Both the Rinker 296 Captiva Bowrider 2009 and the Rinker Express Cruiser 360 EC 2012 are deep-V designs, both built in fibreglass, so 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?

The Rinker Express Cruiser 360 EC 2012 tops out at 380 hp. Engine specs for the Rinker 296 Captiva Bowrider 2009 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Rinker Express Cruiser 360 EC 2012 carries 235 gallons versus 100 gallons in the Rinker 296 Captiva Bowrider 2009. 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 Rinker Express Cruiser 360 EC 2012 is rated for 11 passengers, while the Rinker 296 Captiva Bowrider 2009 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Rinker Express Cruiser 360 EC 2012 could be the deciding factor.