When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Eastern 248 Explorer 2013 and the Eastern 248 Tournament 2013 are modified vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Eastern 248 Explorer 2013 at 24,0 ft versus Eastern 248 Tournament 2013 at 24,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Eastern 248 Tournament 2013 tips the scales at 1 985 lbs — 1 950 lbs less than the Eastern 248 Explorer 2013 at 35 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 150 hp, the Eastern 248 Explorer 2013 has a 60-hp advantage over the Eastern 248 Tournament 2013's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 7 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Eastern 248 Explorer 2013 and its 150-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Eastern 248 Tournament 2013 with its 90-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.