Kraken 58 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Kraken 58 are defined by its heavy displacement and high-aspect rig, designed for "white-water" stability rather than light-air agility. With a displacement often exceeding 30,000 kg depending on the load, the hull provides a sea-kindly motion that minimizes vertical acceleration, a critical factor in reducing crew fatigue during transoceanic passages. According to Dibley Marine, the design focus was on maintaining high average speeds across a wide range of wind angles rather than chasing peak speeds on a reach.

The yacht features Kraken's signature "Zero Keel," an integral hull-and-keel structure where the lead ballast is encapsulated within the GRP molding. Unlike bolt-on keels, this eliminates the risk of keel-bolt failure and provides a massive "sump" for bilge water. Under sail, this translates to a very stiff boat that carries its canvas well into the upper-teens of true wind speed before reefing is required. The "Scimitar" rudder design is another standout feature; it is a full-depth, skeg-protected unit that ensures the boat remains steerable even after a significant impact. While the 58 is not a light-air flyer, its twin-headsail "Reach and Run" rig allows for versatile sail plans, often utilizing a larger reacher for light winds and a dedicated heavy-weather staysail for when conditions deteriorate.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Kraken 58 leverages its nearly 17-foot beam to offer a voluminous living space that rivals many 65-foot yachts. The raised saloon provides 270-degree visibility, a feature specifically requested by blue-water sailors who wish to stand watch from the warmth of the nav station during inclement weather. The interior is typically configured with a master suite aft, featuring a walk-around king-sized berth, and two or three guest cabins forward, depending on the owner’s preference for a dedicated workshop or office space.

Materials throughout the cabin reflect a traditionalist approach to luxury, utilizing solid timber cappings and deep fiddles designed for use at a 20-degree heel. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Kraken 50, the 58 offers significantly more dedicated machinery space, including a walk-in engine room that allows for easier maintenance of the generator, watermaker, and primary propulsion systems. While the hull remains consistent, the interior is semi-custom; some owners have opted for a "galley-down" arrangement to maximize saloon seating, while others prefer the "galley-longitudinal" passage design which provides more security for the cook while at sea.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Kraken 58 is frequently featured in Ocean Sailor Magazine, an editorial outlet founded by Dick Beaumont to promote blue-water safety standards. The development of the 58 was documented extensively as part of the brand’s mission to challenge the "light-build" trends of modern yacht manufacturing. While it has not appeared in mainstream cinema, the model is a staple of high-end cruising discussions regarding "indestructible" yachts and has been featured in technical reviews by Yachting World and Sail Magazine for its uncompromising approach to the integral keel design.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Kraken 58 should focus their inspections on the integration of the complex standard systems that define the brand. Because these boats are delivered "ready to sail" with high levels of equipment, the primary concerns are related to system maintenance rather than structural integrity.

• Hydraulic Systems: Many Kraken 58s are fitted with hydraulic furling and winches. Buyers should inspect all seals and hoses for signs of weeping, as the high-pressure nature of these systems requires periodic professional servicing.
• Integral Tankage: The fuel and water tanks are built into the hull structure. While this lowers the center of gravity and increases capacity, it is vital to check the inspection hatches for any signs of seal degradation or internal baffling issues.
• Keel-to-Hull Transition: Because the Zero Keel is an integral part of the hull, any grounding damage will manifest as GRP scarring rather than bolt strain. A thorough moisture meter test and visual inspection of the keel’s leading edge are recommended.
• Weight Management: The 58 is sensitive to "weight creep." Buyers should audit any post-factory additions (such as additional dive compressors or heavy tenders) to ensure the boat’s trim remains within Dibley’s original design specifications.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners and enthusiasts is the Kraken Owners Group, often facilitated directly through the manufacturer to ensure technical accuracy. Technical resources and safety white papers are primarily hosted by Kraken Yachts, which maintains an active repository of "Blue Water Knowledge" articles. These resources cover everything from the physics of the Zero Keel to the specific rigging requirements for the Solent-style headsail configuration used on the 58.

The Verdict

The Kraken 58 is a specialized tool designed for the 1% of sailors who intend to cross oceans rather than hop between coastal marinas. It sacrifices light-air speed and "dock-appeal" (in the form of massive sugar-scoop transoms) in favor of ultimate structural safety and heavy-weather comfort.

Pros

• Unrivaled Safety: The integral Zero Keel and skeg-protected rudder offer peace of mind that few modern production boats can match.
• Interior Volume: The deck saloon design provides exceptional light and space for long-term liveaboards.
• Blue-Water Ready: Delivered with a high level of standard equipment, including redundant systems rarely found on base-model yachts.

Cons

• Light Air Sluggishness: Its heavy displacement requires significant breeze (12+ knots) to truly wake up the hull.
• System Complexity: The high density of onboard systems requires a knowledgeable owner-operator or a professional maintenance schedule.
• Draft and Size: The deep integral keel and 58-foot length may limit access to some shallower cruising grounds and smaller marinas.