Pogo 12.5 Information, Review, Specs

Built with Pogo's signature lightweight and robust construction, the Pogo 12.5 is characterized by its wide hull and a design philosophy that prioritizes both speed and safety, ensuring it appeals to sailors seeking both adventure and peace of mind on the open ocean.

The Pogo 12.5 began its production in 2011. It is the result of a collaborative design effort between the established naval architecture firm Finot-Conq and Roséo Design. Pogo Structures, founded by Christian Bouroullec, has a rich history rooted in offshore racing, with a consistent drive for innovation and a series of iconic models that redefined segments of the sailing market. Their manufacturing ethos, applied to the Pogo 12.5, involves the exclusive use of 100% vacuum infusion for glass composite hulls, resulting in lighter, stronger, and more consistent laminates. This commitment to cutting-edge construction ensures both performance and durability. Furthermore, Pogo's yachts, including the 12.5, are known for integrating foam buoyancy, making them "unsinkable" – a crucial safety feature for offshore adventurers. The Pogo 12.5 has been offered with variations including both fin and swing keel options, with the swing keel allowing for a draft ranging from 4.59 ft (1.20m) to 9.84 ft (3.00m).

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pogo 12.5 is engineered for high-performance sailing, a characteristic evident in its design ratios. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 34.78, the boat is exceptionally powerful for its weight, indicating superb performance in light air conditions and the ability to maintain speed efficiently. Its displacement to length ratio of approximately 78.46 is remarkably low, signifying a very light and performance-oriented vessel that is quick to accelerate and highly responsive.

Despite its lightweight construction, the Pogo 12.5 boasts significant stability, supported by a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 36.36%. Owners consistently praise its "huge stability" and describe it as "very quick" and "generally very easy to handle". The twin rudders contribute to excellent control and balance, even at high speeds and in varying sea states. Its design, drawing inspiration from Class40 racing yachts, allows it to achieve impressive hull speeds, estimated at 8.58 knots [11,. This combination of power, light displacement, and stability makes the Pogo 12.5 a thrilling yacht to sail, capable of fast passages and exhilarating offshore experiences.

Accommodations and Layout

While built for performance, the Pogo 12.5 also offers a comfortable and practical interior designed for cruising. The interior layout was specifically developed for greater comfort than its predecessors and designed for low-maintenance, setting it apart as a true racer-cruiser. The shipyard offers up to seven different interior versions, ranging from a standard layout with two cabins and one head. Generally, the Pogo 12.5's interior is described as relatively basic in terms of luxurious finishes compared to traditional cruisers, but it prioritizes functionality and space for its intended use. Reviews highlight a comfortable cruising interior, distinct from its Class40 racing lineage, making it suitable for extended voyages and liveaboard periods. The use of materials typically focuses on durability and weight saving, aligning with Pogo's performance ethos.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pogo 12.5 consistently express high satisfaction with the boat's performance and handling characteristics. They commend its speed, ease of handling, and inherent stability, particularly appreciating its ability to perform well across various conditions. The yacht's comfortable motion in a seaway is frequently noted as a significant strength, contributing to pleasant long-distance cruising. Owners value the robust, unsinkable construction, which provides enhanced safety and peace of mind during offshore adventures. While the interior is often described as practical rather than luxurious, it is generally considered comfortable and well-suited for its purpose as a fast cruiser. There are no widely reported recurring major issues or common problems, which speaks to the Pogo 12.5's reputation for solid construction and reliability.