Kraken 58 (Dibley) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Kraken 58 emerges from a foundational vision articulated by Kraken Yachts' founder, Dick Beaumont, who sought to create the "best blue water yachts ever launched". While specific details on its inaugural launch are still emerging given its 2025 production start, the Kraken 58 was conceived to complement the existing Kraken 50 and 66 models, forming a cohesive range of offshore cruisers. Naval architect Kevin Dibley was entrusted with the critical task of designing the hull, appendages, and rig, working in close collaboration with Beaumont to align with Kraken's core ethos. Dibley's design for the 58 is described as modern yet timeless, prioritizing aesthetics without sacrificing functionality.

Kraken Yachts' manufacturing philosophy, rooted in facilities in Turkey and Poland, emphasizes structural integrity and reliability above all else. A defining feature across the Kraken range, and integral to the 58, is the innovative "Zero Keel™." This full-length, encapsulated ballast keel is an integral part of the hull, rather than a bolted-on appendage, significantly enhancing structural integrity, mitigating the risk of keel-strike damage, and even permitting safe beaching, 19, 21]. Further enhancing safety and performance is the ALPHA™ Rudder System. The company's commitment extends to offering a comprehensively equipped vessel as standard, ensuring owners are ready for immediate blue water voyages without extensive post-purchase outfitting, 2]. The Kraken 58 is expected to offer flexibility in its interior, with options for at least two or three distinct layouts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kraken 58 is engineered for capable and comfortable offshore performance, a testament to its carefully considered design ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio (ratio_sa_disp) of approximately 19.58, she suggests a lively performance profile for a dedicated cruiser, particularly in lighter air conditions, while retaining the power needed for heavier weather. Her ballast to displacement ratio (ratio_bal_disp) of around 0.367 indicates a solid and stable platform, providing comfort and confidence in a seaway, though it leans towards a balanced motion rather than extreme stiffness. The displacement to length ratio (ratio_disp_lwl) calculates to approximately 193.2, placing her firmly in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, which typically translates to a comfortable motion and excellent seakeeping abilities on long passages. The hull speed is rated at a respectable 9.6 knots.

Described as offering "easy handling and performance at all points of sail," the Kraken 58's dual headsail Solent rig is optimized for long-distance cruising, promising versatility and ease of management for extended voyages. Her design, incorporating an "embracing central cockpit," further contributes to her ease of handling, providing a secure and protected space for the crew. Overall, the Kraken 58 is heralded as a "pure blue water cruiser," designed to deliver reliable performance and a comfortable ride across oceans.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not yet widely published, the Kraken 58 is designed to provide "generous internal volume, providing comfortable living spaces for extended periods at sea". As a center-cockpit yacht, it inherently allows for spacious aft cabins and well-separated living zones. Information suggests that Kraken offers multiple interior layouts for the 58, providing options for owners to customize their vessel to suit their cruising style.

Typically, such layouts in a vessel of this size would include multiple guest cabins, a well-appointed main salon, a functional galley, and dedicated head compartments. Notably, at least one of the available layouts for the Kraken 58 features an "Interior Navigation/Pilot Station," which is a highly sought-after feature for blue water yachts, offering a protected command center in adverse weather conditions. Interior design, overseen by Donna Maree, focuses on creating beautiful and practical living spaces. The overall impression is that of a "beautiful yacht and a fantastic design," prioritizing the comfort and functionality essential for extended life aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

As the Kraken 58 is slated for production commencing in 2025, detailed owner reviews and collective experiences are not yet available. The nature of a new model means that feedback from the sailing community will accumulate as these vessels are delivered and undertake their maiden voyages. Therefore, specific strengths, weaknesses, or common maintenance issues from an owner's perspective cannot be reliably reported at this time.