Carolina Skiff is a well-known manufacturer of fiberglass outboard vessels, and if you are in the market for a new boat your may be wondering what other vessels are similar.
(After all, isn’t half the fun of boat shopping the research process?)
In this guide, I’m going to compare 3 boats similar to Carolina Skiff JV17.
The goal is to show you the similarities, differences, pros, and cons of these comparable vessels, so you can be more informed and educated on whatever decision you decide to make.
Table of Contents
- Which Three Boats Are Similar To The Carolina Skiff?
- Tracker Grizzly 1754 Jon Boat
- Boston Whaler 170 Montauk
- Mako Boats Pro Skiff 17 CC
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Related Posts
Which Three Boats Are Similar To The Carolina Skiff?
The Grizzly 1754 Jon Boat by Tracker, the 170 Montauk by Boston Whaler, and the Pro Skiff 17 CC by Mako are comparable small vessels to the JV 17 Carolina Skiff. All four of these boats have similar features, including physical characteristics, purpose, and style.
Carolina Skiff produces many different skiff models, so we’ll focus on a comparison of the JV17 Carolina Skiff (which I personally own).
Tracker Grizzly 1754 Jon Boat
Tracker is an aluminum Jon Boat manufacturer. The Grizzly 1754 is comparable to the JV17 Carolina Skiff in both size and simplicity.
The main difference between Carolina Skiff and Tracker boats is that Tracker Grizzly boats are made of aluminum and all Carolina Skiffs are made of fiberglass and composite.
If you’re looking for an aluminum boat (especially if your boat or recreate in an area with rocks or underwater hazards), consider the Grizzly 1754.
Although the Carolina Skiff is more expensive, the Grizzly boats offer a similar size profile and are tough and fun little boats.
Both boats have a strong reputation for durability, but the Grizzly is probably the least ‘family friendly’ vessel in our comparison.
Aluminum boats tend to get very hot in the direct sun, and they do not come equipped with cushioned seats and other creature comforts (cup holders, dry storage, etc).
The table below compares some physical and functional characteristics of the JV17 and the Grizzly 1754.
| Characteristic | JV17 Carolina Skiff | Grizzly 1754 Tracker |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 16ft 8in. | 17ft 1in. |
| Beam | 5ft 4in. | 6ft 6in. |
| Dry weight | 750lbs. | 670lbs. |
| Draft | 6in. | Depends on the load |
| Hull Shape | Modified V | Modified V |
| Center console | yes | no |
| Capacity | 4 people (980lbs.) | 6 people (1300lbs.) |
| Motor size | Up to 40HP | Up to 50HP |
| Area of use | Lakes and rivers | Lakes and rivers |
| Purpose | All-Around | Fishing; Hunting |
| Price | From $9,995 (used) | $5,995 (new) |
Pros Of The Grizzly 1754 Jon Boat
- The Grizzly is better priced than the JV17.
- The Grizzly is still in production (the JV17 is discontinued).
- The Grizzly has a flatter bottom and navigates shallower water better.
- The Grizzly only weighs roughly 670lbs.
Cons Of The Grizzly 1754 Jon Boat
- The Grizzly is not as comfortable as the JV17.
- The Grizzly does not handle choppy/rough water as well as the JV17.
- The Grizzly lacks a center console.
You May Also Like: Carolina Skiff Vs Jon Boat: Small Boat Comparison
Boston Whaler 170 Montauk
Boston Whaler’s 170 Montauk is our next vessel similar to the JV17.
Boston Whaler has a very strong brand name, with reputable service and a dedicated community of boat owners around the world.
The Boston Whaler 170 Montauk is a family-friendly boat, with the most amenities and features to enjoy a comfortable day out on the water.
It’s also the most expensive on our list.
Due to its larger size, deeper hull and more robust displacement, the 170 Montauk can handle rough seas much better than the Carolina Skiff JV17.
If you’re looking for something with more horsepower, more room, and all the creature comforts consider the Boston Whaler 170 Montauk.
Remember, larger and heavier vessels will require a larger trailer if you plan on towing. This means you must also have an adequate towing capacity as well.
