Matching a deep vee Outerlimits 36 SL 2012 against a catamaran Outerlimits 48 Cat 2013 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Outerlimits 48 Cat 2013 measures 48,4 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 12,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the Outerlimits 36 SL 2012 at 36,0 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Outerlimits 48 Cat 2013 tips the scales at 1 015 lbs — 929 lbs less than the Outerlimits 36 SL 2012 at 86 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.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Outerlimits 48 Cat 2013 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Outerlimits 36 SL 2012 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Outerlimits 48 Cat 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Outerlimits 48 Cat 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 14 passengers and at 48,4 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Outerlimits 36 SL 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 10 that costs less to run day-to-day.