When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the SeaArk BayRunner 2011 and the SeaArk ProCat 240 2013 are modified vee designs with aluminum 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The SeaArk ProCat 240 2013 measures 24,0 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 3,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the SeaArk BayRunner 2011 at 20,1 feet (2011). At 119 lbs and 172 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 225 hp, the SeaArk ProCat 240 2013 has a 85-hp advantage over the SeaArk BayRunner 2011's 140-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The SeaArk BayRunner 2011 is rated for 12 passengers, while the SeaArk ProCat 240 2013 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the SeaArk BayRunner 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the SeaArk BayRunner 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 12 passengers and at 20,1 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The SeaArk ProCat 240 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 7 that costs less to run day-to-day.