The Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 is a modified-V design and the Crestliner CR 1236 2012 is a flat-bottom design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 measures 18,4 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 6,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Crestliner CR 1236 2012 at 11,9 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 tips the scales at 880 lbs - 740 lbs more than the Crestliner CR 1236 2012 at 140 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 115 hp, the Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 has a 105-hp advantage over the Crestliner CR 1236 2012's 10-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 is rated for 4 passengers, while the Crestliner CR 1236 2012 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Crestliner Backwater 1860 CC 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 4 passengers and at 18,4 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Crestliner CR 1236 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.