Kadey-Krogen Yachts: Pioneering the Art of Bluewater Passagemaking
For decades, Kadey-Krogen Yachts has stood as a beacon in the world of long-range cruising, synonymous with robust construction, unparalleled seakeeping, and a commitment to "At Home on Any Sea" comfort. From its visionary beginnings to its current standing as a leader in full-displacement trawler yachts, the company has consistently delivered vessels that embody the spirit of adventure and the comforts of home.
Kadey-Krogen Yachts was founded in 1976 by the astute yacht broker Art Kadey and the highly experienced naval architect Jim Krogen. Art Kadey brought extensive marine experience in boatbuilding, yacht charter, and brokerage, along with crucial connections in Taiwan. Jim Krogen, a graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in naval architecture and marine engineering, possessed three decades of commercial design experience. Their shared vision was to create a new class of recreational trawler yachts that prioritized efficiency, safety, and comfort for serious bluewater cruising, a segment largely underserved at the time.
The company's first boat, the Krogen 42', launched in 1977. This pioneering vessel was conceived to merge proven commercial ship design elements with innovative concepts for recreational use. Its robust construction, resembling that of commercial shrimp trawlers, was designed to respect the sea and endure diverse conditions. The hull and cabin sides of the Krogen 42' were built using fiberglass-sandwich construction with a closed-cell PVC foam core, featuring a heavy, hand lay-up of mat and roving, which provided buoyancy, insulation against shock, sound, and temperature, and a quiet, comfortable ride. The Krogen 42' would go on to become Kadey-Krogen's best-selling model, with 206 units built over the years.
History and Evolution
Following its inception in 1976, Kadey-Krogen Yachts quickly established itself within the cruising community. Early years saw the passing of co-founder Art Kadey in 1981, followed by Jim Krogen in December 1994. Despite these losses, the company's foundational design principles endured.
A pivotal development in Kadey-Krogen's history was the establishment of a dedicated manufacturing partnership in Taiwan. The relationship began as early as 1973 when Art Kadey and Jim Krogen met builder Lin Kao Shui at the Annapolis boat show. Lin Kao Shui's family-run Asia Harbor Yacht Builders, officially established in 1988, became the exclusive manufacturer for Kadey-Krogen in 1991, purchasing their current facilities in 1992. This long-standing collaboration highlights a commitment to consistent quality and craftsmanship, with Asia Harbor Yacht Builders having built over 600 Kadey-Krogen yachts to date.
Ownership of Kadey-Krogen Yachts transitioned from Jim Krogen's children and their partners (1995-2006) to John Gear, Larry Polster, and Tom Button in 2006. In 2021, a new ownership structure was announced, reinforcing continuity and investment in the brand's future. The Kadey-Krogen Group has also expanded its portfolio, acquiring American Tugs, further diversifying its offerings in the marine market.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Kadey-Krogen's reputation in the sailing world is firmly rooted in its unwavering commitment to producing comfortable, safe, and long-range capable trawler yachts—often referred to as "passagemakers". The core of their design philosophy revolves around the "Pure Full Displacement" hull, which is renowned for its seakindly motion and ability to handle mercurial offshore conditions. This design enables Kadey-Krogen yachts to make ocean passages in comfort and safety, with owners reporting crossings of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea.
Signature design features include a fine forward entry, a distinctive wineglass transom, and a fully covered aft deck, often affectionately termed the "back porch". Internally, Kadey-Krogens are known for their high-quality interior joinery, predominantly in teak or cherry, and innovative layouts that prioritize liveability and ample stowage. Many models boast stand-up engine rooms, a feature highly valued by owners for maintenance and accessibility. Up to 75% of Kadey-Krogen owners use their yachts as part- or full-time liveaboards, testament to the brand's focus on creating a home-like environment at sea.
Throughout its history, the company's primary naval architect and designer was co-founder Jim Krogen. His commercial design background profoundly influenced the yachts' robust and seaworthy characteristics. More recently, Earl Alfaro has been announced as the new Naval Architect for The Kadey-Krogen Group, continuing the legacy of thoughtful design. Construction emphasizes heavy, hand lay-up using fiberglass-sandwich construction with closed-cell PVC foam core, often incorporating materials like Aramid (Kevlar) in the hull for maximum strength. The company's manufacturing process has evolved to include full equipment installation at the factory, ensuring seamless commissioning.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Kadey-Krogen has developed a portfolio of iconic models that have left a significant mark on the trawler yacht market. The Krogen 42' stands as the foundational model, launching in 1977 and becoming the company's best-seller with 206 units produced. Its success paved the way for subsequent designs.
Other notable models include:
- Krogen 38' Cutter (1981): A shoal-draft cruiser designed by Jim Krogen as a labor of love, featuring centerboards for versatile island-hopping.
- Krogen 36 Manatee (1984): A popular coastal cruiser known for its roomy accommodations and innovative design prioritizing natural ventilation.
- Krogen 54 (1988): Targeted at extended voyaging, this model introduced features like an available den and a large, open-plan galley and saloon, which became widely adopted in the industry.
- Krogen 48 Whaleback (1993): Distinguished by its full-beam saloon, enclosed main deck, and a spacious pilothouse with a Portuguese bridge.
- Krogen 48 North Sea (1995): A design highly regarded by professional mariners and experienced ocean voyagers for its proven capabilities.
- Krogen 39' (1997): Brought the serious Pure Full Displacement hull to a new class of cruiser, suitable for couples or single-handers. 51 units were built between 1998 and 2008.
- Krogen 58' (2000): Designed to serve as a home away from home or even a primary residence, balancing long-range capabilities with generous space and comfort.
- Krogen 44 (2004): A perfected evolution of the pioneering 42', embodying the brand's essence as a great sea boat, transoceanic voyager, and comfortable liveaboard.
Since 2008, Kadey-Krogen has continued to innovate with models such as the Krogen 55 Expedition, Krogen 52, Krogen 48 AE, Krogen 44 AE, Krogen 58 EB, and the Krogen 50 Open (2018), maintaining their core philosophy of Pure Full Displacement hulls and meticulously finished interiors. The company currently offers six production models, ranging from 44 to 58 feet, with designs extending up to 70 feet.
The Builder Today
Kadey-Krogen Yachts remains a privately owned and operated company, headquartered in Stuart, Florida, with additional offices in Annapolis, Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and Seattle. Unlike many boat manufacturers, Kadey-Krogen operates a direct sales model, working individually with customers rather than through a dealership network. This approach fosters a closer relationship between the builder and the owner.
The modern Kadey-Krogen yachts continue to appeal to a discerning clientele seeking safe, comfortable, and efficient vessels for extended cruising or full-time liveaboard use. The ownership experience is significantly enhanced by a strong and active owner community. Organizations like "Krogen Cruisers," a non-profit social group, provide a platform for owners and enthusiasts to connect and share their passion for the brand. Kadey-Krogen actively supports this community, regularly hosting rendezvous events that bring owners together from across the globe. This vibrant community underscores the enduring legacy and the deep connection owners feel to their Kadey-Krogen vessels, truly making them "At Home on Any Sea".
