The Crestliner Backwater Series 1655 Tiller 2009 is a modified-V design and the Crestliner Raptor 1850 SC 2013 is a deep-V 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.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Crestliner Backwater Series 1655 Tiller 2009 at 16,0 ft versus Crestliner Raptor 1850 SC 2013 at 18,7 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Crestliner Raptor 1850 SC 2013 tips the scales at 1 470 lbs - 645 lbs less than the Crestliner Backwater Series 1655 Tiller 2009 at 825 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 200 hp, the Crestliner Raptor 1850 SC 2013 has a 150-hp advantage over the Crestliner Backwater Series 1655 Tiller 2009's 50-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 Raptor 1850 SC 2013 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Crestliner Backwater Series 1655 Tiller 2009 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crestliner Raptor 1850 SC 2013 could be the deciding factor.