Cougar Mk Iii Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Cougar Mk III is intertwined with Prout & Sons' pioneering role in catamaran development. After establishing themselves with the groundbreaking Shearwater series, the Prout brothers, Roland and Francis, continued to innovate in the burgeoning multihull market. The Cougar Mk III, first produced in 1962, emerged as Prout's 19-foot offering, designed to be easily trailed and sailed. It was developed during a period when Prout was transitioning towards fiberglass construction, making the Cougar Mk III one of their early fiberglass hull designs. While the Cougar Mk III featured solid fiberglass construction for its hull, a hard-chined version, known as the Jaguar, also existed, which was more amenable to plywood construction for amateur builders. This period saw a significant growth in interest in catamarans, and the Cougar Mk III played a role in popularizing small, recreational multihulls.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Prout Cougar Mk III is characterized by its catamaran hull type and fractional sloop rigging, designed for a lively sailing experience. With a length overall of 18.75 feet and a relatively wide beam of 8 feet, the boat is inherently stable due to its twin hulls. The original design included twin centerboards, allowing for excellent windward performance and adjustable draft, ranging from a minimal 0.42 feet with the boards up to 2.5 feet when fully deployed. Owners have described the Cougar Mk III as a "beach cat" with a solid feel, often praised for its ability to handle various conditions, though some might find it on the heavier side compared to more modern, ultralight designs. Its design, with dual rudders, contributes to precise steering and control, a hallmark of well-designed multihulls.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Prout Cougar Mk III offers basic accommodations suitable primarily for day sailing or short excursions. The design prioritizes sailing performance and deck space over extensive interior comforts. With no specified maximum headroom in the main specifications, it is understood that any enclosed space would be limited, likely providing only crawl-in or sitting headroom within the hulls. Grounded searches for interior layouts indicate a very rudimentary arrangement, typical of small catamarans of its era. Often, the interior would consist of simple V-berths or basic sleeping platforms within each hull, with minimal or no dedicated galley or head facilities. Storage would be limited to under-berth areas or small lockers. The emphasis was on a functional, open cockpit for sailing, with the hulls providing essential buoyancy and the possibility of sheltered, though spartan, rest areas. Construction materials for the interior, consistent with the boat's era and builder, would likely include fiberglass surfaces, possibly complemented by simple wood trim for a utilitarian yet robust finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Prout Cougar Mk III often appreciate its robust construction and stable platform, making it a reliable choice for recreational sailing. Discussions on forums indicate a dedicated community of enthusiasts, some of whom own multiple Cougar Mark III models. While the boat is recognized for its solid performance, particularly for its age, some owners have noted its weight compared to newer beach cat designs. As with many older fiberglass boats, potential maintenance areas might include ensuring the integrity of the solid fiberglass hull and addressing any wear and tear on the original spruce and mahogany components. The enduring presence of these boats decades after their production speaks to their fundamental design and build quality, offering a fun and accessible entry into catamaran sailing.