Practical Sailorvideo
The ZERO KEEL and ALPHA RUDDER - Are Kraken Yachts Really THAT GOOD?
April 19, 2025 · 9 min · 385K views
What this video covers
Kraken Yachts designs its blue-water cruisers around two primary structural features: the Zero Keel and the Alpha Rudder. The Zero Keel is molded as an integral part of the hull, eliminating the need for keel bolts.4:54 This design features a long chord length for directional stability and a bulb-shaped ballast configuration that lowers the center of gravity, reduces pitching motion, and improves hydrodynamic efficiency.6:06 The Alpha Rudder system utilizes a full-length skeg reinforced with an internal stainless steel beam to protect against debris and grounding.7:33 The system incorporates three bearings, including a main Jepha needle roller bearing that is accessible and replaceable from inside the vessel, allowing for maintenance without hauling the boat.8:11 These design choices stem from the experience of founder Dick, who logged over 150,000 nautical miles on previous vessels including a Tiana 58 and a 66-foot custom yacht, White Dragon.3:00
Boats in this video
More from Practical Sailor
From Practical Sailor — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.