Below, we’ll summarize the differences and similarities.
| Characteristic | JV17 Carolina Skiff | 170 Montauk Boston Whaler |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 16ft 8in. | 17ft 4in. |
| Beam | 5ft 4in. | 7ft 3in. |
| Dry weight | 750lbs. | 1700lbs. |
| Draft | 6in. | 12in. |
| Hull Shape | Modified V | V-shaped |
| Center console | yes | yes |
| Capacity | 4 people (980lbs.) | 7 people (1900lbs.) |
| Motor size | Up to 40HP | 115HP |
| Area of use | Lakes and rivers | Lakes, rivers, some offshore |
| Purpose | All-Around | Fishing; Family |
| Price | From $9,995 (used) | From $34,000 |
Pros Of The Montauk 170
- The Montauk is still in production.
- The Montauk is a bigger boat and carries more people/weight.
- The Montauk is a good utility boat that can handle offshore conditions better than the JV17.
- With a larger engine, the utility is greater in the Montauk.
Cons Of The Montauk 170
- The Montauk is drastically more expensive than the skiff.
- The Montauk requires deeper water than the JV17.
- The Montauk is significantly heavier than the JV17.
Mako Boats Pro Skiff 17 CC
Mako also manufactures skiffs in the 17-foot class. The Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC is highly comparable to the JV17.
In fact, I think the Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC is the closest competitor to the 17-foot line of Carolina Skiff boats when it comes to size, style, features, and price.
The main difference is that the Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC has a larger hull, wider beam, and larger horsepower rating.
This means it can handle rougher water better than the Carolina Skiff, but it’s less fuel-efficient.
Similarly, the Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC is a great hybrid vessel; meaning its equally suited for fishing or utility uses as well as family-friendly activities.
The table below compares these boats according to their physical properties and usability.
| Characteristic | JV17 Carolina Skiff | Pro Skiff 17 CC Mako |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 16ft 8in. | 17ft 3in. |
| Beam | 5ft 4in. | 6ft 11in. |
| Dry weight | 750lbs. | 1210 lbs. |
| Draft | 6in. | 8in. |
| Hull Shape | Modified V | Inverted V |
| Center console | Yes | Yes |
| Capacity | 4 people (980lbs.) | 6 people (1650lbs.) |
| Motor size | Up to 40HP | Up to 75HP |
| Area of use | Lakes and rivers | Lakes and rivers |
| Purpose | All-Around | All-Around |
| Price | From $9,995 (used) | $26,995 (new) |
Pros Of The Mako Pro Skiff 17CC
- The Pro Skiff is still in production.
- The Pro Skiff can accommodate more people.
- The Pro Skiff has the capacity for a larger motor.
- The hull design of the Pro Skiff allows for better choppy water handling.
Cons Of The Mako Pro Skiff 17CC
- The Pro Skiff requires deeper water than the JV17.
- The Pro Skiff is significantly more expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the smallest Carolina Skiff?
The smallest Carolina Skiff is the J12, measuring just 12 feet in length. Although these boats are no longer manufactured, they are very popular in the used boat market.
Related: Buying A Used Carolina Skiff? Here’s What You Should Ask
What boats are similar to the Carolina Skiff Ultra Elite?
The Carolina Skiff Ultra Elite series are 21′ to 26′ center console vessels. Similar boats are made by KeyWest, Century, Tidewater, Cobia and Mako.
Who Are Carolina Skiff competitors?
Carolina Skiff is one of the best-selling lines of fiberglass outboard vessels in North America. Popular competitors include KeyWest, Mako, and Proline, as well as smaller micro manufacturers such as Sundance Skiffs, Ankona, and Saltmarsh.
Why buy a Carolina Skiff?
Most people who buy a Carolina Skiff are looking for the best value boat available. A combination of affordability, adequate features, and a strong reputation. This is exactly where Carolina Skiff excels, and why they are one of the most popular fiberglass boats.
Well, I may be a little bit biased since I own a Carolina Skiff JV17 that I love…
Growing up in Florida, I’ve been surrounded by saltwater my entire life…and I love sharing my passion with others.
To learn more about why I started Saltwater Mecca, visit the ABOUT page.
Thank you for reading this article. Browse around & have some fun!
