When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Tidewater Boats 228WA Excursion 2009 and the Tidewater Boats 250CC Adventure 2011 are modified vee designs with fiberglass 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?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Tidewater Boats 228WA Excursion 2009 at 21,8 ft versus Tidewater Boats 250CC Adventure 2011 at 24,7 ft. At 28 lbs and 4 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 300 hp, the Tidewater Boats 250CC Adventure 2011 has a 50-hp advantage over the Tidewater Boats 228WA Excursion 2009's 250-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Tidewater Boats 250CC Adventure 2011 carries 14 gallons versus 9 gallons in the Tidewater Boats 228WA Excursion 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Bottom line: The Tidewater Boats 250CC Adventure 2011 at 24,7 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Tidewater Boats 228WA Excursion 2009 at 21,8 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.