The Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 vs Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 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 Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 measures 22,9 feet overall (2022), giving it roughly 3,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 at 19,5 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 tips the scales at 2 880 lbs — 2 681 lbs less than the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 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 Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 carries a rated maximum of 150 hp. Engine data for the Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 carries 71 gallons versus 47 gallons in the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012. 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 Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Campion Explorer 542 SC 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 19,5 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Campion Explorer EX22 DC 2022 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.