The Eastern 20 Center Console 2008 is a modified-V design and the Eastern 248 Islander 2012 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Eastern 248 Islander 2012 measures 24,0 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 4,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Eastern 20 Center Console 2008 at 20,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Eastern 248 Islander 2012 tips the scales at 3 500 lbs - 2 000 lbs less than the Eastern 20 Center Console 2008 at 1 500 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 Eastern 20 Center Console 2008 carries a rated maximum of 90 hp. Engine data for the Eastern 248 Islander 2012 wasn't available in our records - check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Eastern 248 Islander 2012 carries 90 gallons versus 40 gallons in the Eastern 20 Center Console 2008. 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 Eastern 248 Islander 2012 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Eastern 20 Center Console 2008 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Eastern 248 Islander 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Eastern 248 Islander 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 7 passengers and at 24,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Eastern 20 Center Console 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.