When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the ProGator 186 F/S 2012 and the ProGator 200V 2011 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 ProGator 186 F/S 2012 measures 18,5 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 16,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the ProGator 200V 2011 at 2,0 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the ProGator 186 F/S 2012 tips the scales at 135 lbs — 121 lbs more than the ProGator 200V 2011 at 14 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 225 hp, the ProGator 200V 2011 has a 50-hp advantage over the ProGator 186 F/S 2012's 175-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 5 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 ProGator 186 F/S 2012 at 18,5 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The ProGator 200V 2011 at 2,0 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.