Matching a deep vee Eastern 22 Lobster 2008 against a modified vee Eastern 27 Islander 2013 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Eastern 27 Islander 2013 measures 27,3 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 5,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Eastern 22 Lobster 2008 at 22,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Eastern 22 Lobster 2008 tips the scales at 255 lbs — 247 lbs more than the Eastern 27 Islander 2013 at 8 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 22 Lobster 2008 carries a rated maximum of 135 hp. Engine data for the Eastern 27 Islander 2013 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Eastern 27 Islander 2013 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Eastern 22 Lobster 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 27 Islander 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Eastern 27 Islander 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 8 passengers and at 27,3 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Eastern 22 Lobster 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.