The Premier Boats CL 180 2006 vs Premier Boats Explorer 201 2010 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 - Premier Boats CL 180 2006 at 17,0 ft versus Premier Boats Explorer 201 2010 at 20,0 ft. At 2 100 lbs and 2 100 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 115 hp, the Premier Boats CL 180 2006 has a 40-hp advantage over the Premier Boats Explorer 201 2010's 75-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Premier Boats CL 180 2006 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Premier Boats Explorer 201 2010 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Premier Boats CL 180 2006 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Premier Boats CL 180 2006 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 9 passengers and at 17,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Premier Boats Explorer 201 2010 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 8 that costs less to run day-to-day.