When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the River Hawk Eco Sport Series 2013 and the River Hawk GB Series 2013 are deep 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 — River Hawk Eco Sport Series 2013 at 17,0 ft versus River Hawk GB Series 2013 at 19,0 ft. At 145 lbs and 135 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 250 hp, the River Hawk Eco Sport Series 2013 has a 100-hp advantage over the River Hawk GB Series 2013's 150-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the River Hawk GB Series 2013 carries 45 gallons versus 35 gallons in the River Hawk Eco Sport Series 2013. 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.