When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Lund 1675 Explorer SS 2011 and the Lund 186 Tyee GL 2009 are modified vee designs with aluminum 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 — Lund 1675 Explorer SS 2011 at 16,7 ft versus Lund 186 Tyee GL 2009 at 18,0 ft. At 114 lbs and 18 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 175 hp, the Lund 186 Tyee GL 2009 has a 85-hp advantage over the Lund 1675 Explorer SS 2011's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Lund 1675 Explorer SS 2011 carries 19 gallons versus 4 gallons in the Lund 186 Tyee GL 2009. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 5 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Lund 186 Tyee GL 2009 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 1 lbs per hp for the Lund 1675 Explorer SS 2011. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Lund 186 Tyee GL 2009 and its 175-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Lund 1675 Explorer SS 2011 with its 90-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.