The Princecraft Cadet 16 2005 vs Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 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 - Princecraft Cadet 16 2005 at 16,0 ft versus Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 at 17,3 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 tips the scales at 1 299 lbs - 711 lbs less than the Princecraft Cadet 16 2005 at 588 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 Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 tops out at 135 hp. Engine specs for the Princecraft Cadet 16 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 Princecraft Cadet 16 2005 is rated for 6 passengers, while the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Princecraft Cadet 16 2005 could be the deciding factor.