Matching a flat Crestliner CR 1236 2011 against a modified vee Crestliner Sportsman 14 SS 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely 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 CR 1236 2011 at 11,9 ft versus Crestliner Sportsman 14 SS 2012 at 14,8 ft. At 14 lbs and 52 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 35 hp, the Crestliner Sportsman 14 SS 2012 has a 25-hp advantage over the Crestliner CR 1236 2011'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 Sportsman 14 SS 2012 is rated for 4 passengers, while the Crestliner CR 1236 2011 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crestliner Sportsman 14 SS 2012 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Crestliner CR 1236 2011 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 2 lbs per hp for the Crestliner Sportsman 14 SS 2012. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: Choose the Crestliner Sportsman 14 SS 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 4 passengers and at 14,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Crestliner CR 1236 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.