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2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Atlantic City, NJ US
Built in 2003
280 Sundancer
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28 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in New Jersey, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in New Jersey, United States
Winter storage and winterization included!
Extreme Clean Is What You Will See On This 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer. This is powered by a single Merc 496 with 375 Horsepower.
Very Clean Inside And Out & The 280 Is Sea Rays Best Selling Express Cruiser For A Reason Its Layout Can't Be Beat And This One Has Always Been Kept Super Clean.
New Manifolds 2017
Winter storage and winterization included!
Extreme Clean Is What You Will See On This 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer. This is powered by a single Merc 496 with 375 Horsepower.
Very Clean Inside And Out & The 280 Is Sea Rays Best Selling Express Cruiser For A Reason Its Layout Can't Be Beat And This One Has Always Been Kept Super Clean.
New Manifolds 2017
2003 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 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer has garnered positive feedback from customers who appreciate its blend of style, comfort, and performance
Many boat owners highlight the spacious interior, which features a well-appointed cabin with ample seating, a fully-equipped galley, and a comfortable V-berth, making it ideal for weekend getaways. Users often commend the boat's impressive handling and stability on the water, with a responsive engine performance that makes cruising enjoyable. The integrated swim platform and easy access to water activities are also mentioned as key selling points, enhancing the overall experience of leisure and recreation. The 280 Sundancer's sleek design and iconic Sea Ray styling receive praise for their aesthetic appeal, while the quality construction and durable materials contribute to the boat’s longevity. Owners appreciate the thoughtful layout and storage options, allowing for efficient use of space. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is recognized as a reliable and versatile cruiser, perfect for both day trips and extended excursions on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular choice for boaters seeking a combination of performance, comfort, and style. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Versatile Design: The Sundancer is designed for both day cruising and overnight stays, offering a perfect balance for a variety of boating activities.
Spacious Interior: With a well-laid-out cabin, the 280 Sundancer features a comfortable V-berth, a galley, and a head compartment, providing ample space for relaxation and entertainment.
Handling and Performance: The boat’s dual-engine setup delivers excellent handling and performance on the water, making it responsive and fun to drive.
Quality Construction: Sea Ray is known for its attention to detail and high-quality materials, ensuring the 280 Sundancer is built to last.
Ample Storage: The boat includes plenty of storage options for gear and personal belongings, making it practical for extended trips.
Appealing Aesthetics: The sleek design and elegant finishes contribute to the boat's overall aesthetic appeal, making it visually attractive on the water.
Amenities: Equipped with features like a wet bar, spacious cockpit, and swim platform, it enhances the overall boating experience.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: The dual-engine setup, while providing great performance, can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to single-engine alternatives.
Maintenance Costs: As with any larger vessel, maintenance and repair costs can add up, especially with twin engines and additional amenities.
Limited Speed: While the 280 Sundancer has good handling, it may not match the top speeds of sportier models, focusing instead on comfort and cruising.
Cabin Size: While spacious for a 28-foot boat, some users might find the cabin cozy rather than overly spacious, especially when accommodating additional guests.
Age-Related Issues: Being a 2003 model, buyers should consider potential age-related maintenance issues and ensure the vessel has been well-cared for.
Market Availability: Depending on your location, finding specific models or desired configurations may take some time, as the availability of used units can be limited.
Made For
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is an ideal choice for boating enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of performance, style, and comfort. It's designed for families and friends looking to create lasting memories on the water, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a leisurely day cruising along the coastline. This versatile vessel caters to a wide range of boaters, from first-time owners to seasoned mariners. Its user-friendly layout and efficient handling make it accessible for novice drivers, while experienced boaters will appreciate the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. With spacious interiors and smartly designed outdoor spaces, the 280 Sundancer is perfect for entertaining guests, enjoying water sports, or simply relaxing in the sun. The ample seating, a well-equipped galley, and comfortable sleeping accommodations make it a true home on the water. Whether you're planning day trips to your favorite spots or longer excursions, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer promises a pleasurable and stylish experience on the water.
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Atlantic City, NJ
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