2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Boat in Norwalk, CT 06854 US
Built in 2003
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x MerCruiser)
28 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
2003 Sea Ray Sundancer 280
Trades Accepted
Power:
Mercruiser Twin 4.3 (690 hour on one, second newly repowered)
Features:
Swim Platform
Spotlight
Air Conditioning & Heating
Contact Overlook Marine Group for More Information
Trades Accepted | Financing and Insurance Available
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 9/16/26 | Initial price | $28,500 |
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 boat enthusiasts and owners alike
Many customers appreciate its sleek design and sporty profile, which make it an eye-catching vessel on the water. The spacious cockpit area is a highlight, offering ample seating for socializing and entertaining. Boaters frequently praise the comfortable cabin layout, which includes a well-equipped galley, a cozy V-berth, and a neatly designed head compartment. This combination makes it an ideal choice for weekend getaways and overnight trips. Performance-wise, the 280 Sundancer is noted for its reliable handling and smooth ride, even in choppy waters. Owners often mention the ease of maneuverability and the power of its twin engines, which provide a thrilling experience while cruising. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is celebrated for its blend of style, comfort, and performance, making it a beloved choice among both new and seasoned boaters.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile Performance: The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is known for its balanced performance, offering both speed and stability on the water, making it suitable for leisure cruising and watersports.
Spacious Interior: The cabin features a well-thought-out layout with ample space for relaxing and entertaining. It includes comfortable seating, a fully equipped galley, and sleeping accommodations for four.
High-Quality Build: Sea Ray is renowned for its craftsmanship, and the 280 Sundancer is no exception. The boat is built with durable materials and finishes that ensure longevity and aesthetic appeal.
Excellent Handling: With its deep-V hull design, the 280 Sundancer handles choppy waters well, providing a smooth ride even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Generous Storage: The boat offers plenty of storage options, making it convenient to stow away gear and personal belongings for extended trips.
Stylish Design: The sleek exterior and modern lines give the 280 Sundancer a timeless look that remains appealing to boaters.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: The performance of the 280 Sundancer can come at the cost of fuel efficiency, which may be a consideration for those who plan to use the boat extensively.
Draft Limitations: With a draft of around 3 feet, the boat may not be suitable for extremely shallow waters, limiting its versatility in certain locations.
Maintenance Costs: While the build quality is high, maintaining a used boat can involve additional costs, especially as parts may need to be replaced over time.
Limited Salon Space: Although the interior is comfortable, some users may find the salon space a bit cramped, especially when entertaining larger groups.
Age Factors: As a 2003 model, potential buyers should consider the age of the boat and any wear and tear that may have occurred over the years, including the engine and upholstery condition.
Made For
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for boating enthusiasts who appreciate a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. Ideal for families and friends looking to enjoy weekends on the water, this sporty cruiser features spacious accommodations and practical amenities. Whether you're anchoring for a picnic, cruising along the coastline, or enjoying a sunset on the water, the 280 Sundancer caters to a wide range of activities. It's perfect for those who value both leisure and adventure, allowing you to host gatherings or simply escape for a peaceful day on the waves. With a well-thought-out cockpit layout and easy-to-navigate helm, this boat is also suitable for newer boaters seeking a user-friendly experience without compromising on style and capability. Its impressive handling and reliable performance make it a choice for anyone who enjoys the thrill of the open sea, all while providing a comfortable space to relax and recharge. In summary, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is for those who cherish the freedom of the water, whether you're an experienced sailor or a beginner eager to explore the nautical lifestyle.
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 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $28,500 | $27,500 | $29,500 | $24,500 | $19,500 | $38,000 |
| Location | Norwalk | Deep River | Old Saybrook | Westbrook | Norwalk | Centerbrook |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 24' | 29' | 27' | 24' | 28' |
| Draft | 3' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | MerCruiser | MerCruiser | Mercruiser | Mercruiser | MerCruiser | MerCruiser |
| Total Engine Power | - | 260 hp | 260 hp | 350 hp | 260 hp | 300 hp |
| Days on Market | 56 | 1645 | 54 | 377 | 299 | 2 |
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