Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 boat specs
Amels
Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016
2016
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VS
Amels Synthesis 2021 boat specs
Amels
Amels Synthesis 2021
2021
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Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 vs Amels Synthesis 2021 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 vs Amels Synthesis 2021 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.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 at 242,0 ft versus Amels Synthesis 2021 at 242,0 ft. At 3 580 000 lbs and 3 580 000 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 2 719 hp, the Amels Synthesis 2021 has a 144-hp advantage over the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016's 2 575-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 40 946 gal and 40 946 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

Both boats are rated for 73 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.

Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Amels Synthesis 2021 and its 2 719-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 with its 2 575-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.
Measurements / Dimensions
Length overall - Detail242.00 ft
Length overall - Detail242.00 ft
Length - Feet242
Length - Feet242
Length overall - Meters73.76
Length overall - Meters73.76
Length overall - Inches2904
Length overall - Inches2904
Beam40.00 ft
Beam41.00 ft
Beam - Meters12.19
Beam - Meters12.5
Beam - Inches480
Beam - Inches492
Draft [max] - Detail12.80 ft
Draft [max] - Detail12.60 ft
Draft [max] - Meters3.9
Draft [max] - Meters3.84
Draft [max] - Inches154
Draft [max] - Inches151
Displacement3580000.00 lbs
Displacement3580000.00 lbs
Engine and Drivetrain
Fuel tank capacity - Gal40946
Fuel tank capacity - Gal40946
Fuel tank capacity - Liters154997.4
Fuel tank capacity - Liters154997.4
Engine makeCaterpillar
Engine makeCaterpillar
Engine model3516C
Engine model3516
Horsepower2575 hp
Horsepower2719 hp
Fuel typeDiesel
Fuel typeDiesel
Engine 2 Engine MakeCaterpillar
Engine 2 Engine MakeCaterpillar
Engine 2 Engine Model3516C
Engine 2 Engine Model3516
Engine 2 Horsepower2575 hp
Engine 2 Horsepower2719 hp
Engine 2 Fuel TypeDiesel
Engine 2 Fuel TypeDiesel
Performance
Cruising speed12.5
Cruising speed12.5
Cruising speed measureknots
Cruising speed measureknots
Maximum speed16
Maximum speed16.5
Maximum speed measureknots
Maximum speed measureknots
Operational Info
Cabins6
Cabins6
Water capacity38
Water capacity10038
Boat typePower
Boat typePower

Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 vs Amels Synthesis 2021 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 or the Amels Synthesis 2021?
The Amels Synthesis 2021 is the longer of the two at 242,0 feet overall. The Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 comes in at 242,0 feet, making it roughly 0,0 ft shorter — a meaningful difference in deck room and overall on-water presence.
Which is easier to trailer — the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 or the Amels Synthesis 2021?
For trailering, the Amels Synthesis 2021 has the edge at 3 580 000 lbs dry weight versus 3 580 000 lbs for the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016. Add a motor (typically 300–500 lbs for an outboard in this class), gear, and a partial fuel load and the difference grows. Lighter is friendlier on smaller tow vehicles and on fuel economy while hauling.
Which boat can handle a bigger outboard?
The Amels Synthesis 2021 is rated to a maximum of 2 719 hp, giving it the larger power ceiling. The Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 tops out at 2 575 hp. Keep in mind that maximum ratings are just that — matching the motor to the actual load and usage pattern usually matters more than chasing the ceiling.
How many people can each boat hold?
The Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 is Coast Guard rated for 73 passengers, while the Amels Synthesis 2021 is certified for 73. Note that legal capacity and comfortable capacity aren't always the same thing — on a full day out, most experienced boaters aim for about 80% of the rated number to keep things comfortable.
Which boat is wider, and does it affect trailering?
The Amels Synthesis 2021 measures 492" wide, compared to 480" for the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016. The US standard-width towing limit is 8’6" (102") in most states — anything over that may need a wide-load permit. Confirm your specific route requirements with each state's DOT.
How do the fuel tanks compare on the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 and Amels Synthesis 2021?
Both boats carry similar fuel loads — 40 946 gallons and 40 946 gallons respectively. Range will depend heavily on motor choice, throttle usage, and whether you're on flat lake water or coastal chop.
Are the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 and Amels Synthesis 2021 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the Amels PLVS VLTRA 2016 and the Amels Synthesis 2021 are built by Amels. That means shared dealer networks, common parts availability, and consistent build quality across the line. The choice between them is essentially a question of how much boat you need, not which brand you trust.