When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Maritime 1890 2011 and the Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 are modified vee designs with composite 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 — Maritime 1890 2011 at 18,5 ft versus Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 at 20,6 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 tips the scales at 204 lbs — 191 lbs less than the Maritime 1890 2011 at 13 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 150 hp, the Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 has a 35-hp advantage over the Maritime 1890 2011's 115-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 26 gal and 29 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 Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 at 20,6 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Maritime 1890 2011 at 18,5 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.