A new builder of luxury long-distance cruising yachts has burst on the scene with an initial three model range from 50-66ft. Kraken Yachts are built in Kaohsiung, Taiwan and Xiamen, China, but the brand’s philosophy is distinctly grounded in the West.

While building in the Far East has helped to significantly reduce costs, these are not intended as cut-price yachts. Instead, a significant effort has gone into producing vessels that are fitted out with a very high standard of equipment and an impressive level of redundancy of systems. For instance, hydraulics are used wherever possible for sail-handling, steering and thruster systems, thanks to their higher level of reliability than electrical alternatives. Power for this comes from an 18kW main generator, plus a 6kW standby generator. In addition, the large bimini-top solar panels will power the refrigeration and freezers systems day and night, as well as giving three hours’ use for the induction hob.

 

Another stand-out feature is what the company has dubbed as the Zero keel system. Instead of being bolted to the bottom of the hull in conventional fashion, the keel is an integral part of the hull moulding and structure. It is therefore not secured with bolts and Kraken claims there is a zero risk of its keels falling off the hull. The encapsulated lead bulb provides a low centre of gravity, along with an efficient hydrodynamic shape. The leading edge and the bottom of the keel moulding are further strengthened with an extensive external multiaxial laminate, incorporating Kevlar reinforcement.

All models in the range are centre-cockpit pilothouse designs, with fairly conventional interior layouts, although all are designed to be as functional as possible at sea. The first boat to be finished will be a 66-footer named White Dragon. A high degree of customisation is possible for interior layouts, all of which include a forward facing interior watch and navigation station, located close to centre of the boat.

 

Length overall 20.12m

Waterline length 18.11m

Beam 5.50m

Draught 2.65m

Displacement 37,750kg

Ballast Weight 12,500kg

Sail Area 215.8 sq m

Headsail (100% foretriangle) 87.10 sq m

Mainsail (including roach) 128.71 sq m

Engine 160hp

Fuel tank 1,900 litres

Fresh water tanks 1,200 litres