Matching a tri-hull Hurricane Boats FD 196F OB 2012 against a pontoon Hurricane Boats FD 198 RE OB 2009 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.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Hurricane Boats FD 196F OB 2012 at 18,8 ft versus Hurricane Boats FD 198 RE OB 2009 at 19,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Hurricane Boats FD 198 RE OB 2009 tips the scales at 3 127 lbs — 129 lbs less than the Hurricane Boats FD 196F OB 2012 at 2 998 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 share a closely matched power ceiling — 150 hp for the Hurricane Boats FD 196F OB 2012 and 150 hp for the Hurricane Boats FD 198 RE OB 2009. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 29 gal and 29 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

Both boats are rated for 9 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.