Pogo 10.50 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pogo 10.50 entered production in 2008, with 75 units built until 2014, continuing the revolutionary concept established by its predecessor, the Pogo 8.50. The design, a collaboration with Finot-Conq Architectes, was specifically aimed at creating a cruiser that would be rapid on all points of sail and capable in diverse conditions. POGO Structures, founded by Christian Bouroullec, has a long-standing commitment to building modern, enjoyable sailing boats, and the 10.50 perfectly reflects this ethos through its use of cutting-edge construction techniques.

POGO Structures is renowned for its exclusive use of 100% vacuum infusion for glass composite hulls, a method that produces lighter, stronger, and more consistent laminates, enhancing both performance and durability. Furthermore, the integration of foam buoyancy ensures that Pogo yachts, including the 10.50, are unsinkable, providing an invaluable safety feature for offshore sailing. The Pogo 10.50 features a fractional rig, which contributes to easier tacking, a significant advantage for cruisers. Its distinctive twin rudders offer enhanced control, particularly when sailing fast. A notable design element is its centerboard (lifting keel), which allows the boat to access shallow waters, greatly expanding its cruising grounds. The interior layout was developed by Roseo Design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pogo 10.50 is engineered for exhilarating performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 24.0, she boasts excellent light-air capabilities, enabling her to sail effectively in winds as light as 3-4 knots and achieve planing speeds at just 13 knots of wind. Her displacement to length ratio of approximately 86.6 classifies her as an exceptionally light and performance-oriented vessel, diverging significantly from heavier, more traditional cruisers. This lightweight construction, combined with a fine entry and powerful stern, contributes to a theoretical hull speed of 7.87 knots, with actual speeds reported up to 13 knots.

While her ballast to displacement ratio of around 30.6% might suggest less initial stiffness compared to heavier cruisers, the Pogo 10.50 compensates with significant form stability inherent in her wide hull design. This design philosophy, characteristic of Pogo, results in a boat that is "light and very responsive on the helm, easy to steer". Owners consistently describe the 10.50 as a sporty yet forgiving boat, equally well-suited for family cruising, short-handed sailing, or even single-handed adventures. The fractional rig further simplifies sail handling, making her an approachable yacht for a wide range of skill levels.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance-oriented design, the Pogo 10.50 offers practical and comfortable accommodations suitable for cruising. The interior, crafted by Roseo Design, features a bright and spacious saloon, creating an inviting atmosphere below deck. Typically, the layout includes two cabins and one bathroom, providing six berths and a single WC. The focus is on functionality and maximizing usable space within a lightweight structure. While specific headroom figures are not consistently published, the "vast bright saloon" suggests ample space for movement. Reviews of Pogo models often highlight excellent interior finish work, indicating a quality build with attention to detail. Storage is thoughtfully integrated, catering to the needs of both racers and cruisers who value a clean and uncluttered living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Pogo 10.50 for its lively sailing performance and ease of handling, even for single-handed sailors. Its ability to sail well in light winds and achieve impressive planing speeds are commonly cited strengths, reinforcing its "performance cruising" identity. The robust, unsinkable construction, a hallmark of POGO Structures, provides peace of mind on offshore passages. The lifting keel is another highly valued feature, allowing access to shallow anchorages and remote locations that are inaccessible to many other keelboats.

However, some owners have noted minor recurring issues, such as problems with the keel axis circlips, which may require semi-frequent replacement. Despite these isolated concerns, the collective sentiment among Pogo 10.50 owners is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the boat's solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and its capacity for ambitious voyages. The Pogo community often shares a passion for fast, responsive sailing and appreciates the blend of safety, performance, and accessibility that the 10.50 delivers.