When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Starcraft Marine STARFISH Series 2009 and the Starcraft Marine Starliner 256 2011 are pontoon designs with wood construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?

The Starcraft Marine Starliner 256 2011 tops out at 200 hp. Engine specs for the Starcraft Marine STARFISH Series 2009 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Starcraft Marine STARFISH Series 2009 carries 24 gallons versus 3 gallons in the Starcraft Marine Starliner 256 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.