When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Skeeter FX 21 2013 and the Skeeter SL 1800 2011 are modified vee designs with composite 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 — Skeeter FX 21 2013 at 20,8 ft versus Skeeter SL 1800 2011 at 18,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Skeeter FX 21 2013 tips the scales at 2 175 lbs — 1 990 lbs more than the Skeeter SL 1800 2011 at 185 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 300 hp, the Skeeter FX 21 2013 has a 150-hp advantage over the Skeeter SL 1800 2011's 150-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 5 gal and 3 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
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.
Bottom line: The Skeeter FX 21 2013 at 20,8 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Skeeter SL 1800 2011 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.