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

$44,900

Used
We will let you know when another 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is available in Marshfield, 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 Sea Ray Sundancer 280 powered by twin 4.3L MerCruiser EFI engines with (308 hours).  Very clean, well maintained Sundancer.  New camper canvas with glass/screens.  All vinyl and fabrics in nice condition. Large swim platform, transom door, tons of seating, cockpit wet bar.  Interior features a full galley, enclosed head, dinette to port, forward V-berth and roomy mid-cabin.  TV, stereo, VHF, radar, Heat/AC, no gen-set.  A double axle road trailer is included in the sale. 

Contact

Marshfield, 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 positive feedback from owners and enthusiasts alike, highlighting its blend of performance, comfort, and style

Customers typically appreciate: 1. Spacious Layout: Owners rave about the roomy cockpit and cabin, which provide ample seating and sleeping areas for families and friends. The convertible dinette and well-appointed galley make it ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. 2. Performance: The 280 Sundancer is noted for its solid performance on the water. With powerful twin engines, it delivers swift acceleration and handles well in various conditions, making it a favorite for both leisurely cruising and watersports. 3. Quality Craftsmanship: Many customers commend the build quality and attention to detail typical of Sea Ray boats. The materials used in both the interior and exterior are often described as durable and high-end, contributing to a luxurious feel. 4. Versatility: The ability to easily transition from a day boat to an overnight cruiser is frequently mentioned. Owners appreciate the ample storage for gear and the convenience of having a full head and galley onboard. 5. Ease of Maintenance: Several users mention that the boat is relatively easy to maintain, with accessible engine compartments and straightforward systems, which is an important factor for many boat owners. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is celebrated for providing an enjoyable boating experience, making it a popular choice among those looking for a blend of comfort and performance.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer: Pros and Cons

Pros

Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer features a well-designed interior with ample space for relaxing and entertaining, making it perfect for weekend getaways.

Comfortable Cockpit: The cockpit layout is user-friendly, with comfortable seating, a wet bar, and good sightlines, enhancing the overall onboard experience.

Versatile Performance: Equipped with twin MerCruiser engines, the 280 Sundancer delivers a smooth and stable ride, making it suitable for both leisurely cruising and thrilling outings.

Good Storage: This model comes with multiple storage compartments throughout, ensuring that you have enough space to stow away your gear and belongings.

Well-Equipped Galley: The galley is equipped with essential amenities such as a refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop, allowing for convenient meal preparation.

Strong Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for its solid construction and durable materials, which contribute to the overall longevity and reliability of the boat.

Cons

Limited Headroom: While the cabin offers good space, some areas may have limited headroom, making it less comfortable for taller individuals.

Fuel Consumption: With twin engines, the fuel consumption can be higher compared to similar single-engine models, which may be a consideration for long-distance cruising.

Older Technology: As a 2003 model, some onboard technology and amenities may feel dated compared to newer boats, which may offer more advanced features.

Maintenance Costs: Like any older boat, maintenance can become an issue, and owners should be prepared for potential repairs and upkeep needed over time.

Storage Capacity: While it does have good storage options, the overall capacity may not be sufficient for larger groups or long trips requiring more equipment.

Made For

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for boating enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style. Ideal for families or small groups, this versatile cruiser caters to weekend adventurers and those who love to entertain on the water. With its spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, the 280 Sundancer is perfect for day trips, overnight excursions, and leisurely sunset cruises. It appeals to both novice boaters and experienced mariners looking for a reliable vessel that offers ease of use and plenty of amenities. Whether you're a watersports enthusiast, a fishing aficionado, or someone who simply enjoys exploring beautiful coastlines, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer delivers an exceptional experience. Its thoughtful layout and reliable performance make it a fantastic choice for creating unforgettable memories 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 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$ 38,165
Total Payment$68,237.60
Monthly payment
$284.32/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$ 38,165
Total Payment$68,237.60
Monthly payment
$284.32/mo

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