1997 Sea Ray 23 Boat in Harbor Springs, MI 49740 US
Built in 1997
23
1 Engine (MERCRUISER)
22.8 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
This 1997 Sea Ray 230 Bow Rider makes a full day on the water a non-stop pleasure! The huge sun pad and roomy bow area provide plenty of space for basking and lounging. Powered by a 5.7L EFI MerCruiser Alpha I stern drive that promises speed and performance to make any helmsman's heart race. She has always been freshwater kept and professionally maintained, trailer is not included.
- Brass Threaded Garboard Drain Plug
- Stainless Steel Bow and Stern Eyes
- Stainless Steel Bow Rail
- Navigation Lights
- Removable Stern Light
- Six (6) Stainless Steel Cleats
- PVC Rubrail with Stainless Steel Insert
- Integral Swim Platform w/ Concealed Stainless Steel Swim Ladder
- Stainless Steel Transom Rail w/ Integral Ski Tow
- Anchor Storage w/ Hatch
- Gel-coated Bilge Area
- Swivel Bucket Helm Seats
- Wrap around stern Seat that backs up to a large Sunpad
- Bow Rider Side Storage
- Ski/Board Storage w/ Snap-in Carpet & Gas-Assist Lid
- Lockable Helm Storage Compartment
- Bow Rider Walk-Through Door
- Cockpit Table
- Custom Soft-Touch Dash
- Wood-Accent Steering Wheel
- Tilt Steering
- Lockable Soft-Touch Glove Box
- 12V Clarion AM/FM Digital CD Changer Stereo w/ 4 Waterproof Speakers
- Built-in Insulated Ice Chest
- Eight (8) Beverage Holders
- Integral Armrests
- Color-Coordinated Grab Handles
- Trash Receptacle
- 12V Receptacle
- Tinted Curved Glass Windshield
- Sunbrella Convertible Top
- Concealed Convertible Top Storage
- Starboard Windshield Wiper
- Power Steering
- Shift & Throttle Lever w/ Trim Switch
- Power Tilt and Trim
- Automatic Bilge Pump
- Electric Bilge Blower
- Lowrance 3500 Depth Finder
- Compass
- Horn
- Battery tray w/ Mount
- Fuel Tank w/ Anti-Siphon Valve
- Fire Extinguisher Discharge Port
- Cockpit Courtesy Lights
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/9/26 | Initial price | $15,000 |
1997 Sea Ray 23 Video Tours
Boattest.com Review
Overview
The Sea Ray SPX 230 is the largest model in the SeaRay 40 XPX lineup, which also includes the 190 and 210 models. Available in both sterndrive and outboard configurations, the SPX 230 offers power options ranging from 250 to 300 horsepower. This model features a head compartment, optional seating arrangements, and a variety of comfort and performance enhancements designed to extend enjoyment on the water.
Exterior Design and Cockpit
The cockpit serves as the primary gathering space, featuring L-shaped seating across the back and starboard sides with a depth of 35 inches. Standard port seating includes a bench and a swivel bucket seat, with an optional flip-back bench seat available. Beverage holders, connectivity ports, and an engine hatch release latch are conveniently located within the seating area. Storage is ample, including a 36-quart carry-on cooler beneath the aft fixed seating. The elevation package adds a forward-facing, folding water sports tower with a bimini top positioned six feet three inches above the deck, an elevated tow point, and wakeboard racks. The decking is covered with snap-in SeaDek non-skid material, with options for carpet, infinity-woven vinyl, or no covering. The walk-through aft features a battery switch at the entrance, storage under the forward step, and a small gate. The 24-inch swim platform also has the optional SeaDek covering and includes a standard undermount swim ladder, with an optional 16-inch wide manual flip submersible swim step secured by a magnetic catch. A large sun pad covers the engine hatch, enhanced by a flip seat back to create a two-across aft-facing seat alongside the sun pad. Unique to the SPX 230 is a port side compartment that can house a head, either a port-a-potty or pump-out, or be used for storage. Overhead clearance in this compartment is three feet eight inches, with sitting headroom of two feet four inches. The bow seating arrangement consists of twin forward-facing V-seats and a central aft-facing seat, with 31 inches from deck to cap rail. Padded bolsters, stainless steel grab handles, speakers, drink holders, and courtesy lights enhance comfort and convenience. Storage is available beneath all bow seats, and two of the boat's four six-inch cleats are positioned outboard.
Helm and Instrumentation
The helm features analog gauges with upgrade options to a 5-inch or 9-inch Simrad display, both offering vessel viewing instrumentation. The standard single-zone Fusion stereo can be upgraded to a Signature Series system with four speakers, a 10-inch subwoofer, and a five-channel amplifier. The steering wheel is mounted on a tilt base, with ignition, bilge pump, and blower controls located to the right. The swivel bucket seat includes a flip-up bolster, and a beverage holder and connectivity ports are conveniently placed nearby. An angled footrest and courtesy light add to the helm's ergonomic design. However, the fire extinguisher's location could be improved for better accessibility.
