Cowl latching system which simplifies the cowl removing process

A cowl latching system provides a retainer that is attached to the outboard motor and a catch device which is attached to a cowl structure. The catch device is shaped to allow the retainer to move between first and second extension portions. The retainer is provided with first and second retention members that can each move from a retracted position to an extended position under the urging of a resilient member such as a spring. The first and second retention members can also be urged from their respective extended positions to their respective retracted positions by the movement of the first and second extension portions of the catch device when the cowl structure is installed unto the outboard motor. The arrangement of the catch device and retainer simplifies the installation and removal of the cowl structure from the outboard motor by allowing the operator of a marine vessel to more easily and simply move the cowl structure relative to the stationary components of the outboard motor during both the installation and removal procedures.