Prout Quest 33 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Quest 33 utilizes the signature Prout "mast-aft" rig, a configuration that places the mast significantly further aft than on contemporary French or American catamarans. This design choice results in a mainsail that is relatively small and easy to handle, while the primary driving force comes from a large, high-overlap genoa or staysail. This setup is particularly favored by shorthanded crews and long-distance cruisers because it allows for most of the sail handling and reefing to be conducted from the safety of the cockpit using furling systems.

Under sail, the Quest 33 is characterized by its exceptional directional stability, thanks to its low-aspect-ratio keels and deep hulls. While it does not boast the high-speed "flying hull" performance of modern performance cats, it excels at maintaining a steady 6 to 8 knots in a breeze without the dramatic heel of a monohull. One technical trade-off of the Prout design is the low bridge-deck clearance. In choppy or head-sea conditions, owners often report "slamming" or "pounding" as waves hit the underside of the bridge deck. However, this design allows for a lower center of gravity and easier access to the interior, which many cruisers find a worthy compromise for the vessel's overall sea-kindliness.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Quest 33 was predominantly marketed in two configurations: the standard Quest 33 and the Quest 33CS (Cruising Series). The CS variant typically featured an updated interior with more modern cabinetry and refined finishes. Both models utilize a "galley-down" layout, where the cooking facilities are located in the midships section of the starboard hull. This maximizes the bridge-deck space for a massive, wrap-around U-shaped saloon that offers nearly 360-degree visibility—a feature that was revolutionary at the time of its release.

The accommodation typically includes three private cabins. The master cabin is usually situated in the forward section of the bridge deck, providing a large double berth without the "climbing over a partner" issues found in narrower hulls. The aft sections of the port and starboard hulls house additional double berths. Because the Quest 33 is a relatively narrow catamaran by modern standards (with a beam of approximately 14 feet 4 inches), the hulls themselves feel more akin to a traditional monohull in terms of width, but the bridge deck provides an open, airy communal space that a 33-foot monohull simply cannot match. Headroom is generally excellent throughout the main saloon and the mid-sections of the hulls, often exceeding 6 feet 2 inches.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Quest 33 with a specific focus on the unique mechanical and structural elements of the Prout build:

• Sillette Sonic Drive Leg: Most Quest 33s were fitted with a single central diesel engine (often a Yanmar or Volvo Penta) connected to a steerable Sillette Sonic outdrive leg. This leg can be tilted out of the water to reduce drag and prevent corrosion. However, the lifting mechanism, universal joints, and bellows require meticulous maintenance. Buyers should check for signs of oil leaks or "clunking" during gear engagement.
• Window Seals: The large panoramic windows in the saloon are a hallmark of the Prout design but are prone to leaking as the original bedding compounds dry out. Water ingress here can damage the interior joinery and headliners.
• Delamination and Core Integrity: While Prout hulls are generally robust, the decks often utilized a balsa or foam core for weight reduction. Inspect the decks for "soft spots," particularly around stanchion bases and the mast step, which may indicate core rot or delamination.
• Rig Tension: Due to the mast-aft configuration, the forestay carries significant tension. On older boats, it is vital to inspect the forward crossbeam and the chainplates for signs of stress fracturing or movement.

Community & Resources

The Prout brand is supported by a dedicated and highly technical owner base. The Prout Owners Association serves as the primary repository for original manuals, wiring diagrams, and specific DIY fixes for the Sillette drive system. This community is instrumental for new owners, as many of the original builders' components were custom-fabricated on Canvey Island and require specific knowledge to repair or replace.

The Verdict

The Prout Quest 33 is an ideal entry-point for sailors transitioning from monohulls to multihulls, offering a safe, predictable, and voluminous platform for coastal and near-shore cruising.

Pros:

• Ease of Handling: The mast-aft rig and small mainsail make it exceptionally easy for a single-handed sailor or a couple to manage.
• Safety: Naturally stable with a low center of gravity; the Prout reputation for "unsinkability" and robust GRP work is well-earned.
• Living Space: The bridge-deck saloon offers a social environment far superior to any monohull of similar length.

Cons:

• Bridge-Deck Slamming: The low clearance can lead to noisy and uncomfortable motion in short, choppy seas.
• Drive Leg Maintenance: The Sillette outdrive requires more frequent attention than a traditional shaft drive or saildrive.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and conservative sail plan mean the boat can be sluggish in winds under 10 knots.