1999 Sea Ray 280 Boat in Stamford, CT 06902 US

$19,900

Used
builtBuilt in 1999
Year the boat was built
model

280

Boat model
engine

--

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

--

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
27.5ft
Beam
9.5ft
Dry Weight
6400127lb
Fresh Water Tanks
24gal
Fuel Tanks
127gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Summary
1999 Searay 280 Bowrider repowered with Trailer

Price History

DateEventPrice
9/26/26Initial price$19,900

Contact Waterline Yacht Sales

27 Houston Ter Apt 4, Stamford, CT , 06902

Sea Ray 280: BoatTEST Review

Reviewed by Jeff Hammond

Overview

The Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard represents the brand's top-of-the-line series, thoughtfully reimagined from the water up to emphasize luxury, innovative technology, and enhanced functionality for both entertainment and adventure. This model comes standard with dual 250 horsepower Mercury outboards paired with joystick piloting, available in black or white. Measuring 31 feet, 5 inches in length overall, with a beam of nine feet and a draft of 35 inches, the SLX 280 is designed to deliver a balanced combination of performance and comfort.

Power and Performance

Powered by dual Mercury outboards, the SLX 280 has a dry weight of approximately 8,053 pounds, with the demo model weighing around 9,500 pounds. Fuel capacity is 135 gallons, complemented by a 20-gallon freshwater tank. Performance testing revealed an economical cruise speed at 4,000 rpm, achieving 35.4 miles per hour and fuel efficiency of 2.1 miles per gallon, translating to a range of 249 statute miles with a 10% fuel reserve. At wide open throttle (6,100 rpm), the boat reached a top speed of 56.4 miles per hour. The vessel demonstrates quick planing even when fully loaded and promises a smooth, stable ride in various water conditions.

Cockpit and Exterior Features

The cockpit serves as the central social hub, featuring opposing seating arrangements that foster interaction among guests. Upholstery is crafted from high-quality, durable materials with intricate diamond stitch work and ergonomic design, including deeper seats with lumbar support and water-shedding capabilities. The captain's chair is notably wide at 39 inches, accommodating two people comfortably, swiveling to expand the social area, and equipped with convenient cup holders, USB ports, and a hidden inductive charger. Beneath the captain’s seat is a drawer-style 12-volt refrigerator, a rare and clever space utilization for a boat of this size. Additional cockpit amenities include a locking glove compartment, a vacuum-flush head with sink and storage, and a large storage locker in the sole designed to accommodate long items such as skis.

Helm and Technology

The helm station is equipped with joystick piloting for outboards, digital throttle controls, and a tilt steering wheel wrapped in premium material. Dual 12-inch multifunction displays provide comprehensive navigation, vessel, and engine information, while stainless steel tilt switches and active trim controls offer intuitive redundancy. The onboard audio system, developed in collaboration with Fusion, features nine strategically placed signature series speakers and a subwoofer, delivering superior sound quality with minimal distortion. Safety is enhanced by a First Mate marine safety and security system that replaces the traditional kill switch lanyard with a wearable FOB that automatically shuts off the engine if the operator moves beyond a preset distance.

Additional Exterior Amenities

The SLX 280 includes an electrically actuated power tower that provides 6 feet, 7 inches of headroom when raised and 4 feet, 11 inches when lowered. This tower features a downlight projecting the Sea Ray logo, a slide-out shade for cockpit sun protection, and options for additional tower speakers and swiveling wakeboard racks. The cockpit is illuminated by an optional lighting bundle with RGB LED lights both above and below the waterline, docking lights, and an illuminated Sea Ray badge. Boarding is facilitated by a solid wood step on the starboard side and a swinging transom gate to port. The integrated swim platform includes a concealed four-step stainless steel ladder with grab handles. The large sun pad, measuring 68 by 42 inches, offers another social area with cup holders and under-pad storage that can double as a cooler.

Bow Area and Storage

Accessed through a hinged windshield with a locking air dam, the bow area features two forward-facing loungers and a rear-facing bench, all equipped with fold-down armrests and multiple cup holders. The seating is spacious, extending 58 inches from the backrest forward, accommodating taller guests comfortably. Underneath the bow lounges are storage compartments, with the starboard side offering a larger space. Dedicated storage spots are provided for the bow filler cushion and tables included in the comfort bundle. Optional equipment includes a bow boarding ladder and an anchor bundle featuring an electric windlass and washdown nozzle.

