The Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 2013 is a deep-V design and the Lund 197 Pro-V GL 2011 is a modified-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably 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 - Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 2013 at 18,8 ft versus Lund 197 Pro-V GL 2011 at 19,6 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lund 197 Pro-V GL 2011 tips the scales at 2 100 lbs - 1 070 lbs less than the Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 2013 at 1 030 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 225 hp, the Lund 197 Pro-V GL 2011 has a 135-hp advantage over the Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 2013'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 197 Pro-V GL 2011 carries 60 gallons versus 19 gallons in the Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 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 Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 2013 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Lund 197 Pro-V GL 2011 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Lund 1800 Alaskan SS 2013 could be the deciding factor.