When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the South Bay 518CR 2012 and the South Bay 529CR Upper Deck TT 2011 are pontoon 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?
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 225 hp, the South Bay 529CR Upper Deck TT 2011 has a 135-hp advantage over the South Bay 518CR 2012's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the South Bay 529CR Upper Deck TT 2011 carries 31 gallons versus 27 gallons in the South Bay 518CR 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
The South Bay 518CR 2012 is rated for up to 10 people. Passenger data for the South Bay 529CR Upper Deck TT 2011 wasn't available.
One place where both boats are genuinely identical is tube construction: both run 2 aluminum tubes at 25" diameter. That shared spec means stability and buoyancy characteristics are closely matched — the ride difference you'll feel between them comes primarily from deck length, weight distribution, and motor choice.
Bottom line: The South Bay 529CR Upper Deck TT 2011 at 29,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The South Bay 518CR 2012 at 19,8 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.