Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 boat specs
Crest
Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004
2004
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VS
Crest Explorer 1800 2005 boat specs
Crest
Crest Explorer 1800 2005
2005
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Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 vs Crest Explorer 1800 2005 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 vs Crest Explorer 1800 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.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 at 18,0 ft versus Crest Explorer 1800 2005 at 18,0 ft. At 16 lbs and 16 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 75 hp for the Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 and 60 hp for the Crest Explorer 1800 2005. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.

Both boats are rated for 1 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 Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 0 lbs per hp for the Crest Explorer 1800 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.

Bottom line: The Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 and Crest Explorer 1800 2005 are closely matched on the specs that matter most. Test-ride both on the water you actually use, check current dealer pricing, and factor in long-term service access before you sign.
General Boat Info
MakeCrest
MakeCrest
ModelCrest Sport Model 18
ModelExplorer 18
Model Year2004
Model Year2005
Measurements / Dimensions
Beam8 ft
Beam8 ft. 0 in
Beam - Meters2.44
Beam - Meters2.44
Beam - Inches96
Beam - Inches96
Weight - Detail1,600 lbs
Weight - Detail1,600 lbs
Weight - kg725.75
Weight - kg725.75
Weight - lbs.16
Weight - lbs.16
Length [deck]17 ft. 6 in
Length [deck]17 ft. 6 in
Length - Feet18
Length - Feet18
Length overall - Detail18 ft. 0 in
Length overall - Detail18 ft. 0 in
Length overall - Meters5.49
Length overall - Meters5.49
Length overall - Inches216
Length overall - Inches216
Pontoon and Inflatable Specific
Tube diameter23 in
Tube diameter23 in
Engine and Drivetrain
Drive typeOutBoard
Drive typeOutboard
Engine maxOutboard/ Weight: 75 / 330 lbs
Engine max60 hp
Engine/s standardnot available
Engine/s standardOutboard Weight: 330 lbs
Operational Info
Maximum capacity1,800 lbs
Maximum capacity1,800 lbs
Maximum people1
Maximum people1

Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 vs Crest Explorer 1800 2005 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 or the Crest Explorer 1800 2005?
The Crest Explorer 1800 2005 is the longer of the two at 18,0 feet overall. The Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 comes in at 18,0 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 Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 or the Crest Explorer 1800 2005?
For trailering, the Crest Explorer 1800 2005 has the edge at 16 lbs dry weight versus 16 lbs for the Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004. 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 Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 is rated to a maximum of 75 hp, giving it the larger power ceiling. The Crest Explorer 1800 2005 tops out at 60 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 Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 is Coast Guard rated for 1 passengers, while the Crest Explorer 1800 2005 is certified for 1. 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 has the better power-to-weight ratio?
The Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 has a better power-to-weight ratio at 0 lbs per hp compared to 0 lbs per hp for the Crest Explorer 1800 2005. A lower number means quicker acceleration and faster time to plane — the number that actually matters most on short, sporty boats like these.
Do these boats require an oversize trailer permit to tow on US highways?
Both the Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 and Crest Explorer 1800 2005 share an 8 ft beam — meaning both sit right at the 8’6" threshold that most US states use for standard-width loads. In most states you can tow at that width without a special permit, but regulations vary. Always check the rules for your state and any states you'll be passing through before your first long haul.
Are the Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 and Crest Explorer 1800 2005 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the Crest Crest Sport Model 18 2004 and the Crest Explorer 1800 2005 are built by Crest. 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.