The Regulator 26 FS 2011 is a modified-V design and the Regulator 29FS 2009 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 Regulator 29FS 2009 measures 29,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 3,2 additional feet of deck space compared to the Regulator 26 FS 2011 at 25,8 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Regulator 29FS 2009 tips the scales at 6 900 lbs - 684 lbs less than the Regulator 26 FS 2011 at 6 216 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 500 hp for the Regulator 26 FS 2011 and 500 hp for the Regulator 29FS 2009. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Regulator 29FS 2009 carries 285 gallons versus 200 gallons in the Regulator 26 FS 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Regulator 29FS 2009 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Regulator 26 FS 2011 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Regulator 29FS 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Regulator 29FS 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 8 passengers and at 29,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Regulator 26 FS 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 7 that costs less to run day-to-day.