2002 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Sold Boat in Oshkosh, WI US
Built in 2002
280 SUNDANCER
2 Engines (2x MERCRUISER)
28 feet
Other
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States
2002 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 2002 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
Customers praise the 2002 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER for its sleek design and spacious interior, making it ideal for both day cruising and overnight trips
Many highlight its comfortable seating and well-appointed cabin, which offers ample storage and modern amenities. The boat's performance is often noted for being smooth and reliable, with responsive handling that enhances the overall boating experience. Owners also appreciate the quality craftsmanship and durable construction, ensuring longevity and value. Overall, the 2002 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER receives positive feedback for combining style, comfort, and functionality on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2002 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is a popular mid-sized express cruiser known for its blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The 280 SUNDANCER offers a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a functional galley, and a private head, making it ideal for weekend cruising.
Performance: Equipped with reliable engines, this boat delivers good speed and handling, suitable for both coastal cruising and day trips.
Versatile Layout: The boat features a roomy cockpit with ample seating, a wet bar, and a swim platform, perfect for entertaining and water activities.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and attention to detail, and the 280 SUNDANCER reflects this with durable materials and a stylish finish.
Ease of Handling: Its size and design make it manageable for single-handed operation or small crews.
Cons
Limited Headroom: While comfortable, the cabin headroom may feel a bit restricted for taller individuals.
Storage Space: Storage can be somewhat limited, requiring careful organization for extended trips.
Fuel Efficiency: As with many express cruisers of this size and era, fuel consumption can be relatively high, especially at top speeds.
Maintenance Costs: Older models may require attentive maintenance, and some components could be costly to repair or replace.
Limited Upgrades: Compared to newer models, the 2002 version might lack some modern electronics and amenities found in more recent boats.
Made For
The 2002 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and stylish cruiser that combines comfort, performance, and convenience. Ideal for small families or couples, it offers ample space for day trips, weekend getaways, or coastal cruising. Its well-designed cabin and cockpit make it suitable for those who enjoy entertaining guests on the water or relaxing in a cozy, functional environment. Whether you're a seasoned boater or new to boating, the 280 Sundancer provides a great balance of ease of handling and onboard amenities.
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Oshkosh, WI
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