When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Gulf Stream Boats 250CC 2011 and the Gulf Stream Boats 290CC 2011 are catamaran 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 — Gulf Stream Boats 250CC 2011 at 26,3 ft versus Gulf Stream Boats 290CC 2011 at 29,1 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Gulf Stream Boats 290CC 2011 tips the scales at 445 lbs — 406 lbs less than the Gulf Stream Boats 250CC 2011 at 39 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 500 hp, the Gulf Stream Boats 290CC 2011 has a 100-hp advantage over the Gulf Stream Boats 250CC 2011's 400-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 252 gal and 252 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
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.
Bottom line: The Gulf Stream Boats 290CC 2011 at 29,1 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Gulf Stream Boats 250CC 2011 at 26,3 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.