2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in North East, MD US
Built in 2003
280 Sundancer
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28 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
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 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $89,900 | $89,900 | $89,900 | $87,999 | $87,000 | $85,000 |
| Location | North East | Stevensville | Annapolis | Pasadena | Shady Side | Chesapeake Beach |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 34' | 32' | 29' | 32' | 34' |
| Draft | 3' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | - | MerCruiser | MerCruiser | Volvo | Mercury | Mercruiser |
| Total Engine Power | - | 370 hp | - | 380 hp | 300 hp | 310 hp |
| Days on Market | 7669 | 52 | 1 | 223 | 345 | 28 |
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Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Maryland, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Maryland, United States
- Twin 220 HP FWC Mercruisers
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- Twin 220 HP FWC Mercruisers
- Only 47 Hours!!!
- Generator
- Reverse Cycle Heat/AC
- Camper Canvas
- Excellent Condition!!!
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
Customers praising the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer often highlight its blend of comfort, performance, and style
Many appreciate the spacious and well-designed cabin, which provides a cozy retreat for weekend getaways. The boat's handling is frequently described as smooth and reliable, making it enjoyable for both novice and experienced boaters. Users also commend the quality of the build and the attention to detail in the interior finishes. Overall, owners value the 280 Sundancer for its versatility as a family cruiser and its ability to deliver a fun and relaxing 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 key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer offers a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to four people, making it ideal for weekend getaways.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction, and this model features a sturdy fiberglass hull and quality finishes throughout.
Good Performance: Powered by reliable engines, the 280 Sundancer delivers smooth handling and respectable speed for its size.
Versatile Layout: The boat includes a functional galley, a private head (bathroom), and a convertible dinette area that maximizes usable space.
Ample Storage: Multiple storage compartments make it easy to stow gear and supplies for extended trips.
Cockpit Comfort: The cockpit area is designed for socializing, with plenty of seating and options for shade.
Cons
Limited Headroom: While the cabin is spacious for a 28-foot boat, headroom can be somewhat limited for taller individuals.
Engine Access: Some owners find engine access a bit tight, which can make maintenance more challenging.
Aging Systems: Being a 2003 model, some onboard systems like electronics, plumbing, or upholstery may require updates or repairs depending on maintenance history.
Fuel Efficiency: The boat’s performance-oriented engines can lead to moderate fuel consumption compared to more economy-focused cruisers.
Storage Space: Although there is ample storage, the size of lockers and compartments may feel limited when carrying larger or bulkier gear.
Made For
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and comfortable cruiser. It’s ideal for small families or couples who enjoy day trips, weekend getaways, or coastal cruising. With its spacious cabin, convenient amenities, and reliable performance, this boat suits those looking for a blend of relaxation, entertaining, and easy handling on the water. Whether you're a first-time boat owner or an experienced captain, the 280 Sundancer offers a great balance of style, comfort, and functionality.
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North East, MD
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