Matching a flat Alumacraft 1236 2013 against a deep vee Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 measures 17,7 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 5,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Alumacraft 1236 2013 at 12,0 feet (2013). At 125 lbs and 127 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 150 hp, the Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 has a 140-hp advantage over the Alumacraft 1236 2013's 10-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Alumacraft 1236 2013 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 13 lbs per hp for the Alumacraft 1236 2013. 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.
Bottom line: Choose the Alumacraft Navigator 175 CS 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 5 passengers and at 17,7 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Alumacraft 1236 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.