PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 boat specs
PlayCraft
PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005
2005
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VS
PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 boat specs
PlayCraft
PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008
2008
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PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 vs PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 vs PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 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.

The PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 carries a rated maximum of 135 hp. Engine data for the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 carries 103 gallons versus 24 gallons in the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 8 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.

Bottom line: The PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 at 28,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 at 18,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.
General Boat Info
MakePlayCraft
MakePlayCraft
ModelSunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB
ModelUltra Series
Model Year2005
Model Year2008
Measurements / Dimensions
Beam8 ft. 0 in
Beam8 ft. 6 in
Beam - Meters2.44
Beam - Meters2.59
Beam - Inches96
Beam - Inches102
Weight - Detail1,800 lbs
Weight - Detailnot available
Weight - kg816.47
Weight - kgnot available
Weight - lbs.18
Weight - lbs.not available
Length - Feet18
Length - Feet28
Length overall - Detail18 ft. 0 in
Length overall - Detail28 ft. 0 in
Length overall - Meters5.49
Length overall - Meters8.53
Length overall - Inches216
Length overall - Inches336
Engine and Drivetrain
Fuel tank capacity - Detail24 gal
Fuel tank capacity - Detail30 - 103 gal
Fuel tank capacity - Liters90.85
Fuel tank capacity - Liters389.9
Fuel tank capacity - Gal24
Fuel tank capacity - Gal103
Drive typeOutboard
Drive typenot available
Engine max135 hp
Engine maxnot available
Fuel typenot available
Fuel typeGas
Operational Info
Maximum capacity1,700 lbs
Maximum capacitynot available
Maximum people8
Maximum peoplenot available
Body / Hull
Hull materialnot available
Hull materialAluminum
Hull typenot available
Hull typePontoon
Pontoon and Inflatable Specific
Tube diameternot available
Tube diameter24 in
Tube gaugenot available
Tube gauge0.090 in

PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 vs PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 or the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008?
The PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 is the longer of the two at 28,0 feet overall. The PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 comes in at 18,0 feet, making it roughly 10,0 ft shorter — a meaningful difference in deck room and overall on-water presence.
What is the maximum horsepower rating for these boats?
The PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 has a documented max rating of 135 hp. Engine specifications for the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 were not available in our database — check the OEM spec sheet or manufacturer's website for confirmation.
How many people can each boat hold?
The PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 is Coast Guard rated for 8 passengers, while the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 is certified for 8. 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 is wider, and does it affect trailering?
The PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 measures 102" wide, compared to 96" for the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005. The US standard-width towing limit is 8’6" (102") in most states — anything over that may need a wide-load permit. Confirm your specific route requirements with each state's DOT.
Which boat has the larger fuel tank — the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 or the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008?
The PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 has the bigger tank at 103 gallons, versus 24 gallons on the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005. That 79-gallon difference translates to roughly 237–395 nautical miles of additional range at cruising speed, depending on motor, load, and conditions.
Are the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 and PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the PlayCraft Sunfish FishDeck FX4-18 OB 2005 and the PlayCraft Ultra Series 2008 are built by PlayCraft. 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.