The Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 is a modified-V design and the Princecraft Vectra 19-2S 2013 is a pontoon design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 - Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 at 17,3 ft versus Princecraft Vectra 19-2S 2013 at 19,6 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Princecraft Vectra 19-2S 2013 tips the scales at 1 553 lbs - 254 lbs less than the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 at 1 299 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 135 hp, the Princecraft Pro Series 179 WS 2011 has a 60-hp advantage over the Princecraft Vectra 19-2S 2013'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 Princecraft Vectra 19-2S 2013 is rated for 9 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 Vectra 19-2S 2013 could be the deciding factor.