2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

$52,500

Used

Boat in Roseville, CA 95661 US

builtBuilt in 2001
Year the boat was built
model

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x Mercruiser)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
28ft
Length at Waterline
28ft
Beam
9.42ft
Max Draft
3.25ft
Dry Weight
8000lb
Cabins
1
Max Passengers
10
Fresh Water Tanks
28gal
Fuel Tanks
100gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
deep-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
4.3 EFI
Total Power
210hp
Engine Type
Inboard/Outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2001
Drive Type
stern
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
4.3 EFI
Total Power
210hp
Engine Type
Inboard/Outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2001
Drive Type
stern
Anchor
Anchor Locker
Anchor Rode
Bimini
Bow Rail
Cockpit Seating
Cockpit Table
Steering Wheel
Swim Platform
Transom Closed
Transom Walk Through
Windshield Walk Through
Cabin Lighting
Cabinets
Dinette
Head
Heat
Microwave
Mirror
Port Holes
Pressurized Water System
Refrigerator
Salon
Shower
Sink Galley
Stateroom Aft
Stateroom Forward
110v Ac Outlets
12 V Dc Outlets
Ac Electric Panel
Battery Switch
Circuit Breaker Panel
Cockpit Accent Lighting
Courtesy Lights
Fuel Gauge
Gfi Outlets
Stereo
Bilge Blower
Bilge Pump
Holding Tanks
Power Trim & Tilt
Throttle/shift: Mech
Water Tanks
Navigation Lights
Bottom Paint Antifouling
Tagline
Beautiful cruiser that sleeps 6, large swim platform, and full canvas top! Freshwater boat! Trailer, Generator, AC and more!!
Condition detail
Seller reports engines maintained and serviced; records can be provided during inspection. Engine hours: Starboard 482; port: 481 Newer anti-fouling bottom paint. Seller reports vacu-flush toilet. Exterior canvas in good integrity. Deck seat upholstery shows no fading or discoloration and is in good shape
Selling reason
upgraded
Trailer
Make
Instigator
Year
2006
Type
galvenized
Axle Count
3
Condition
good
Generators
Generator 1
Detail
Kohler 5.0kW hrs 467
Storage
Status
kept n storage facility

Price History

DateEventPrice
8/9/25Price decreased$52,500(-8.2%)
6/16/25Initial price$57,213

Contact Pop Yachts

5717 Bessie Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34233

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 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

Customers consistently praise the 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its spacious and comfortable cabin, making it ideal for weekend getaways or extended cruising

Many highlight the boat’s solid build quality and reliable performance on the water, appreciating its smooth handling and stability. The well-designed cockpit and ample seating are frequently noted as perfect for entertaining guests. Additionally, owners often commend the vessel’s well-equipped galley and functional head, which add to the overall convenience and comfort. Some reviews mention minor maintenance typical for a boat of its age but emphasize that with proper care, the 280 Sundancer remains a dependable and enjoyable cruiser.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular express cruiser known for its blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer offers a roomy interior with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a well-equipped galley, and a private head, making it ideal for weekend getaways.

Performance: Powered by reliable engines, it delivers smooth handling and good cruising speed suitable for coastal cruising and day trips.

Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for solid construction, and the 280 Sundancer features quality materials and finishes that enhance durability and aesthetics.

Cockpit Layout: The cockpit is well-designed with ample seating and storage, perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing on the water.

Versatility: The boat is suitable for a variety of water activities, including fishing, cruising, and watersports.

Cons

Maintenance Costs: As a boat from 2001, it may require ongoing maintenance and possible upgrades to systems and electronics, which can add to ownership costs.

Engine Age: Depending on usage and upkeep, the original engines might need significant servicing or replacement to maintain optimal performance.

Limited Headroom: While spacious, the cabin headroom may feel a bit confined for taller individuals.

Fuel Consumption: Like many express cruisers of its size, fuel efficiency may not be optimal, especially at higher speeds.

Storage Space: While adequate for short trips, extended cruising might require careful planning due to limited storage capacity.

Made For

The 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is an ideal boat for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and stylish vessel that combines comfort, performance, and functionality. It is perfect for small families, couples, or groups of friends looking to enjoy day cruising, weekend getaways, or coastal adventures. With its spacious cockpit, comfortable cabin accommodations, and reliable engine options, this boat caters to those who appreciate both leisure and sporty boating experiences. Whether you're interested in relaxing on the water, entertaining guests, or exploring new destinations, the 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer offers a great balance of luxury and practicality.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Express Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Sea Ray cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$332.45/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 44,625
Total Payment$79,787.84

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2001 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Express Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Sea Ray cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$332.45/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 44,625
Total Payment$79,787.84

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Address

5717 Bessie Drive
Sarasota, FL 34233

Boat Location

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