When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Manitou Pontoons 20 ft. Oasis SHP 2010 and the Manitou Pontoons 23 X-plode SHP 2011 are pontoon designs with aluminum 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 Manitou Pontoons 23 X-plode SHP 2011 measures 24,3 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 3,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Manitou Pontoons 20 ft. Oasis SHP 2010 at 20,8 feet (2010). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Manitou Pontoons 23 X-plode SHP 2011 tips the scales at 3 125 lbs — 2 877 lbs less than the Manitou Pontoons 20 ft. Oasis SHP 2010 at 248 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 Manitou Pontoons 23 X-plode SHP 2011 has a 75-hp advantage over the Manitou Pontoons 20 ft. Oasis SHP 2010's 175-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Manitou Pontoons 23 X-plode SHP 2011 carries 53 gallons versus 34 gallons in the Manitou Pontoons 20 ft. Oasis SHP 2010. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 1 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.
One place where both boats are genuinely identical is tube construction: both run 3 aluminum tubes at 23" diameter. That shared spec means stability and buoyancy characteristics are closely matched — the ride difference you'll feel between them comes primarily from deck length, weight distribution, and motor choice.
Bottom line: The Manitou Pontoons 23 X-plode SHP 2011 at 24,3 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Manitou Pontoons 20 ft. Oasis SHP 2010 at 20,8 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.