When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Maritime 1690 2011 and the Maritime 23 Classic 2013 are modified vee designs with composite construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Maritime 23 Classic 2013 measures 23,3 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 6,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Maritime 1690 2011 at 16,5 feet (2011). At 12 lbs and 26 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 Maritime 1690 2011 carries a rated maximum of 75 hp. Engine data for the Maritime 23 Classic 2013 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Maritime 23 Classic 2013 carries 83 gallons versus 26 gallons in the Maritime 1690 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 Maritime 23 Classic 2013 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Maritime 1690 2011 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Maritime 23 Classic 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Maritime 23 Classic 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 8 passengers and at 23,3 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Maritime 1690 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.