Matching a modified vee Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 against a deep vee Klamath 17 ft. Baja 2013 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 — Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 at 16,0 ft versus Klamath 17 ft. Baja 2013 at 17,3 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Klamath 17 ft. Baja 2013 tips the scales at 675 lbs — 630 lbs less than the Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 at 45 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 Klamath 17 ft. Baja 2013 tops out at 60 hp. Engine specs for the Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Klamath 17 ft. Baja 2013 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Klamath 16 ft. Explorer 2005 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 16,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Klamath 17 ft. Baja 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.