The Whittley CW1800 2009 vs Whittley Voyager 580 2007 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Whittley CW1800 2009 measures 17,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 15,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Whittley Voyager 580 2007 at 2,0 feet (2007). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Whittley CW1800 2009 tips the scales at 1 544 lbs — 1 226 lbs more than the Whittley Voyager 580 2007 at 318 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 175 hp, the Whittley Voyager 580 2007 has a 40-hp advantage over the Whittley CW1800 2009's 135-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.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Whittley Voyager 580 2007 comes in at 2 lbs per hp versus 11 lbs per hp for the Whittley CW1800 2009. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: The Whittley CW1800 2009 at 17,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Whittley Voyager 580 2007 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.