Prout Quasar 50 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Quasar 50 is defined by the signature "Prout Rig," a mast-aft configuration that moves the mast significantly further toward the stern than on contemporary catamarans. This setup results in a relatively small mainsail and a large, powerful staysail and genoa. The primary advantage, as noted in historical technical overviews from the Prout Owners Association, is that the bulk of the sail area can be handled via furling systems from the safety of the cockpit, minimizing the need for crew to venture onto the coachroof in heavy weather.

In terms of handling, the Quasar 50 is a steady performer rather than a high-speed sprinter. Its low-aspect-ratio keels are molded into the hulls, providing excellent directional stability and protection for the rudders and sail drives, but they do result in a larger turning circle and less "bite" when sailing close-hauled compared to daggerboard-equipped boats. The Sail Area-to-Displacement ratio is modest, meaning the Quasar 50 requires a healthy breeze to find its stride. However, once moving, its momentum and high displacement allow it to power through a chop that would hobby-horse lighter catamarans. Owner anecdotes often highlight the boat's "sea-kindliness," a term used to describe its predictable motion in following seas—a direct result of its narrow individual hulls and wide bridge-deck clearance.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Quasar 50 was essentially a semi-custom platform, meaning few interiors are identical. However, the consistent theme is an expansive use of the 19-foot-plus beam. The bridge-deck saloon is the social heart of the vessel, often featuring a panoramic 180-degree view through large wrap-around windows. Unlike many modern cats that utilize a "galley-up" layout, the Quasar 50 typically features a "galley-down" configuration in the starboard hull. This creates a massive, residential-style kitchen area with significant storage, though it separates the cook from the social action in the saloon.

Sibling models and variations are notable in this range. The Quasar 50 shares a nearly identical DNA with the Quasar 49; the primary difference often lies in the transom design, with the 50-foot version sporting extended sugar-scoop sterns for easier water access and slightly improved hull speed. Cabin configurations varied from four-cabin layouts—ideal for charter or large families—to "Owner’s Versions" that dedicated an entire hull to a master suite, complete with an ensuite head and a dedicated office or dressing area. The materials used were typical of the British yard's high standards of the time, featuring heavy use of teak or cherry veneers and robust GRP moldings.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Quasar 50 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the bridge deck and the condition of the large windows.

1. Window Sealing and Crazing: The expansive front and side windows are a hallmark of the model, but they are prone to UV-induced crazing and leaks. Replacing these large, curved panes is a specialized and expensive undertaking.
2. Osmotic Blistering: Like many British-built boats of the 1980s and early 90s, Prout hulls have been known to develop osmotic blisters. A moisture meter test and a thorough hull inspection are mandatory.
3. Rigging Tension: The Prout mast-aft rig places significant compression loads on the mast step and tension on the forestay. It is essential to check the mast-step support structure within the saloon for any signs of compression or "dishing."
4. Bulkhead Bonding: In some older units that have seen heavy offshore use, the secondary bonding of the bulkheads to the hull should be inspected for signs of movement or delamination, particularly in the forward sections where slamming loads are highest.
5. Steering System: The Quasar 50 uses a long-run cable or hydraulic steering system. Due to the distance between the rudders, any slack in the system can result in a "numb" feeling at the helm.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Prout Owners Association, which maintains an archive of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and a collective knowledge base of refit projects. Because the builder is no longer in operation, this community is the most reliable source for finding replacement parts or advice on modernizing the unique Prout rig.

The Verdict

The Prout Quasar 50 is a "gentleman’s cruiser" of the catamaran world—safe, spacious, and built with a level of redundancy that modern, lightweight production boats often lack. While it will never win a race against a modern performance multihull, its ability to carry a family across an ocean in comfort remains its strongest selling point.

Pros:

• Safety: The mast-aft rig and heavy displacement provide a very stable and secure platform in heavy weather.
• Living Space: Massive internal volume and a bridge deck that rivals many 60-foot monohulls.
• Durability: Solid construction methods designed for decades of use rather than short-term charter cycles.

Cons:

• Light Wind Performance: Requires significant wind to overcome its weight; engine use is common in light airs.
• Upwind Angles: The fixed keels and windage of the large coachroof limit its ability to point high into the wind.
• Maintenance Access: The galley-down and deep-hull configurations can make accessing some plumbing and electrical runs a challenge.