When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2011 and the Campion Explorer 552i SC 2011 are modified vee designs with fiberglass 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?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Campion Explorer 542 SC 2011 at 19,5 ft versus Campion Explorer 552i SC 2011 at 20,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Campion Explorer 552i SC 2011 tips the scales at 3 171 lbs — 2 972 lbs less than the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2011 at 199 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 225 hp, the Campion Explorer 552i SC 2011 has a 75-hp advantage over the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2011's 150-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 47 gal and 47 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
Both boats are rated for 7 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: Performance buyers should lean toward the Campion Explorer 552i SC 2011 and its 225-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2011 with its 150-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.