Matching a modified vee Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013 against a flat Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013 at 17,0 ft versus Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 at 18,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013 tips the scales at 1 553 lbs — 356 lbs more than the Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 at 1 197 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 Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 tops out at 90 hp. Engine specs for the Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 carries 18 gallons versus 2 gallons in the Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013. 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 Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Carolina Skiff DLX 1965 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 9 passengers and at 18,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Carolina Skiff DLV Series 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.