Matching a tri-hull SouthWind 201 FS 2011 against a modified vee SouthWind 2400 SD 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely 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 SouthWind 2400 SD 2012 measures 25,5 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 5,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the SouthWind 201 FS 2011 at 20,1 feet (2011). At 32 lbs and 51 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 200 hp for the SouthWind 201 FS 2011 and 200 hp for the SouthWind 2400 SD 2012. 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 SouthWind 2400 SD 2012 carries 55 gallons versus 5 gallons in the SouthWind 201 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 SouthWind 2400 SD 2012 is rated for 12 passengers, while the SouthWind 201 FS 2011 caps at 1. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the SouthWind 2400 SD 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the SouthWind 2400 SD 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 12 passengers and at 25,5 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The SouthWind 201 FS 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 1 that costs less to run day-to-day.