Kraken 66 (Dibley) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Kraken 66 entered production in 2017, following the founding of Kraken Yachts in 2015 by Dick Beaumont, a lifelong sailor driven by a desire to create the "best blue water yachts ever launched." The company's core motivation was to design vessels specifically engineered for the rigors of serious offshore sailing, with safety as the paramount concern. Naval architect Kevin Dibley collaborated with Kraken Yachts to bring this vision to life, with the Kraken 66 being a prime example of his work within the builder's uncompromising philosophy.

Kraken Yachts' manufacturing ethos during this period, as described by the founder, emphasized integrated, proven features and robust construction over unnecessary complexities. A hallmark of Kraken's design, prominently featured on the 66, is the "Zero Keel™" – a full-length, encapsulated lead ballast keel integral to the hull. This construction method enhances structural integrity, minimizes the risk of damage from keel strikes, and even allows for safe beaching, aligning with the builder's focus on offshore resilience. While specific variations like MkI or MkII models are not widely detailed, the Kraken 66 is available with different interior layouts, including four or five cabin configurations, offering flexibility for owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.49, the Kraken 66 is designed as a powerful cruiser rather than a light-air racer. This ratio suggests good drive in moderate to strong winds, ensuring reliable progress on ocean passages, though it might require more breeze to hit its stride compared to lighter performance-oriented yachts. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 33.11%, combined with the integral Zero Keel™ design, contributes significantly to the boat's inherent stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a substantial amount of wind and maintain an even keel in challenging conditions.

The displacement to length ratio of approximately 177.09 places the Kraken 66 on the lighter side for a boat of its substantial length, indicating that it is designed to be relatively easily driven and capable of good speeds for an offshore cruiser. Reviews praise the Kraken 66 for its stable motion and good tracking capabilities, essential characteristics for long-distance voyaging. The yacht is noted for its ease of handling, often featuring a dual headsail Solent rig for versatility across various wind angles and an ergonomically designed deck plan that allows for single-handed operation from the center cockpit while also accommodating a crew efficiently. Sail handling is further simplified by features like in-boom furling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Kraken 66 is designed for comfortable living during extended periods at sea, reflecting the builder's emphasis on generous internal volume. While specific headroom figures are not consistently published, the design allows for spacious accommodations across various layout options. Grounded search reveals that typical arrangements can include four or five cabins, providing ample space for larger families or guests.

The interior layout forward of the saloon often features two bunk cabins and a compact double, catering to the needs of having friends or family aboard for extended cruises. The centre cockpit design not only enhances safety at sea but also allows for a more protected and central living area. The finish quality is generally described as well-detailed, with Kraken Yachts emphasizing a comprehensive standard inventory to ensure the yacht is fully equipped for blue water cruising from delivery, reducing the need for extensive post-purchase outfitting.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and reviewers frequently commend the Kraken 66 for its solid construction and its unwavering focus on bluewater capabilities. Its "nearing zero risk" design philosophy, incorporating features like the integral Zero Keel™, is a recurring point of praise, instilling confidence for offshore passages. The comfortable motion in a seaway and ease of handling, even for a yacht of its size, are also frequently highlighted. Owners particularly appreciate the extensive standard equipment list provided by Kraken, which distinguishes it from many builders who offer basic models requiring significant optional add-ons. For instance, a 9,000-mile cruise from Hong Kong to Cape Town served as a comprehensive shakedown for one Kraken 66, convincing its builder of the yacht's capabilities.