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2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Falmouth, MA US

$31,900

Used
We will let you know when another 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is available in Falmouth, MA
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
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

2003 28' Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, powered by twin Mercruiser 5.0L MPI Bravo III. Full Camper Canvas, Windlass, Aft Cabin, Enclosed head, Hotwater, Shower, Microwave, Corian Counters, 12v/110 Fridge, Cooktop. Includes Garmin 740 GPS Plotter. She shows very well. Priced to sell quickly. Motivated Seller!!!

Contact

Falmouth, MA

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

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer has garnered a lot of positive feedback from boaters who appreciate its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility

Customers often highlight the following features in their reviews: 1. Spacious Cabin: Many users praise the roomy cabin layout, which comfortably accommodates family and friends. The sleek design offers a galley with a fridge, microwave, and stove, making it perfect for overnight trips. 2. Excellent Performance: Boaters often mention the powerful twin engines that provide a smooth ride and agility, whether cruising on open waters or navigating through tight spaces. 3. Stylish Design: The Sundancer's classic lines and stylish finish are frequently noted, with many customers appreciating the attention to detail in the interior and exterior designs. 4. Versatile Cockpit Space: The cockpit layout offers plenty of seating and entertainment options, making it ideal for social gatherings or relaxing in the sun. The easy-to-navigate controls and well-placed storage compartments enhance the overall boating experience. 5. Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements: Reviewers often mention the cozy v-berth and aft cabin, which provide comfortable sleeping options for overnight adventures, making short trips enjoyable. 6. Quality Build: Many customers commend the overall construction and durability of the Sundancer, noting that it stands up well to the rigors of boating life. 7. Good Balance of Size and Maneuverability: Several owners appreciate the boat's manageable size, which makes it easy to dock and handle while still providing ample space for activities. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer has established itself as a favorite among boaters seeking a fun, reliable, and stylish vessel for both day trips and weekend getaways.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer: Pros and Cons

Pros

Versatile Design: The 280 Sundancer features a sleek and stylish design that makes it suitable for both day cruising and overnight trips. Its layout maximizes space and comfort for passengers.

Spacious Cabin: With a well-designed interior, the cabin offers ample room with a comfortable V-berth, a mid-cabin area that can serve as extra sleeping space, and a functional galley complete with a refrigerator, stove, and sink.

Performance: The boat is equipped with powerful twin engines, providing excellent performance and stability on the water, making it fun to handle in various conditions.

Amenities: The Sundancer comes equipped with various amenities including a head (bathroom) with a shower and a well-designed cockpit featuring seating and a wet bar, ideal for entertaining guests.

Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for its sturdy construction and quality craftsmanship, giving buyers confidence in long-lasting performance and reliability.

Wide Beam: The generous beam provides extra stability and enhances the onboard experience, offering more space for movement around the deck.

Cons

Fuel Consumption: The power of twin engines can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to smaller or single-engine alternatives, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious boaters.

Maintenance Costs: As with many boats, maintenance costs can add up, especially with twin engines and additional features that require regular servicing.

Limited Storage: While the cabin has good space for living, some users report that storage for gear and equipment may be limited, which could be a concern for extended trips.

Draft and Trailering: The draft may limit access to shallow areas, and while the boat is trailerable, its size may require a more powerful tow vehicle and can be cumbersome to handle on land.

Age Factors: As a 2003 model, prospective buyers should consider that systems and materials may be aging and may require updates or replacements.

Market Availability: Finding the specific model you want in good condition can be challenging, as availability may vary in the used boat market. The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer offers an exciting combination of comfort, performance, and style, making it an appealing choice for boaters who appreciate quality and versatility. However, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons to ensure it aligns with their boating needs and preferences.

Made For

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for boaters seeking a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and versatility on the water. Ideal for families and friends who enjoy weekend getaways or extended day trips, this model accommodates up to six passengers comfortably. Its spacious cockpit and inviting cabin make it perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing in style. The boat’s sleek profile appeals to those who appreciate a classic look combined with modern features. It’s particularly suited for enthusiasts who value a smooth ride, thanks to its potent engines and reliable hull design. Whether you're an experienced boater or a newcomer, the 280 Sundancer's user-friendly controls and thoughtful layout will enhance your time on the water. Enjoy exploring coastal waters, anchoring at secluded spots, or visiting popular waterfront destinations with confidence in this well-rounded vessel.

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 Other 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$ 27,115
Total Payment$48,480.61
Monthly payment
$202.00/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 Other 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$ 27,115
Total Payment$48,480.61
Monthly payment
$202.00/mo

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Falmouth, MA

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