Matching a tri-hull SouthWind 201 L 2011 against a pontoon SouthWind 229 FS 2008 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — SouthWind 201 L 2011 at 20,1 ft versus SouthWind 229 FS 2008 at 22,0 ft. At 32 lbs and 35 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 200 hp, the SouthWind 201 L 2011 has a 85-hp advantage over the SouthWind 229 FS 2008'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 229 FS 2008 carries 35 gallons versus 5 gallons in the SouthWind 201 L 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 229 FS 2008 is rated for 11 passengers, while the SouthWind 201 L 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 229 FS 2008 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the SouthWind 229 FS 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 11 passengers and at 22,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The SouthWind 201 L 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.