1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Sold Boat in Madison, WI US
Built in 1990
280 SUNDANCER
2 Engines (2x MERCRUISER)
28 feet
Other
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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
1990 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 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
The 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is often praised by boat owners for its blend of performance, comfort, and style
Customers appreciate the sleek and timeless design that makes it stand out on the water. Many have noted the spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, providing an enjoyable experience for both day cruising and overnight stays. The vessel’s powerful twin engines are frequently commended for their reliability and agility, allowing for smooth handling even in rough conditions. Owners also highlight the ease of maintenance and availability of parts, making it a practical choice for those who love to spend time on the water. Inside, the cabin's layout offers a cozy atmosphere with ample seating and sleeping accommodations, making it great for families or friends. The inclusion of modern amenities, such as a galley and head, enhances the overall experience aboard. Additionally, many customers mention the strong resale value of the 280 SUNDANCER, solidifying its reputation as a well-built and sought-after model in the boating community. Overall, former owners reflect positively on their experiences, emphasizing that the 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER offers a perfect balance of performance, comfort, and style.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is a classic express cruiser that has captivated boating enthusiasts for decades. Here's a look at its pros and cons:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The cabin features a well-designed layout with ample seating, a small galley, and comfortable sleeping accommodations for four to six people, making it an excellent choice for weekend getaways.
Performance: Equipped with powerful twin engines, the 280 SUNDANCER offers impressive speed and handling, ensuring an exhilarating on-water experience.
Versatile Deck Space: The boat's open cockpit design provides easy access and plenty of room for socializing, sunbathing, or entertaining guests while docked or cruising.
Solid Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for its durable craftsmanship, and the 280 SUNDANCER is no exception, featuring a well-constructed hull and high-quality materials that stand the test of time.
Family-Friendly Features: The boat includes safety features, a swim platform, and ample storage, making it ideal for families and group outings.
Cons
Age-Related Wear and Tear: Being a 1990 model, boats at this age may show signs of wear, such as faded upholstery or aging electronics, requiring potential refurbishment or upgrades.
Fuel Efficiency: With twin engines, the 280 SUNDANCER may not be the most fuel-efficient option, particularly for long-distance cruising.
Limited Amenities: While the cabin is comfortable for short trips, some modern boats offer more amenities and conveniences, which may be lacking in this classic model.
Maintenance Requirements: Older boats often come with increased maintenance demands due to age. Owners should be prepared for routine checks and repairs to keep the vessel in top condition.
Collector Appeal: Although the 280 SUNDANCER has a dedicated following, it may not appeal to all buyers, particularly those seeking the latest tech and designs found in modern vessels. The 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is a well-loved classic, blending performance and comfort for those looking to enjoy time on the water. Its pros and cons should be weighed carefully to determine if it’s the right fit for your boating lifestyle.
Made For
The 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is perfect for a variety of boating enthusiasts. Ideal for families looking to explore the open water, this model seamlessly blends comfort and performance, making it suitable for day trips or weekend getaways. Its spacious layout is tailored for those who enjoy entertaining, with ample seating in the cockpit and a well-equipped galley for preparing meals aboard. Couples seeking romance on the water will appreciate the cozy cabin with sleeping accommodations, perfect for overnight excursions. Moreover, the boat’s reliable build appeals to seasoned boaters who demand quality and durability in their vessels. With an emphasis on a smooth ride and easy handling, the 280 SUNDANCER is also great for novice boaters looking to build their skills in a safe and manageable craft. In summary, the 1990 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is for anyone who values a combination of luxury, functionality, and performance, catering to families, couples, and experienced adventurers alike.
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Madison, WI
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