Both the Lund 1700 Explorer 2005 and the Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2011 are modified-V designs, both built in aluminium, so 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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2011 measures 20,5 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 3,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Lund 1700 Explorer 2005 at 17,0 feet (2005). At 1 080 lbs and 1 105 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 125 hp for the Lund 1700 Explorer 2005 and 115 hp for the Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2011. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads - 27 gal and 27 gal - so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
Both boats are rated for 6 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.
Bottom line: The Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2011 at 20,5 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Lund 1700 Explorer 2005 at 17,0 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.