Matching a tunnel Blue Wave 170 Super Tunnel 2011 against a modified vee Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Blue Wave 170 Super Tunnel 2011 at 16,6 ft versus Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 at 18,8 ft. At 85 lbs and 12 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 Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 has a 70-hp advantage over the Blue Wave 170 Super Tunnel 2011's 80-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 carries 24 gallons versus 18 gallons in the Blue Wave 170 Super Tunnel 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Blue Wave 170 Super Tunnel 2011 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Blue Wave Multi-Species 57 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 18,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Blue Wave 170 Super Tunnel 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.