The SouthWind 201 FS 2012 is a tri-hull design and the SouthWind 2400 SD 2013 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 2013 measures 25,5 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 5,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the SouthWind 201 FS 2012 at 20,1 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the SouthWind 2400 SD 2013 tips the scales at 5 100 lbs - 700 lbs less than the SouthWind 201 FS 2012 at 4 400 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 200 hp, the SouthWind 2400 SD 2013 has a 85-hp advantage over the SouthWind 201 FS 2012's 115-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the SouthWind 2400 SD 2013 carries 55 gallons versus 50 gallons in the SouthWind 201 FS 2012. 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 2013 is rated for 12 passengers, while the SouthWind 201 FS 2012 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the SouthWind 2400 SD 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the SouthWind 2400 SD 2013 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 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 10 that costs less to run day-to-day.