The AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012 vs AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 measures 17,0 feet overall (2005), giving it roughly 6,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012 at 11,0 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 tips the scales at 1 104 lbs — 1 067 lbs less than the AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012 at 37 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 90 hp, the AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 has a 65-hp advantage over the AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012's 25-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 carries 33 gallons versus 1 gallons in the AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 5 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012 comes in at 2 lbs per hp versus 12 lbs per hp for the AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
The AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 is trailerable — a genuine lifestyle advantage at this size. The AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012 isn't listed as trailerable, which may mean a permanent berth or mooring is required.
Bottom line: The AB-Inflatables Oceanus 17 VST 2005 at 17,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The AB Inflatables 11 VST 2012 at 11,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.