The Bertram 35 2020 vs Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Bertram 35 2020 at 35,1 ft versus Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 at 38,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Bertram 35 2020 tips the scales at 20 789 lbs — 20 784 lbs more than the Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 at 5 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 Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 tops out at 480 hp. Engine specs for the Bertram 35 2020 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Bertram 35 2020 carries 31 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 is rated for 11 passengers, while the Bertram 35 2020 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Bertram 38 Sport Fisherman 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 11 passengers and at 38,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Bertram 35 2020 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 10 that costs less to run day-to-day.