and making it easy to visualize his approach to unfamiliar docks or negotiate tight spaces. Olson is certainly an individual who enjoys cruising, but it doesn’t necessarily define him. His summers are also filled with some fishing adventures off the continental shelf where he enjoys filling the box with tuna and mahi mahi and releasing the occasional marlin. He is however looking VIKING 42O Length: 42’ 7” Beam: 15’ 10” Draft: 3’ 5” Fuel: 525 gal. Power: Twin Cummins QSC @ 600hp with Zeus Pod Drives forward to taking some more extended cruising forays aboard the new Surf Rider . The next big adventure will be a trip from home base in Virginia to Venice, Florida on the Gulf Coast. He plans to make use of the Okeechobee Waterway to save time and fuel, but there should still be ample opportunity to stop and fish or enjoy a few waterfront restaurants and destinations along the way. When asked what features he might consider in a future boat Olson explains, “I wouldn’t want to go any larger, so I can continue to handle her solo. But, I definitely plan to keep this Surf Rider at least seven years before looking around again. She’s just right.” Joystick controls are hidden away in the dash and seamlessly complement the conventional helm The 42’s engine room is accessed via a nifty actuated lift of the mezzanine steps and seating 39 SUMMER 2015