Conclusion

The Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard is a thoughtfully designed vessel that balances upscale amenities with powerful propulsion and innovative features. Its spacious and ergonomically refined cockpit, advanced helm technology, and versatile exterior options make it well-suited for boaters seeking luxury, performance, and customization. The model’s attention to detail and functional design elements support a comfortable and enjoyable boating experience, whether for social gatherings or adventurous outings.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Overview from around the web 1999 Sea Ray 280

Customers generally praise the 1999 Sea Ray 280 for its excellent performance, spacious layout, and solid build quality

Many owners highlight its versatility, making it suitable for both day cruising and overnight trips. The well-designed cabin offers comfortable sleeping accommodations and a functional galley, allowing for a more enjoyable experience on the water. Additionally, buyers often mention the boat's powerful twin engine setup, delivering impressive speed and handling, which enhances the overall boating experience. The sleek, classic Sea Ray design also tends to receive positive remarks, contributing to the boat's visual appeal. Overall, owners appreciate the balance of comfort, performance, and style that the Sea Ray 280 provides, making it a popular choice among boating enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

1999 Sea Ray 280: Pros and Cons

Pros

Spacious Interior: The 1999 Sea Ray 280 features a well-designed cabin that maximizes space, providing comfortable accommodations for family and friends. With a V-berth and aft cabin, there's ample sleeping capacity.

Powerful Performance: Equipped with twin MerCruiser engines, the Sea Ray 280 offers impressive performance on the water, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride whether you're cruising or watersports.

Stylish Design: The sleek lines and classic aesthetics of the Sea Ray 280 give it a timeless appeal, making it a stylish choice for boaters who appreciate elegance.

Versatile Layout: The cockpit layout is designed for both relaxation and functionality, with ample seating and room for entertaining. The swim platform enhances accessibility to water activities.

Quality Construction: As with other Sea Ray models, the 280 is built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring durability and long-lasting enjoyment.

Storage Space: The boat incorporates various storage compartments to keep gear organized, enhancing the onboard experience.

Cons

Fuel Consumption: With twin engines, the Sea Ray 280 can be less fuel-efficient than smaller boats, which may lead to higher operating costs over time.

Age-Related Maintenance: Being a 1999 model, some owners may face the need for repairs or upgrades due to wear and tear, which can be a consideration for potential buyers.

Limited Draft: The boat's draft may limit your ability to navigate in shallower waters, which could restrict access to some areas, especially in coastal or inland regions.

Outdated Technology: While it is a well-built boat, certain electronics and navigational equipment may feel dated compared to newer models, which can impact the overall boating experience.

Weight: The size and weight of the Sea Ray 280 may make trailering and launching more challenging compared to lighter vessels.

Made For

The 1999 Sea Ray 280 is a versatile and charming cruiser, designed for boaters who seek a blend of performance, comfort, and style on the water. This model is ideal for families and groups of friends who enjoy weekend getaways or day trips. Its spacious cockpit and comfortable seating offer the perfect setting for entertaining or relaxing after a day of water activities. With a dependable engine and solid construction, the Sea Ray 280 is perfect for both seasoned boaters looking for a reliable vessel and newcomers eager to dive into the boating lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in fishing, water sports, or simply cruising along the coast, this model provides the capability and comfort to suit various aquatic adventures. Additionally, the well-appointed cabin, complete with sleeping facilities and a galley, allows for easy overnight excursions, making it a great choice for those who appreciate the convenience of spending time on the water without sacrificing comfort. Overall, the 1999 Sea Ray 280 is tailored for anyone yearning for memorable experiences on the open water.

Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market

Get notified when new boats become available

Boats For Sale in Connecticut, United States Similar to the 1999 Sea Ray 280

Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.

This Boat
Similar Boats
 
The Image of Sea Ray 280 1999 - 79172231999 Sea Ray 280
Price$19,900$19,900$19,500$22,900$27,500$37,000
LocationStamfordNorwalkEastonChesterDeep RiverStamford
Nominal Length28'21'26'21'24'28'
Engine Make-Mercruiser-MercruiserMerCruiserMerCruiser
Total Engine Power-260 hp375 hp260 hp260 hp260 hp
Days on Market2113649162019
Get in touch

Other Sea Ray 280 boats for sale in Connecticut, United States

Meet the Broker

Address

27 Houston Ter Apt 4
Stamford, CT 06902
Other Information about Waterline Yacht Sales

Launcvhing Soon

Want to update the details or images for this boat? Claim this listing by getting in touch.

Boat Location

Be the First to Know

Get notified when new boats become available.