When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the South Bay 620CR TT 2009 and the South Bay 724SL TT 2012 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The South Bay 724SL TT 2012 measures 24,8 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 3,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the South Bay 620CR TT 2009 at 21,0 feet (2009). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the South Bay 724SL TT 2012 tips the scales at 286 lbs — 264 lbs less than the South Bay 620CR TT 2009 at 22 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 300 hp, the South Bay 724SL TT 2012 has a 125-hp advantage over the South Bay 620CR TT 2009's 175-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 29 gal and 27 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
Both boats are rated for 13 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Both are 3-tube and 2-tube pontoon designs respectively. Tube diameter and gauge affect stability and load capacity — more so than most buyers realize when comparing on paper.
Bottom line: The South Bay 724SL TT 2012 at 24,8 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The South Bay 620CR TT 2009 at 21,0 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.