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2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Racine,WI, WI US

$54,000

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

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The Image of Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2003 - 02003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
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Price$54,000$55,000$49,900$59,000$59,900
LocationRacine,WIMarinetteBayfieldRacineBirchwood
Nominal Length28'30'31'39'37'
Draft3'----
Engine Make-YanmarYANMARYanmarYanmar
Total Engine Power-21 hp12 hp44 hp36 hp
Days on Market3757232378763
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Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States

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

Very Popular Sea Ray 280 Sundancer with Twin V-6 EFI Mercury Inboard Outboards, Full Camper Canvas Tan Tweed Package with Screens and Privacy Panels, Generator, Bottom Painted and on a Aluminum Tandem Axle Bunk Trailer with the Cherry Wood Interior Decor Package.

Also Included Custom Mooring and Trailering Cover purchased in 2015.  Turn Key with lines, fenders, safety equipment- THIS IS THE ONE-CALL TODAY.

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Racine,WI, WI

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

Customers often praise the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its sleek design and comfortable layout, making it an excellent choice for both day cruising and overnight trips

Many appreciate its spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, which includes amenities that enhance the boating experience. Users highlight the boat's reliable performance and smooth handling, noting that it provides a stable and enjoyable ride. Additionally, owners frequently mention the quality craftsmanship and durable materials used throughout the vessel. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is regarded as a versatile and stylish cruiser that delivers great value for boating enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular express cruiser known for its blend of style, comfort, and performance. Here are some of the pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with sleeping accommodations, a compact galley, and an enclosed head, making it suitable for weekend getaways.

Performance: Powered by reliable Mercruiser engines, it delivers solid performance and handling, ideal for coastal cruising and day trips.

Cockpit Layout: The cockpit is designed for socializing, with ample seating and a wet bar, providing a great space for entertaining guests.

Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for good build quality and attention to detail, and the 280 Sundancer is no exception, offering durability and a stylish finish.

Easy Handling: Its size and design make it manageable for a small crew or even single-handed operation.

Cons

Limited Headroom: While the cabin is spacious for its size, headroom can be somewhat limited, which might feel cramped for taller individuals.

Storage Space: Storage can be tight, especially for longer trips or when carrying a lot of gear.

Engine Access: Some owners find engine access somewhat restricted, which can make maintenance a bit challenging.

Fuel Capacity: The fuel tank size may limit range for extended cruising without frequent refueling stops.

Aging Systems: Being a 2003 model, some onboard systems and electronics may be outdated and could require upgrades or replacements.

Made For

The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and stylish cruiser. It is perfect for small families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy day trips or weekend getaways on the water. With its comfortable cabin and ample deck space, this boat suits those who appreciate a blend of performance, comfort, and convenience for coastal cruising, fishing, or entertaining. Whether you are a seasoned boater or new to boating, the 280 Sundancer offers an easy-to-handle, reliable vessel for creating memorable experiences 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 Sail Cruiser 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$ 45,900
Total Payment$82,067.50
Monthly payment
$341.95/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 Sail Cruiser 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$ 45,900
Total Payment$82,067.50
Monthly payment
$341.95/mo

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