When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 and the SeaArk Forecast 170C 2012 are modified vee designs with aluminum 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 SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 measures 20,1 feet overall (2010), giving it roughly 3,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the SeaArk Forecast 170C 2012 at 17,0 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the SeaArk Forecast 170C 2012 tips the scales at 775 lbs — 688 lbs less than the SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 at 87 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 SeaArk Forecast 170C 2012 tops out at 75 hp. Engine specs for the SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 is rated for 6 passengers, while the SeaArk Forecast 170C 2012 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the SeaArk C.U.B. Models 2010 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 20,1 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The SeaArk Forecast 170C 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.