Prout Event 34 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Prout Event 34 employs the builder’s signature "mainsail-aft" cutter rig, a configuration designed to make shorthanded cruising safer and more manageable. By placing the mast further aft than on most contemporary catamarans, the boat utilizes a smaller, easily handled mainsail and relies on a large, high-overlap genoa and a staysail for primary drive. This setup allows the crew to perform most reefing and sail handling from the safety of the cockpit. In terms of sea-kindliness, the Event 34 is known for its predictable motion; however, its low-aspect-ratio keels mean it does not point as high to windward as daggerboard-equipped catamarans.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of the cruising spectrum, the Event 34 is not a high-performance "fly-a-hull" multihull. Instead, it offers a stable platform that tracks exceptionally well, even in following seas. The narrow beam (approximately 15' 8") allows the boat to fit into some standard monohull slips, but it also limits the ultimate stability compared to modern "wide-body" cats. Owners often report that while the boat is a capable performer in a breeze, it can be sluggish in light airs under 10 knots without the use of a specialized reaching sail like a cruising chute or screacher.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Event 34 was a significant step forward for Prout, offering a more integrated and "finished" feel than the earlier Quest models. The layout typically features the signature Prout bridgedeck saloon, which is set lower than on many modern cats to maintain a low center of gravity. This results in a cozy, panoramic seating area that provides excellent visibility while seated. The galley is located in the midships section of one of the hulls (usually the starboard), offering a "galley-down" configuration that maximizes counter space and storage, though it separates the cook from the social action in the saloon.

Sibling variants and configurations for the Event 34 primarily revolved around the cabin arrangements. The "Family" version typically offered a three-cabin layout, with two double berths forward and one in the aft of the port hull. Some models were customized with a more dedicated "Owner’s" configuration, sacrificing a berth for additional storage or an enlarged head and shower area. The use of molded GRP liners combined with high-quality wood joinery was standard, reflecting the British craftsmanship of the era. The headroom is generally excellent in the hulls (over 6'3"), though it remains slightly more restricted in the central saloon area due to the low-profile coachroof.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Prout Event 34 should prioritize a thorough inspection of the following technical areas:

• Outdrive Leg Maintenance: Most Event 34s were equipped with a single central diesel engine (often a Yanmar or Volvo Penta) linked to a steerable Sillette Sonic outdrive leg. This leg is prone to corrosion and seal failure if the bellows are not replaced regularly or if the leg is left submerged in a "down" position in saltwater for extended periods.
• Bridgedeck Slamming: Like many older Prouts, the Event 34 has relatively low bridgedeck clearance. In short, choppy seas, this can lead to "slapping" or "slamming" against the underside of the bridgedeck. While structurally sound, this can be noisy and tiring during long offshore passages.
• Window Leaks: The large panoramic windows in the saloon are a primary feature but are known to develop leaks as the original bedding compounds age. Re-bedding these acrylic panels is a common mid-life maintenance task.
• Core Integrity: While Prout used solid fiberglass below the waterline, the decks and coachroof often utilized balsa or foam cores. Use a moisture meter to check for soft spots around stanchion bases, cleats, and the mast step.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Prout Owners Association, which maintains an extensive archive of manuals, wiring diagrams, and historical data for the Event 34. This community is highly active and serves as the definitive resource for navigating the unique maintenance requirements of the Prout outdrive system and rig.

The Verdict

The Prout Event 34 is a "pocket" blue-water cruiser that prioritizes safety and ease of handling over modern "condo-maran" volume. It is an ideal choice for a couple or a small family looking for a proven multihull capable of coastal hopping or trans-oceanic voyaging on a budget.

Pros:

• Exceedingly seaworthy and stable for its size.
• Cutter rig is exceptionally easy for a solo sailor or couple to manage.
• Narrow beam allows for easier marina berthing than modern catamarans.
• Proven track record with numerous successful circumnavigations.

Cons:

• Under-cleared bridgedeck leads to slamming in certain sea states.
• Single-engine outdrive configuration requires diligent maintenance and can be less maneuverable than twin-engine setups.
• Light-air performance is mediocre without specialized sails.