Kraken Yachts emerged onto the marine scene in 2015, born from the singular vision of its founder and chairman, Dick Beaumont. A passionate and experienced sailor since the age of seven, having begun his journey with his father in the Sea Scouts, Beaumont harbored a profound desire to create what he deemed the "best blue water yachts ever launched." His motivation stemmed from a deep understanding that not all yachts can serve all purposes, and the primary objective of a true bluewater vessel must always be uncompromising safety. This core philosophy, aimed at achieving "nearing zero risk" at sea, became the cornerstone upon which Kraken Yachts was founded. While specific details of their very first boat are not widely publicized, the company's inception marked the beginning of a focused pursuit to design and build yachts engineered for serious offshore passages.
History and Evolution
Since its founding, Kraken Yachts has undergone significant evolution, particularly in its manufacturing footprint. Initially, the company's administrative head office was located in Hong Kong, as per the provided data, although some reports suggest a subsequent move to Turkey. Today, Kraken Yachts operates a design and production office in Istanbul, Turkey. This expansion includes a facility in Bodrum, Turkey, dedicated to the production of models like the Kraken 58. In a strategic move to further bolster its production capabilities, Kraken Yachts established a new production hub in Augustow, Poland, specifically for the Kraken 50. This distributed manufacturing approach underscores the company's commitment to scaling its operations while maintaining its rigorous standards for yacht construction. The company's relationship with SU Marine in Tuzla, near Istanbul, a state-of-the-art yacht building facility, further highlights their investment in quality production.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Kraken Yachts has quickly garnered a reputation in the sailing world as a builder of highly capable and safe bluewater cruising yachts. Their design philosophy prioritizes seaworthiness and safety above all else, ensuring that their vessels are robust and reliable for ocean passages. A hallmark of Kraken's design is the innovative "Zero Keel™" – a full-length keel with encapsulated ballast, which is integral to the hull rather than bolted on. This construction technique enhances structural integrity, reduces the risk of keel-strike damage, and even allows for safe beaching.
The company's approach involves integrating proven and tested features into their designs, shunning unnecessary complexities for the sake of reliability. Their yachts are also noted for their generous internal volume, providing comfortable living spaces for extended periods at sea. Kraken Yachts has collaborated with skilled naval architects to bring their vision to life, with Kevin Dibley notable among them. Hakan Çelik serves as the Design & Planning Director, and Karolina Pawlowska is listed as a Consultant Naval Architect, indicating a strong in-house design team dedicated to the brand's unique ethos.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Kraken Yachts has developed a distinct range of offshore cruising yachts, each designed to meet the demands of serious bluewater sailors. Key models include the Kraken 44, Kraken 50, Kraken 58, and the Kraken 66. The Kraken 50, for instance, has gained significant attention as a robust and capable cruiser. While specific production numbers are not readily available, the impact of these models lies in their unwavering focus on providing a safe and comfortable platform for extended voyages. Kraken's legacy is being built on the principle that a yacht should be comprehensively equipped as standard, alleviating owners from significant post-purchase outfitting costs. This commitment to a ready-to-sail experience distinguishes them in a market where many builders offer basic models with extensive option lists.
The Builder Today
Kraken Yachts remains under the leadership of its founder, Dick Beaumont, who continues to serve as Chairman. The company has solidified its position as a specialist builder of high-quality bluewater yachts, appealing directly to discerning sailors who prioritize safety, robust construction, and offshore capability over superficial aesthetics or racing performance. With production facilities in both Turkey and Poland, Kraken Yachts is strategically positioned to serve a global clientele.
The modern Kraken yacht is designed for those who dream of long-distance cruising and ocean crossings, offering an ownership experience focused on confidence and peace of mind at sea. While details on a formal owner community are not prominent in public information, the nature of bluewater cruising often fosters strong, informal networks among like-minded individuals who share a passion for exploration and adventure on the open ocean. Kraken's emphasis on comprehensive standard equipment ensures that owners receive a highly capable vessel, well-prepared for the rigors of the sea, right from delivery.
