Matching a pontoon Starcraft Marine 226 RE 2010 against a modified vee Starcraft Marine Star Step 229 OB 2011 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 RE 2010 at 22,3 ft versus Starcraft Marine Star Step 229 OB 2011 at 21,5 ft. At 195 lbs and 284 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 Star Step 229 OB 2011 has a 100-hp advantage over the Starcraft Marine 226 RE 2010'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 Star Step 229 OB 2011 carries 51 gallons versus 24 gallons in the Starcraft Marine 226 RE 2010. 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 226 RE 2010 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Starcraft Marine Star Step 229 OB 2011 caps at 12. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Starcraft Marine 226 RE 2010 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Starcraft Marine 226 RE 2010 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 14 passengers and at 22,3 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Starcraft Marine Star Step 229 OB 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 12 that costs less to run day-to-day.