Matching a deep vee Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2013 against a pontoon Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 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 Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 2012 measures 24,8 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 5,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2013 at 19,8 feet (2013). At 143 lbs and 228 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 Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2013 has a 50-hp advantage over the Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 2012'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 Fishmaster 196 2013 carries 52 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 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 Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 2012 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2013 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Starcraft Marine Majestic 236 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 13 passengers and at 24,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Starcraft Marine Fishmaster 196 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 9 that costs less to run day-to-day.