Matching a modified vee Sea Chaser 180 FS 2013 against a deep vee Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 measures 22,8 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 5,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Sea Chaser 180 FS 2013 at 17,8 feet (2013). At 172 lbs and 245 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 Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 has a 100-hp advantage over the Sea Chaser 180 FS 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 Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 carries 52 gallons versus 33 gallons in the Sea Chaser 180 FS 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 Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Sea Chaser 180 FS 2013 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Sea Chaser 230 LX 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 8 passengers and at 22,8 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Sea Chaser 180 FS 2013 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.