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2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Clearwater, FL US

$38,000

Used
We will let you know when another 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is available in Clearwater, FL
builtBuilt in 2003
Year the boat was built
model

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

--

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

--

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

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The Image of Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2003 - 02003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Price$38,000$38,000$38,900$37,000$36,000$35,000
LocationClearwaterMarco IslandSpring HillMiamiPunta GordaFort Myers
Nominal Length28'32'30'29'28'29'
Draft3'-----
Engine Make-Volvo PentaMercruiserMercruiserMercuryMercruiser
Total Engine Power-310 hp-240 hp349 hp260 hp
Days on Market38943683629436
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Other 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer For Sale in Florida, United States

Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
28ft
Beam
9ft
Max Draft
3ft
Dry Weight
8500lb
Fresh Water Tanks
28gal
Fuel Tanks
100gal
Holding Tanks
28gal
Hull Material
fiberglass

This 2003 Sea Ray Sundancer is gently used and dry kept her whole lifetime. This is a great boat for day trips or a weekend of cruising Down to the Florida Keys. In great Condition, owners are moving to California so she is Priced to sell, it is a must see!  

  • Twin 4.3 Mercruisers with less than 700 hours
  • Luhrs Generator
  • Refrigerator
  • Microwave
  • Stove top
  • Freshwater sink
  • Sleeps 4 with partitions for Berthing areas
  • Enclosed head/shower
  • Air conditioning/ heater
  • Deck lighting

Contact

Clearwater, FL

Sea Ray 280 Sundancer: BoatTEST Review

Reviewed by Jeff Hammond

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.

Rating: 4.2 out of 5

Overview from around the web 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

Customers consistently praise the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its solid build quality and stylish design, making it a favorite among boating enthusiasts

Many highlight its spacious and comfortable cockpit, ideal for entertaining family and friends. The cabin is often noted for its well-appointed interior, providing a cozy and functional space for overnight stays. Owners appreciate the boat’s reliable performance and smooth handling, which make it enjoyable for both cruising and watersports. Additionally, the vessel’s ample storage and practical layout receive positive mentions, contributing to an overall satisfying boating experience.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular express cruiser known for its blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:

Pros

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

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

Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and attention to detail, and the 280 Sundancer features high-quality materials and finishes.

Versatile Layout: The cockpit area is designed for entertaining, with ample seating and a wet bar, perfect for socializing on the water.

Good Storage: Plenty of storage compartments throughout the boat help keep gear organized and the living space uncluttered.

Cons

Limited Headroom: While spacious for a 28-foot cruiser, the cabin headroom may feel a bit low for taller individuals.

Fuel Efficiency: Like many express cruisers with powerful engines, fuel consumption can be relatively high, especially at top speeds.

Aging Electronics: Depending on previous upgrades, the 2003 model’s electronics and navigation equipment might be outdated and require modernization.

Maintenance Costs: As a boat approaching two decades old, maintenance and upkeep can be more demanding compared to newer models.

Limited Outdoor Shade: The cockpit area might lack extensive covered space, which can be a drawback in very sunny or rainy conditions without added canvas or bimini options.

Made For

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and stylish cruiser that combines comfort, performance, and ease of handling. Ideal for small families, couples, or friends who enjoy day trips on the water, weekend getaways, or coastal cruising, this boat offers a spacious cockpit, a cozy cabin with sleeping accommodations, and modern amenities. Whether you're interested in relaxing afternoons anchored in a cove or exploring nearby waterways, the 280 Sundancer provides an excellent balance of functionality and luxury for those looking to make the most of their time on the water.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2003 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 32,300
Total Payment$57,751.20
Monthly payment
$240.63/mo

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2003 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 32,300
Total Payment$57,751.20
Monthly payment
$240.63/mo

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Address

Clearwater, FL

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