When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the ThunderJet Alexis 2012 and the ThunderJet Denali 2013 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 — ThunderJet Alexis 2012 at 21,0 ft versus ThunderJet Denali 2013 at 18,0 ft. At 32 lbs and 19 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 ThunderJet Alexis 2012 carries a rated maximum of 32 hp. Engine data for the ThunderJet Denali 2013 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the ThunderJet Denali 2013 carries 48 gallons versus 5 gallons in the ThunderJet Alexis 2012. 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 ThunderJet Alexis 2012 is rated for 6 passengers, while the ThunderJet Denali 2013 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ThunderJet Alexis 2012 could be the deciding factor.