When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Lund 1800 Explorer 2005 and the Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2012 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 1800 Explorer 2005 at 18,0 ft versus Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2012 at 20,5 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2012 tips the scales at 1 105 lbs — 981 lbs less than the Lund 1800 Explorer 2005 at 124 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 150 hp, the Lund 1800 Explorer 2005 has a 35-hp advantage over the Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2012's 115-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 1800 Explorer 2005 carries 32 gallons versus 27 gallons in the Lund 2000 Alaskan Tiller 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
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 2012 at 20,5 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Lund 1800 Explorer 2005 at 18,0 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.