Power and Performance
The SPX 230 measures 23 feet 6 inches in length overall, with a beam of 8 feet 6 inches and a draft of 38 inches. The boat's empty weight is 4,372 pounds, with an estimated test weight of 5,202 pounds including 75 percent fuel and three people aboard. The standard engine is a 250 horsepower 4.5-liter MerCruiser paired with an Alpha outdrive, with an upgrade option to a 300 horsepower 6.2-liter MPI ECT engine featuring C-Core technology, a Bravo 3 outdrive, and digital throttle and shift. During testing with the upgraded 250 horsepower engine and Bravo 3 outdrive equipped with a 22.5 pitch prop, the boat reached a top speed of 43 miles per hour at 5,000 RPM. Best cruising speed was 22.2 miles per hour at 3,000 RPM, achieving a fuel burn of six gallons per hour and a fuel economy of 3.7 miles per gallon, providing a range of 167 miles while maintaining a 10 percent fuel reserve from the 50-gallon tank. The boat planes in 4.5 seconds with an eight-degree bow rise, accelerates to 20 miles per hour in seven seconds, and reaches 30 miles per hour in 10.8 seconds. Handling is characterized by fingertip steering and excellent responsiveness, making it an engaging and enjoyable boat to drive. The hull performs well in choppy conditions, showing smooth transitions through waves without pounding or hull slap, and exhibits a 17-degree roll into turns without chine walk or prop ventilation. The boat does require gentle steering inputs during turns to avoid aggressive grab, ensuring passenger comfort.
Interior and Amenities
The SPX 230 provides comfortable seating with multiple social zones, including the cockpit, bow, and aft sun pad areas. The inclusion of a head compartment in the port side adds convenience for extended outings. Storage is thoughtfully integrated throughout the boat, supporting practical use and organization. The optional water sports tower and bimini top enhance versatility for recreational activities. Overall, the interior and amenities are designed to maximize enjoyment and functionality for day-long excursions.
Conclusion
The Sea Ray SPX 230 combines performance, comfort, and thoughtful design in a 23-foot package that is both fun to drive and practical for extended time on the water. Its responsive handling, efficient power options, and well-appointed social areas make it a versatile choice for recreational boating. The inclusion of a head compartment and multiple seating configurations further enhance its appeal. Overall, the SPX 230 successfully meets the goal of providing an enjoyable and functional boating experience.
Overview from around the web 1997 Sea Ray 23
Customers praise the 1997 Sea Ray 23 for its reliable performance and comfortable ride
Many highlight its spacious layout for a 23-foot boat, making it ideal for family outings and day cruising. The boat’s build quality and smooth handling receive positive remarks, with users appreciating how well it handles various water conditions. Additionally, owners often note the well-designed cabin space and convenient features that enhance overall boating enjoyment. Some mention that with proper maintenance, this model remains a dependable and enjoyable vessel even years after its release.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1997 Sea Ray 23 offers a blend of style, performance, and comfort that appeals to many boating enthusiasts. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Design: The Sea Ray 23 features a sleek and timeless design that has aged well, maintaining its appeal on the water.
Spacious Layout: Despite being a 23-foot boat, it offers a surprisingly roomy cockpit and comfortable seating, making it great for social outings and family trips.
Reliable Performance: Equipped with a solid engine option, it delivers dependable power and smooth handling, suitable for cruising and water sports.
Versatile Use: Its size and build make it versatile enough for day cruising, fishing, or towing activities like tubing and water skiing.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for sturdy construction and quality materials, and the 1997 model is no exception, providing durability and longevity.
Cons
Limited Cabin Space: While it has a small cabin area, it may feel cramped for extended overnight stays or for larger groups.
Older Technology: Being a 1997 model, it lacks some of the modern electronics and convenience features found on newer boats.
Maintenance Needs: As with any older boat, it may require more frequent maintenance and updates to keep systems running smoothly.
Fuel Efficiency: The engine technology from this era may not be as fuel-efficient compared to more recent models.
Storage Constraints: Storage space onboard can be limited, which might require careful planning for gear and supplies.
Made For
The 1997 Sea Ray 23 is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable vessel that combines comfort with performance. Perfect for small families, couples, or groups of friends, this boat is great for day cruising, water sports, and fishing adventures. Its manageable size makes it suitable for both experienced boaters and those newer to boating who want an easy-to-handle craft without sacrificing quality or style.
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Boats For Sale in Michigan, United States Similar to the 1997 Sea Ray 23
Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.
 1997 Sea Ray 23 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,000 | $24,500 | $24,900 | $4,495 | Price on request | Price on request |
| Harbor Springs | Utica | Spring Lake | Bellaire | Saint Clair Shores | Traverse City |
| - | 20' | 24' | 21' | 20' | 22' |
| MERCRUISER | Mercruiser | Mercruiser | MerCruiser | MerCruiser | Mercury |
| - | 220 hp | 300 hp | 4 hp | 200 hp | 250 hp |
| 62 | 2 | 71 | 569 | 331 | 174 |
Other Sea Ray 23 boats for sale in Michigan, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Michigan, United States
Meet the Broker
Address
Other Information about Irish Boat Shop
Irish Boat Shop has provided services to recreational boaters in Harbor Springs since 1961, Lake Charlevoix since 1971, and Traverse City since 2018. Our family-owned operation, modern facilities, and breadth of experience is why we're considered the boating experts in Northern Michigan.
Boat Location
Contact Irish Boat Shop about 1997 Sea Ray 23
400 E Bay St, Harbor Springs, MI, 49740
Login with Google