Impressive trawler. Captain's Report
Tested by Capt. Ron SvobodaTrawlers are known for being spacious, but at the cost of speed. That is all about to change with the introduction of the Krogen Express 52.Recognized for their livable accommodations, the Krogen line has been expanded with the 52. Titled as an Express, the new boat obtains its increased performance from a semi-displacement hull, which is quite a departure from the original full-displacement format that the Kadey-Krogen yard has produced for decades. Most importantly, the increased speed results in better maneuverability and more time enjoying your cruising destination, so it’s not just about the journey anymore.Spacious DeckBoarding the 52 from the stern allows you to appreciate the expansive aft deck. Protected by a hardtop, this teak soled area supplies enough room for a full sized table and four chairs without cluttering the deck. In addition, both aft doors can be opened to expand the entertainment area into the salon, making one very enjoyable living space.Interior FeaturesMoving into the airy saloon, one is soothed by the abundance of solid wood cabinetry and flooring. Large windows allow fresh air and sunlight into the sitting area. Located to starboard, you will find a relaxed, L-shaped settee with ample storage space below the cushions. To port, a pair of recliners offers flexible seating options and compliments the saloon’s coffee table. The Cherrywood table can be quickly converted for dining by opening the leaves and raising the pneumatically assisted top.The U-shaped galley provides excellent working space for the chef and seemingly boundless storage, both above and below the Corian counter top. Krogen also equipped the 52 with full size appliances which include a refrigerator/ freezer combo, microwave, multi-burner cooktop, and oven.The View from the PilothouseThe pilot house is awash with high-end electronics and Cherrywood joinery. The layout is pure functionality, and it’s an easy reach to the controls and instrumentation from the ultra-plush leather Stidd pilot chair. The captain will love the 180 degree view, as will guests seated in the pilot house’s raised settee. This convertible seating area incorporates a high-low table and a pull-out extension that changes the area into a double berth for added guests. Should you decide to pilot the 52 from the flybridge, you are treated to a full compliment of instrumentation and seating comfort for all of your guests. As well as easy access to the deck mounted davit for your dinghy.AccommodationsLocated down a few steps and forward of the pilot house are the staterooms and heads. The companionway serves the guest head to port and the guest stateroom to starboard. This stateroom is available in several layouts to suite your specific needs. Our test vessel was configured with an L-shaped settee that converts into a double berth with a Pullman bunk forward. This format also includes a desk and drawers, making this space a very useful office. The master stateroom is striking, affording 7 feet, 4 inches of headroom. This bright and airy room features a full-size queen island berth, generous storage capacity and an en-suite head located to port.SpecsMeasuring from the swim platform to the front of the large bow pulpit, the Krogen Express is 57 feet, 6 inches long, with a beam of 15 feet, 5 inches wide. Depending on her load, displacement totals to just under 45,000 pounds, while drawing only 4 feet of water. I was most impressed with the 52’s engine room. As an engineer, I enjoy seeing top-notch rigging. Here is a vessel with an impeccable attention to detail and unprecedented access to all the mechanical systems for ease of maintenance and servicing. This quality workmanship was found throughout the boat, from design, to hatches and hardware. So, for long term cruising or live aboard, either way, the Krogen Express 52 delivers the lifestyle at a faster pace.Test Result Highlights
- Top speed for the Krogen Express 52 is 25.8 mph (41.5 kph), burning 42.6 gallons per hour (gph) or 161.24 liters per hour (lph).
- Best cruise for the Krogen Express 52 is 18.4 mph (29.6 kph), and the boat gets 1.02 miles per gallon (mpg) or 0.43 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 596 miles (959.17 kilometers).
- Tested power is 2 x 440-hp Yanmar 6LY2A-STP.
Standard and Optional Features
Systems
| Air Cond./Heat | Standard |
|---|---|
| Battery Charger/Converter | Standard |
| CD Stereo | Standard |
| Dripless Shaft Seals | Standard |
| Head: Fixed | Standard |
| Power Steering | Standard |
| Shore Power | Standard |
| Trim Tabs | Standard |
| Washdown: Fresh Water | Standard |
| Water Heater | Standard |
| Windlass | Standard |
Galley
| Icemaker | Standard |
|---|---|
| Microwave | Standard |
| Refrigerator | Standard |
| Stove | Standard |
Exterior Features
| Ice Chest | Standard |
|---|---|
| Outlet: 12-Volt Acc | Standard |
| Swim Ladder | Standard |
| Swim Platform | Standard |
| Transom Door | Standard |
| Transom Shower | Standard |
Boats More Than 30 Feet
| Generator | Standard |
|---|---|
| Glendinning Cablemaster | Standard |
| Oil Change System | Standard |
| Washer/Dryer | Standard |
Warranty
Full Warranty Information on this brand coming soon!
(It's quick and FREE!)
Member Log In
Join BoatTEST.com as a FREE Member.
You will also get access to our videos and test numbers, the weekly newsletter, access to our comparison feature and much more.
Member Log In