When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Key West 198 SK 2013 and the Key West 225 DC 2011 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Key West 225 DC 2011 measures 22,4 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 3,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the Key West 198 SK 2013 at 19,0 feet (2013). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Key West 198 SK 2013 tips the scales at 135 lbs — 108 lbs more than the Key West 225 DC 2011 at 27 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 250 hp, the Key West 225 DC 2011 has a 110-hp advantage over the Key West 198 SK 2013's 140-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 3 gal and 1 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
Bottom line: The Key West 225 DC 2011 at 22,4 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Key West 198 SK 2013 at 19,0 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.