Kraken 58 nominated for 2026 European Yacht of the Year
09 25 Topic: Press Release
New Zealand yacht designer Kevin Dibley has reason to celebrate, with his Kraken 58 design named a nominee for the 2026 European Yacht of the Year Awards. The yacht, already launched and bound for Malta, now faces rigorous sea trials in the hands of twelve leading European magazine judges.
Read the Boating NZ article by Kirsten Thomas for Boating New Zealand
The European Yacht of the Year Award is widely regarded as the most prestigious recognition in the sailing world. Since its inception in 2004, it has set the benchmark for new yacht design. Unlike many awards, this one demands every nominee is thoroughly tested under near identical conditions, making victory all the more meaningful.
For 2026, the Kraken 58 has been named among the select few to undergo these trials. The first hull, freshly launched and bound for Malta, will soon face the scrutiny of twelve judges representing Europe’s leading sailing magazines. Winners will be announced during Boot Düsseldorf in January, the largest yacht exhibition in Europe.
For Kiwi designer Kevin Dibley, whose Auckland-based studio has earned global respect, the recognition reinforces New Zealand’s reputation as a hub for innovative yacht design.
Read More …
Read the Boating NZ article by Kirsten Thomas for Boating New Zealand
The European Yacht of the Year Award is widely regarded as the most prestigious recognition in the sailing world. Since its inception in 2004, it has set the benchmark for new yacht design. Unlike many awards, this one demands every nominee is thoroughly tested under near identical conditions, making victory all the more meaningful.
For 2026, the Kraken 58 has been named among the select few to undergo these trials. The first hull, freshly launched and bound for Malta, will soon face the scrutiny of twelve judges representing Europe’s leading sailing magazines. Winners will be announced during Boot Düsseldorf in January, the largest yacht exhibition in Europe.
For Kiwi designer Kevin Dibley, whose Auckland-based studio has earned global respect, the recognition reinforces New Zealand’s reputation as a hub for innovative yacht design.
Read More …