When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Avalon Catalina - 22 Foot 2008 and the Avalon Windjammer 26 ft. 2009 are pontoon 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 Avalon Windjammer 26 ft. 2009 measures 26,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 4,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Avalon Catalina - 22 Foot 2008 at 22,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Avalon Catalina - 22 Foot 2008 tips the scales at 2 035 lbs — 2 011 lbs more than the Avalon Windjammer 26 ft. 2009 at 24 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 150 hp, the Avalon Windjammer 26 ft. 2009 has a 50-hp advantage over the Avalon Catalina - 22 Foot 2008's 100-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 12 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 Avalon Windjammer 26 ft. 2009 at 26,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Avalon Catalina - 22 Foot 2008 at 22,0 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.