Both the Formula 27 Cruiser 2011 and the Formula 290 FX4 2012 are deep-V designs, the first built in fibreglass and the second in aluminium, so 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 - Formula 27 Cruiser 2011 at 28,2 ft versus Formula 290 FX4 2012 at 29,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Formula 27 Cruiser 2011 tips the scales at 9 500 lbs - 550 lbs more than the Formula 290 FX4 2012 at 8 950 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.

Both boats are rated for 8 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.