2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Punta Gorda, FL US
Built in 2003
280 Sundancer
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28 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer For Sale in Florida, United States
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Florida, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Florida, United States
Sea Ray Express combines leading edge styling with quality amenities and sporty performance. Interior with cherry cabinetry, stylish decor sleeps four adults in comfort.
Take one look and you will want to be her proud new owner
BRAND NEW LISTING - FULL SPECS AVAILABLE SOON
Sea Ray Express combines leading edge styling with quality amenities and sporty performance. Interior with cherry cabinetry, stylish decor sleeps four adults in comfort.
Take one look and you will want to be her proud new owner
BRAND NEW LISTING - FULL SPECS AVAILABLE SOON
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 boaters, highlighting its blend of style, performance, and comfort
Customers often praise its spacious cabin, which features a well-appointed galley and inviting dining area, making it ideal for weekend getaways and entertaining guests. Many appreciate the boat's ease of handling and maneuverability, thanks to its dependable twin-engine setup that provides a smooth ride across various water conditions. The design effectively maximizes space, with an open cockpit that allows for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living. Users frequently mention the quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail that Sea Ray is known for, reinforcing the boat's reputation for durability and reliability. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is celebrated for its thoughtful design and enjoyable boating experience, making it a favorable choice among enthusiasts looking for a versatile cruiser.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a well-regarded recreational boat known for its performance and comfort. Below are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The cabin features a roomy layout that comfortably sleeps four, with a well-appointed galley and a separate head compartment.
Smooth Performance: Equipped with twin MerCruiser engines, the 280 Sundancer offers solid performance and handling, making it suitable for both cruising and water sports.
Versatile Cockpit: The cockpit area is designed for entertaining, with ample seating and an optional wet bar, making it perfect for social gatherings on the water.
Stylish Design: The sleek lines and sporty silhouette of the 280 Sundancer add to its aesthetic appeal, making it a stylish choice for boaters.
Quality Construction: Sea Ray is known for its quality build, and the 280 Sundancer features durable materials and a reliable hull design.
Cons
Limited Fuel Capacity: The fuel tank size may not be sufficient for extended cruising, potentially leading to frequent refueling for longer trips.
Older Electronics: As a 2003 model, some boats may have outdated navigation and entertainment systems that could require upgrades to meet modern standards.
Maintenance Costs: Like many cruisers, the 280 Sundancer may incur higher maintenance costs due to its twin-engine setup and additional systems.
Draft Depth: With a deeper draft, it may not be as suitable for shallow water exploration compared to other boats in its class.
Seating Arrangement: While ample, some may find the seating configuration in the cockpit less flexible for larger groups compared to newer designs.
Made For
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is ideal for water enthusiasts who appreciate both cruising and entertaining. Perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends, this versatile vessel offers a spacious layout and comfortable amenities, making it suitable for day trips or weekend getaways. This well-designed boat caters to those who value quality craftsmanship and a stylish appearance. With its elegant lines and robust performance, the Sundancer appeals to both novice boaters and experienced mariners looking for a reliable cruiser. The inclusion of a well-equipped galley, private cabin, and ample seating ensures that it can accommodate social gatherings or tranquil retreats on the water with ease. Whether you're taking a leisurely cruise, enjoying water sports, or hosting a sunset dinner, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is crafted for those who seek adventure and relaxation on the open waters.
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Punta Gorda, FL
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