The Prout Event 34, a catamaran developed in collaboration with yacht designer David Feltham, represents a significant chapter in the legacy of Prout & Sons, a British builder renowned for its pioneering work in multihull design. Emerging in 1998, this vessel was conceived to offer a blend of robust construction and comfortable, easy-to-handle sailing, embodying Prout's long-standing philosophy of creating seaworthy vessels for offshore and bluewater cruising. Though Prout & Sons ceased new boat production in 2002, the Event 34 reflects the company's commitment to durability and practicality for sailing enthusiasts seeking a reliable cruising platform.
Event 34 Information, Review, Specs
- Make
- Model
- Number Built
- Production Year(s)
- 1998 - ??
The Prout Event 34 commenced production in 1998, a period when Prout & Sons, after decades of innovation, was consolidating its position as a leading catamaran builder before its dissolution in 2002. This model was developed in collaboration with yacht designer David Feltham, an English designer also known for founding Seawolf Yachts Ltd. The design incorporated the latest advancements in ocean-going catamaran features, with an emphasis on creating a vessel that was higher, wider, and broader in its stern sections, maximizing internal volume and stability. Consistent with Prout's manufacturing ethos, the Event 34 was constructed with solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck, underscoring the company's reputation for building durable, safe, and practical multihulls capable of extensive voyaging.
Sailing Performance and Handling
The Prout Event 34 is distinguished by its capable sailing performance and remarkable ease of handling. Owners frequently describe the Event 34 as fast and responsive under sail, offering a gratifying experience for cruising sailors. A key design objective was to facilitate single-handed operation, a goal achieved through a well-thought-out cockpit layout that allows all sail handling to be managed from this central location. The catamaran is noted for its ability to tack effortlessly, demonstrating agility and good balance. Its design prioritizes safety, performance, and adventure, making it a proven ocean-ready vessel capable of navigating diverse sea states comfortably.
Accommodations and Layout
Despite its overall length of just under 34 feet, the Prout Event 34 is celebrated for its remarkably spacious and open-plan accommodations, often compared favorably to vessels twice its size. The saloon, in particular, features a wide, flat floor, contributing to an expansive feel. While specific interior layouts can vary, catamarans of this size typically feature two or three cabins, a functional galley, and a head compartment, often with standing headroom, which aids comfort on extended voyages. Owners consistently praise the Event 34 for its overall comfort, a significant advantage for long-term cruising for a couple. The design focuses on maximizing internal volume and livability, providing ample space for storage and relaxation, which is crucial for offshore cruising.
Owner's Perspectives
Owners of the Prout Event 34 consistently highlight its suitability for extended cruising and offshore passages. Many have chosen the Event 34 to fulfill dreams of significant voyages, such as Atlantic crossings, attesting to its perceived reliability and robust construction. Its ease of handling, particularly for single-handed sailing, is a frequently lauded feature, making it accessible even for those with limited crew. The generous and comfortable accommodation is another strong point, providing a liveable platform for couples or small families embarking on long-term adventures. While specific common problems were not extensively detailed in owner forums, the general consensus points to a well-regarded catamaran that upholds Prout's legacy of building solid, seaworthy vessels.
Measurements
Construction & Hull
- Construction Material
- Fiberglass (Solid)
- Hull Type
- Monohull Sailboat
- Keel Type
- Bulb
- Rudder
- 1x Spade
- Ballast
- 3968 lbs
- Displacement
- 11464 lbs
- Water Capacity
- 63 gal
- Fuel Capacity
- 22 gal
Engine
- Engine Make
- Volvo Penta
- Engine Model
- MD2030
- Engine Type
- —
- Engine HP
- 29
- Engine Count
- 1
- Drive Type
- —
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
Rig & Sails
- Rig Type
- Fractional Sloop
- P (Main Luff)
- 37.73 ft
- E (Main Foot)
- 12.3 ft
- I (Foretriangle Height)
- 37.73 ft
- J (Foretriangle Base)
- 12.47 ft
- Forestay Length (est)
- 39.74 ft
- Main Sail Area
- 232.04 sqft
- Foretriangle Sail Area
- 235.25 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Reported)
- 467 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Calc)
- 467.29 sqft
Dimensions
- LOA
- 33.96 ft
- LWL
- 28.87 ft
- Beam
- 11.32 ft
- Draft
- 5.58 ft
- Max Headroom
- -
- Air Draft
- -
Calculations
- Hull Speed
- 7.2 kn
- Pounds per Inch Immersion
- 1