Viking 66' Helm Modernization with the Command Platform

Introduction

Sportfish owners are looking for cleaner helm layouts, unified control, and deeper visibility into onboard systems. The Seaward Automation Command Platform is designed to deliver all of that in a retrofit friendly package.

For this Viking 66, the owner wanted a modernized helm that could run charting, system analytics, digital switching, and remote monitoring from one interface. Our team executed a full marine automation upgrade to bring the vessel up to current standards.

Project Goals

This Command Platform installation focused on:

• Modernizing the helm with a clean and consolidated display layout

• Replacing multiple MFD screens with two 27-inch multi-use monitors

• Integrating engine data through J1939 and NMEA 2000

• Enabling automated fluid and tank management

• Adding real-time remote vessel monitoring

• Creating a scalable foundation for future Axis ecosystem modules

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Helm Layout and Custom Display Fabrication

-A major part of the project involved opening up space on the helm. The previous layout used several MFD screens that created clutter and limited flexibility.

We removed those displays and fabricated a custom aluminum mounting plate for two 27-inch monitors. This produced a simplified and modern helm with more room for: Command Platform interface pages

• Engine analytics and performance data

• Charting, navigation, and system diagnostics

The result is a sportfish helm that feels like a current model year installation.

System Integrations

To support the Command Platform, we completed several key integrations across the boat.

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Digital Switching

All major loads were brought into a unified digital switching system. This reduces mechanical points of failure and gives the owner full control from any screen.

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J1939 Engine Integration

Engine data is now streamed directly into the Command Platform, including:

• RPM

• Fuel data

• Pressures

• Temperatures

• Status alerts

This provides deeper system visibility both at the helm and remotely.

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Automated Fluid and Tank Monitoring

Pump controls, tank levels, and fluid sensors were connected to allow for automated logic and real time monitoring.

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Remote Vessel Monitoring

The Command Platform now delivers alerts for:

• Battery status

• Bilge activity

• Engine warnings

• Electrical load events

• Environment data

• Network changes

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The Viking 66 can now be monitored from anywhere.

Why This Matters

This project does more than refresh screens. It upgrades the entire vessel to a modern marine electronics standard. The owner benefits from:

• Better decision making at the helm

• Centralized vessel monitoring

• Improved safety

• Simplified troubleshooting

• A future ready architecture built for expansion

Partner Support

Thank you to LIS Custom Boatworks for their support in the fabrication and installation process.

Final Thoughts

This Command Platform retrofit shows how a properly integrated marine automation system can transform a sportfish like the Viking 66. Every Seaward Automation install is crafted around the vessel’s unique workflows to deliver a clean, intuitive, and reliable operating experience.

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