The Gillgetter 716 Outfitter 2008 vs Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 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 Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 measures 21,0 feet overall (2004), giving it roughly 5,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Gillgetter 716 Outfitter 2008 at 16,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Gillgetter 716 Outfitter 2008 tips the scales at 1 125 lbs — 1 002 lbs more than the Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 at 123 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 Gillgetter 716 Outfitter 2008 carries a rated maximum of 40 hp. Engine data for the Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Gillgetter 716 Outfitter 2008 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Gillgetter 718 Cruisemaster 2004 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 10 passengers and at 21,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Gillgetter 716 Outfitter 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 7 that costs less to run day-to-day.