Matching a pontoon Starcraft Marine Limited 256 2012 against a modified vee Starcraft Marine SL 12 2009 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 Limited 256 2012 measures 26,8 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 15,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Starcraft Marine SL 12 2009 at 11,0 feet (2009). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Starcraft Marine Limited 256 2012 tips the scales at 2 575 lbs — 2 451 lbs more than the Starcraft Marine SL 12 2009 at 124 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 Starcraft Marine Limited 256 2012 has a 190-hp advantage over the Starcraft Marine SL 12 2009's 10-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Starcraft Marine Limited 256 2012 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Starcraft Marine SL 12 2009 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Starcraft Marine Limited 256 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Starcraft Marine Limited 256 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 14 passengers and at 26,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Starcraft Marine SL 12 2009 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.