When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 and the Maritime 23-D 2008 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 20 Defiant 2011 at 20,6 ft versus Maritime 23-D 2008 at 23,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 tips the scales at 204 lbs — 179 lbs more than the Maritime 23-D 2008 at 25 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 Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 carries a rated maximum of 150 hp. Engine data for the Maritime 23-D 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Maritime 23-D 2008 carries 83 gallons versus 29 gallons in the Maritime 20 Defiant 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
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 23-D 2008 at 23,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Maritime 20 Defiant 2011 at 20,6 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.