1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Sold Boat in Sturgeon Bay, WI US
Built in 1989
280 SUNDANCER
2 Engines (2x MERCRUISER)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
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 1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $10,995 | $10,900 | $10,900 | $11,495 | $11,995 | $9,995 |
| Location | Sturgeon Bay | Bayfield | Ashland | La Crosse | Milwaukee | Milwaukee |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 26' | 32' | 34' | 24' | 30' |
| Engine Make | MERCRUISER | Mercury | Volvo Penta | MERCRUISER | MerCruiser | Mercruiser |
| Total Engine Power | 220 hp | 250 hp | 260 hp | - | 220 hp | 260 hp |
| Days on Market | 372 | 74 | 471 | 102 | 513 | 468 |
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Other Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States
Classic Cruising Comfort
Experience timeless boating with this 1989 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, a classic freshwater cruiser that combines reliable performance with comfortable
accommodations. Perfect for weekend getaways, day cruising, or relaxing on the lake, this 28-foot Sundancer offers a spacious cockpit and cabin ideal for a couple or small family.
Powered by twin MerCruiser 4.3L LX engines (220HP each), this boat delivers smooth, dependable performance and effortless handling. Its thoughtful layout includes a cozy cabin, functional helm, and ample seating, giving you everything you need for a fun and relaxing day on the water.
With Sea Ray's reputation for quality and durability, this Sundancer offers a classic boating experience at an accessible price point, perfect for someone looking to enjoy lake life with style, comfort, and reliability.
Showings available by appointment. Schedule your tour today and start making memories on the water!
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 9/23/25 | Price decreased | $10,995(-31.3%) |
| 9/4/25 | Initial price | $15,995 |
1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Video Tours
Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER: BoatTEST 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 1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
Customers praise the 1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER for its classic styling and solid build quality
Many highlight its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior, making it ideal for weekend cruising and overnight stays. Owners appreciate the boat’s reliable performance and ease of handling, especially in coastal waters. The layout is often noted for maximizing space, with a well-equipped galley and cozy sleeping quarters. While some mention that updates to electronics and upholstery may be needed, overall, the 280 SUNDANCER is valued for its timeless appeal and dependable functionality.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1989 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a classic express cruiser that has remained popular among boating enthusiasts for its blend of style, comfort, and performance. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Timeless Design: The 280 Sundancer features a sleek and stylish profile that has aged well, offering a classic look that many boaters appreciate.
Spacious Cabin: For a 28-foot boat, it provides a surprisingly roomy interior with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a small galley, and a head, making it suitable for weekend cruising.
Good Performance: Powered by reliable engines, the Sundancer offers solid performance with smooth handling and decent speed for its class.
Versatile Layout: The cockpit layout is well-designed for entertaining, with ample seating and a convenient wet bar area.
Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for quality craftsmanship, and the 280 Sundancer is no exception, offering durable construction and good attention to detail.
Cons
Aging Systems: Being a 1989 model, many onboard systems such as electrical, plumbing, and engine components may require updates or maintenance.
Limited Storage: While the cabin is spacious, storage space can be somewhat limited, especially for longer trips or extended stays aboard.
Fuel Efficiency: The boat’s fuel consumption can be higher compared to more modern designs with improved engine technology.
Outdated Electronics: Original onboard electronics and navigation systems are likely outdated and may need upgrading to modern standards.
Maintenance Costs: As with many older boats, ongoing maintenance and potential repairs can add up, so it's important to factor this into ownership costs.
Made For
The 1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and stylish cruiser that combines comfort with performance. Perfect for small families or couples who enjoy weekend getaways, day cruising, and watersports, this model offers ample cabin space, user-friendly handling, and reliable power, making it suitable for both seasoned boaters and those new to boating looking to explore lakes, rivers, and coastal waters with confidence.
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Contact SkipperBud's Sturgeon Bay about 1989 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
Sturgeon Bay, WI
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