Matching a pontoon Starcraft Marine 226 Cruise 2011 against a tri-hull Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Starcraft Marine 226 Cruise 2011 at 22,3 ft versus Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 2012 at 21,6 ft. At 21 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 250 hp, the Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 2012 has a 100-hp advantage over the Starcraft Marine 226 Cruise 2011's 150-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 2012 carries 75 gallons versus 24 gallons in the Starcraft Marine 226 Cruise 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 Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 2012 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Starcraft Marine 226 Cruise 2011 caps at 11. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Starcraft Marine Crossover 220 SCX OB 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 13 passengers and at 21,6 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Starcraft Marine 226 Cruise 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 11 that costs less to run day-to-day.