Pogo 36 Information, Review, Specs

The Pogo 36 began its production run in 2016, a testament to POGO Structures' continuous innovation in the performance cruising segment. The design, penned by Finot-Conq, evolved from the shipyard's successful line of offshore racing yachts, including models that have dominated the Mini-Transat and Class 40 circuits. Finot-Conq's vision for the Pogo 36 was to create a boat that delivered true racer performance alongside the conveniences desired by cruisers, notably offering a variable draft option through its lifting keel. This design ethos aligns perfectly with POGO Structures' long-standing commitment, established by Christian Bouroullec, to build modern, enjoyable sailing boats that are accessible and capable, leveraging advanced construction techniques.

POGO Structures' manufacturing process utilizes 100% vacuum infusion for its fiberglass foam core hulls and decks, a technique generalized across their models since 2004., This method ensures a lighter, stronger, and more consistent laminate, contributing to the Pogo 36's robust yet lightweight nature. Furthermore, the integration of foam buoyancy renders the Pogo 36 "unsinkable," providing an invaluable safety feature for offshore sailing., 7] The Pogo 36 is available in both a fixed keel version and a lifting keel variant, with the latter allowing for reduced draft, enhancing access to shallow anchorages., 3]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pogo 36 is engineered for exceptional performance, a characteristic evident in its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 30.44, the Pogo 36 boasts a powerful sail plan for its displacement, suggesting excellent performance in light air conditions and the ability to generate significant speed in a breeze. Its Displacement to Length ratio, a remarkably low 82.74, unequivocally positions it as a very light and performance-oriented vessel, indicative of its racer-cruiser pedigree. While its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 28.65% is relatively moderate, the Pogo 36 compensates with a wide hull form and twin rudders, contributing to its inherent form stability and control. [12,

Sailors consistently praise the Pogo 36 for its exhilarating performance, particularly its "fast cruising fun downwind," with the capability to effortlessly reach speeds of 12 to 13 knots. Anecdotal accounts also highlight surprisingly strong performance upwind and in light airs, demonstrating the boat's versatility across a range of conditions. The design emphasizes ease of handling, with all control lines concentrated for efficient short-handed sailing. Its twin rudders, mentioned in the specifications, enhance agility and responsiveness, making it "a very agile boat" that is "perfect for single hand-handling." [1, This combination of speed, stability, and responsive steering ensures an engaging and confidence-inspiring sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pogo 36 reflects a modern, clean, and functional aesthetic, designed to provide comfort and practicality for cruising without compromising on performance. Reviews consistently note the high quality of the interior finish work, setting a "new standard in Pogo" in terms of design, finish, and functionality, while maintaining a minimalist approach. The layout is described as bright and extraordinarily convenient, benefiting from the yacht's wide beam.

Typical interior arrangements usually feature a forward V-berth, a main saloon area with settees and a table, a functional galley, and a head compartment. The design prioritizes an open and uncluttered feel, with a clean layout that optimizes space. It is noted that in the lifting keel version, the saloon can feel somewhat impacted by the presence of the keel box and its lifting mechanism. Despite this, the overall impression is one of a well-thought-out space that supports comfortable living during extended periods afloat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pogo 36 consistently commend the yacht's solid construction and its comfortable motion in a seaway, reinforcing POGO Structures' reputation for building robust and reliable vessels., 15] The design successfully marries the thrill of fast, responsive sailing with the peace of mind offered by the brand's unsinkable construction. The Pogo 36 has garnered significant acclaim, even being recognized as a European Yacht of the Year contender. The high demand for the model, with reported wait times of over two years, further underscores its popularity and the satisfaction among its owners. Pogo owners typically share a passion for exhilarating sailing experiences, appreciating the boat's ability to excel in both competitive racing and ambitious offshore cruising.