1997 Sea Ray 280
$30,000
Boat in La Porte, IN 46350 US
Built in 1997
280
2 Engines (2x Mercruiser)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
A clean Sea Ray day boat with a trailer! It has A/C and a bumping stereo system! Plenty of space in the cabin to sleep comfortably and an automatic pump for the head.
*ALL BOATS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE OVER SEASON* PRICES MAY CHANGE* CONTACT US FOR CURRENT DETAILS AND SPECIALS*
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/28/25 | Initial price | $30,000 |
1997 Sea Ray 280 Video Tours
Boattest.com Review
Overview
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed as an excellent transitional boat for those moving up from bow riders to a true cruising vessel. It offers a blend of comfortable accommodations, practical features, and solid performance, making it well suited for cruising enthusiasts seeking a versatile and well-equipped boat.
Interior Living Spaces
Below deck, the salon provides a generous headroom of 6 feet 2 inches, which tapers as you move forward toward the bow dinette area. The bow features wraparound banquet seating with a table that conveniently drops down to form a large double berth. Natural light fills the space through an opening hatch and a substantial 29 by 24-inch skylight, which also includes a blackout shade for privacy or late mornings. The galley is modestly sized but adequately equipped for the 280 Sundancer, accommodating standard appliances such as a stove, microwave, and refrigerator/freezer. The mid cabin offers 2 feet 2 inches of headroom, with a raised section under the helm seat increasing to 3 feet 2 inches. This area includes an opening port light that connects visually to the cockpit. The berth in the mid cabin measures 5 feet 11 inches long by 4 feet 1.5 inches wide, providing a comfortable private sleeping area.
Power and Performance
Powered by a MerCruiser 300 horsepower 350 MAG engine paired with a Bravo 3 outdrive, the 280 Sundancer achieves a top speed of 41.5 miles per hour at 5260 RPM. At this speed, fuel consumption is 23.4 gallons per hour, yielding a range of approximately 134 miles. The most efficient cruise speed was found at 3500 RPM, delivering 23.6 miles per hour with a fuel burn of 9.7 gallons per hour. At this pace, the boat can run for nearly 7 hours and 48 minutes, covering 184 miles while maintaining a 10% fuel reserve. Acceleration is brisk, with a time to plane of 4.8 seconds, reaching 20 mph in 8.3 seconds, 30 mph in 14.2 seconds, and 40 mph in 21.9 seconds. The boat exhibits a 12-degree bow rise during acceleration without compromising forward visibility, and cruises at a 5-degree bow-high angle with minimal trim adjustments. Handling is responsive, with comfortable 18-degree rolls into hard turns and only minor prop ventilation that is easily corrected by adjusting the drive. Despite its single-engine configuration, the 280 Sundancer is notably maneuverable in tight docking situations.
Cockpit and Exterior Features
The cockpit of the 280 Sundancer is well-appointed with a wet bar featuring a sink and space for an optional grill. Below the bar is a carry-on cooler that can be replaced with a cockpit refrigerator. Above, a sports spoiler supports a standard Bimini top equipped with side curtains for protection against inclement weather. The helm station is clean and functional, outfitted with three gauges including a SmartCraft gauge and a 4-in-1 gauge, with space below for an optional touchscreen chart plotter. A standard VHF radio is included, and the helm console is finished with a tasteful faux Burledwood fascia. The helm seat swivels and the seat back reverses, allowing up to seven people to comfortably face each other around the cockpit table, a design feature borrowed from larger Sea Ray models. The engine hatch is electrically actuated, revealing a gel-coated engine room equipped with a standard automatic fire extinguisher. Optional powerplants include a 283 horsepower diesel engine or a 380 horsepower gasoline engine. Access to the bow is via center-mounted steps leading through a walk-through windshield. The bow area is surrounded by non-skid decking and features a large skylight and opening forward hatch. It is molded to accommodate optional equipment such as a windlass, stainless steel anchor roller, and a 5-inch remote spotlight, with a hatch providing easy access beneath the windlass for anchor line management. At the stern, storage is available behind the aft cockpit seat, which also folds down to form a sun pad. A microswitch alerts the captain when the seat is reclined, ensuring safety by preventing operation while underway.
Conclusion
Overall, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer presents itself as a well-rounded, transitional cruiser that offers nearly all the essentials needed for enjoyable cruising. It combines comfortable interior accommodations, thoughtful cockpit amenities, and respectable performance characteristics. The inclusion of several upgraded features and optional powerplants further enhances its appeal. This model is well suited for boaters seeking a capable and comfortable step up from smaller recreational boats.
Overview from around the web 1997 Sea Ray 280
Customers praise the 1997 Sea Ray 280 for its classic design, spacious layout, and reliable performance
Many highlight its comfortable cabin accommodations and well-appointed features, making it ideal for weekend cruising or day trips. Owners appreciate the boat's solid construction and ease of handling, which contribute to a confident and enjoyable boating experience. Some also note that with proper maintenance, the Sea Ray 280 remains a dependable vessel that holds its value over time. Overall, feedback emphasizes the balance of comfort, style, and functionality that this model offers.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1997 Sea Ray 280 is a popular express cruiser known for its blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Layout: The Sea Ray 280 offers a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a functional galley, and a roomy head, making it suitable for overnight trips.
Performance: Powered by reliable engines, it delivers smooth handling and good speed for a boat of its size.
Build Quality: Known for solid construction and quality materials, the 1997 model maintains durability over time.
Versatility: Ideal for day cruising, weekend getaways, and fishing, accommodating various recreational activities.
Amenities: Equipped with essential features such as a cockpit seating area, swim platform, and optional upgrades for added convenience.
Cons
Aging Systems: Being a 1997 model, some mechanical and electrical systems may require updates or maintenance.
Fuel Efficiency: Larger engines can be less fuel-efficient compared to newer models with modern technology.
Limited Storage: While spacious, storage compartments may be somewhat limited for extended cruising gear.
Technology: Lacks modern navigation and entertainment systems found in newer boats, potentially requiring aftermarket upgrades.
Maintenance Costs: Older boats can have higher upkeep costs, especially if not meticulously maintained.
Made For
The 1997 Sea Ray 280 is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable vessel for day cruising, weekend getaways, or water sports. Its spacious design and comfortable accommodations make it perfect for small families, couples, or groups of friends looking to enjoy time on the water with ease and style. Whether you're a seasoned boater or new to boating, the Sea Ray 280 offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and functionality.
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 1997 Sea Ray 280 | |||||
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| $30,000 | $29,900 | $19,995 | $15,500 | $54,900 | $4,500 |
| La Porte | Michigan City | Rockville | La Porte | Michigan City | Noblesville |
| 28' | 26' | 20' | 21' | 32' | 18' |
| Mercruiser | MerCruiser | Mercruiser | 5.0 L Alpha I MerCruiser | MerCruiser | Mercruiser |
| - | 300 hp | 200 hp | 220 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| 809 | 307 | 35 | 659 | 211 | 30 |
Other Sea Ray 280 boats for sale in Indiana, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Indiana, United States
Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Service 1 Marine about 1997 Sea Ray 280
10553 North St Rd 39, La Porte, IN, 46350
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