Pogo 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Pogo 40 began in 2005, marking a significant milestone for Pogo Structures. The shipyard, established in 1987 by Christian Bouroullec, had already earned a reputation for its innovative approach to sailboat construction, particularly with its dominant Pogo 6.50 and Pogo 8.50 models. The Pogo 40 was launched the same year the Class 40 rule was finalized, conceived for both grand voyages and high-speed performance, drawing on Pogo's deep roots in ocean racing.

Designed by Finot-Conq, the original Pogo 40 and its racing variant, the Pogo 40S, were initially developed even before the Class 40 rule was fully codified, meaning they did not fully exploit all the maximums allowed by the eventual regulations. This early iteration proved incredibly successful, with 45 units built between 2005 and 2009. Pogo Structures' commitment to advanced construction was evident in the Pogo 40, which benefited from the yard's generalization of the vacuum infusion technique across all models in 2004, resulting in lighter, stronger, and more consistent fiberglass foam core hulls and decks.

Over its production lifespan, the Pogo 40 has evolved through several generations to adapt to changes in the Class 40 rule and advancing design principles. Following the initial version, subsequent iterations included the Pogo 40S2 launched in 2010, the Pogo 40S3 in 2013, and the latest Pogo 40S4 designed by Guillaume Verdier. While the first version featured a bulb keel with a deep maximum draft of 9.84 feet, Pogo Structures also offered cruising variants with optional shallow draft or lifting keels for greater versatility. The design's twin rudders are a hallmark of modern performance boats, offering enhanced control, especially when planing at speed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pogo 40 is unequivocally a performance-oriented sailboat, designed to be fast and responsive across a range of conditions. With a displacement of 10,582 pounds and a waterline length identical to its length overall at 39.96 feet, the boat boasts an exceptionally low Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 166. This figure places it firmly in the category of lightweight, easily driven hulls, indicating excellent speed potential, particularly in planing conditions.

The boat's ballast system is noteworthy, utilizing both lead in its bulb keel and water ballast, a common feature in Class 40 designs to optimize stability dynamically during racing. While a precise fixed ballast to displacement ratio for the original model is not specified, its deep draft and overall design speak to its offshore stability. Owners and reviewers frequently praise the Pogo 40 for its exhilarating speed and its ability to cover significant distances swiftly.

However, as with many high-performance designs, the Pogo 40's handling characteristics are optimized for speed. Its wide, light hull, while excellent for downwind planing, can make for a "real work and very uncomfortable" experience when sailing hard upwind in waves, with some owners noting a tendency for the boat to yaw. The boat is typically equipped with tiller steering, which, while offering direct feedback and control appreciated by performance sailors, may require an adjustment period for those accustomed to wheel steering.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pogo 40 reflects its racing heritage, prioritizing functionality, weight saving, and open space over luxurious finishes or extensive amenities. The design is often described as "spartan" and "optimized for shifting ballast," particularly in its racing configurations. Despite its minimalist approach, the boat offers a surprising amount of usable space for a 40-foot racer. Reviewers have remarked on the "true miracle regarding space" below deck for a boat of its size, attributed to its wide hull form.

Typical layouts usually include a basic V-berth forward, a central salon area that may double as additional sleeping space, a compact galley, and a marine head. Given the focus on performance, storage is generally practical rather than abundant, designed to stow essential gear securely for offshore passages. Ventilation is achieved through deck hatches and portlights, which on some Pogo models feature distinctive faceted designs. The materials predominantly used are fiberglass for structural elements, with minimal wood trim, reflecting the emphasis on durability and ease of maintenance in a high-stress marine environment. A single companionway, as seen on later versions like the Pogo 40 S2, further contributes to lightness and efficient sail handling.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pogo 40 consistently laud its exceptional sailing performance and solid construction, which is a hallmark of Pogo Structures' build quality. The brand's commitment to "unsinkable" foam buoyancy provides an invaluable safety feature, contributing to peace of mind during offshore adventures. The Pogo 40 quickly became one of the most prolific and popular Class 40 boats, indicating high owner satisfaction and a strong community among its enthusiasts.

However, prospective owners should be aware of the boat's primary design intent. While capable of cruising, its racing pedigree means that comfort in challenging upwind conditions is secondary to speed. Some owners transitioning from more traditional cruising yachts might find the lively motion and tiller steering require adaptation. Converting a Pogo 40 from a dedicated racer to a more comfortable cruiser often involves modifications, and its open, functional interior might be considered too stark by those seeking luxurious accommodations. Despite these considerations, the Pogo 40 remains highly regarded by sailors who prioritize exhilarating, fast, and responsive sailing experiences on the open ocean.