2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Tarpon Springs, FL US
Built in 2003
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x Mercruiser)
31.1 feet
Gas
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
2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, Powered by Fuel Efficient Mercruiser 220HP V-6's with Alpha Drives and Stainless Props. Most Hours are in Fresh Water and it shows. Garmin GPS, Icom VHF, All services are up to date. Full Camper Canvas with New Forward Isenglass and full cockpit cover. This was a very popular model for Sea Ray, very stable on the water and very roomy in the cabin with it's 31'1" overall length and 9'5" Beam.
2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, Powered by Fuel Efficient Mercruiser 220HP V-6's with Alpha Drives and Stainless Props. Most Hours are in Fresh Water and it shows. Garmin GPS, Icom VHF, All services are up to date. Full Camper Canvas with New Forward Isenglass and full cockpit cover. This was a very popular model for Sea Ray, very stable on the water and very roomy in the cabin with it's 31'1" overall length and 9'5" Beam.
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 garners positive feedback from owners and enthusiasts alike, often celebrated for its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility
Customers appreciate its spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, which makes it ideal for day cruising and weekend getaways. Many users highlight the boat's powerful twin engine setup, delivering impressive speed and handling on the water. The easy maneuverability particularly stands out for both seasoned and novice boaters. The Sundancer's dependable construction and sleek design often receive accolades, as do its ample storage options, which are essential for extended outings. The cabin features, such as the galley with a refrigerator and microwave, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and a well-designed head, are frequently praised for enhancing the overall boating experience. Owners often mention the inviting lounge area on the deck, which encourages socializing and relaxation, making it a great choice for entertaining guests. Overall, the 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is regarded as a reliable and stylish vessel, perfect for creating lasting memories on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Stylish Design: The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer features a sleek, modern look with a sporty profile that appeals to both seasoned boaters and newcomers alike.
Spacious Cockpit: The cockpit area is designed for entertaining, offering ample seating, a wet bar, and the option for a grill, making it perfect for social gatherings on the water.
Comfortable Cabin: Below deck, the 280 Sundancer boasts a well-appointed cabin with a comfortable V-berth, a dinette that converts to a sleeping area, a full galley with a fridge, and a head with a shower, providing all the comforts of home.
Performance: Powered by twin engines, the 280 Sundancer offers a smooth and responsive ride with impressive handling, making it suitable for a variety of water conditions.
Versatile Use: This model is ideal for day cruising, weekend getaways, and even longer voyages, allowing for flexibility in how you choose to enjoy your time on the water.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is renowned for quality construction and attention to detail, ensuring that the 280 Sundancer is both durable and reliable.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: The twin-engine setup, while enhancing performance, can lead to higher fuel consumption, especially during extended outings.
Storage Space: While the cabin is comfortable, storage can be somewhat limited, requiring careful organization, particularly for longer trips.
Maintenance Costs: Like any boat, the cost of maintenance and repairs can be significant, particularly with twin engines and complex systems.
Limited Offshore Capability: While the 280 Sundancer is great for inshore waters and light offshore outings, it may not be the best choice for serious offshore cruising due to its size and design.
Aging Components: As a 2003 model, individual boats may have aging systems and components that could require upgrades or replacements, depending on how well they’ve been maintained.
Made For
The 2003 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for boating enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and style. Ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends, this mid-sized express cruiser caters to those who enjoy weekend getaways and day trips on the water. With its spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, the 280 Sundancer provides ample seating and entertainment options, making it perfect for social gatherings. Its easy handling and dependable performance appeal to both seasoned mariners and newcomers alike, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. For those who appreciate quality craftsmanship, the 2003 model features Sea Ray's signature attention to detail and durable construction. Whether you're fishing, cruising, or simply relaxing by the water, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is an excellent choice for those looking to create memorable experiences on the water.
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Tarpon Springs, FL
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