The Kraken is the defining naval boss — it doesn't attack players directly on its first three phases. It attacks the raft's hull grid. That single design decision makes this encounter a structural-defence puzzle rather than a pure DPS check.
The aggro rule
The Kraken's AI uses a dual-threat aggro system. If you attempt to abandon the sinking raft by entering the water column, the Kraken instantly shifts aggro from the structural grid to the player entity, resulting in near-instant hydrodynamic execution. Do not enter the water.
Pre-build mounted ballistics
A Musket alone will not clear the encounter in time. Pre-build at least two mounted ballistics platforms before sailing into deep coordinates. The Titanium Sword is the recommended sidearm for the surface tentacle phase.
Phase 1 — Surface Tentacles
Two tentacles surface; sever each with mounted ballistics or a Titanium Sword. Watch for the telegraph on each strike.
Phase 2 — Hull Rake
A third tentacle sweeps the raft's structural grid, dealing mass hull damage. This is the most dangerous phase for unprepared rafts. Patch grid damage between tentacle phases.
Phase 3 — Below-Water Constrict
The raft shakes. All immobile structures take heavy integrity damage. Keep your Smelter, Purifier, and Bonfire off the periphery of the grid.
Phase 4 — Apex Emerge
The Kraken surfaces. Melee and ranged converge on the head hitbox. This is where your DPS matters — burn it down before the next constrict cycle.