The Surtees 540 Workmate 2026 is a V-hull design and the Surtees 575 Workmate Hardtop Pro 2026 is a deep-V 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 - Surtees 540 Workmate 2026 at 17,7 ft versus Surtees 575 Workmate Hardtop Pro 2026 at 18,9 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Surtees 575 Workmate Hardtop Pro 2026 tips the scales at 2 866 lbs - 496 lbs less than the Surtees 540 Workmate 2026 at 2 370 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 115 hp, the Surtees 540 Workmate 2026 has a 35-hp advantage over the Surtees 575 Workmate Hardtop Pro 2026's 80-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Surtees 575 Workmate Hardtop Pro 2026 carries 33 gallons versus 26 gallons in the Surtees 540 Workmate 2026. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

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.