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2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Bradenton, FL 34208 US

$31,977

Used
We will let you know when another 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is available in Bradenton, FL
builtBuilt in 2004
Year the boat was built
model

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (--)

Engine type and count
length

31 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Other

Hull material

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2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
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Price$31,977$32,000$30,000$29,999$29,991$29,900
LocationBradentonSanfordLongboat KeySebastianMiamiApollo Beach
Nominal Length31'29'26'26'28'37'
Engine Make-MerCruiserMerCruiser 350 MagnumMercuryVolvo PentaWesterbeke
Total Engine Power-300 hp300 hp-280 hp40 hp
Days on Market30932972555113
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Other 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer For Sale in Florida, United States

Nominal Length
31ft
Hull Material
other
Engine 1
Engine Hours
200
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2004

Price History

DateEventPrice
11/7/25Initial price$31,977

Contact Boater's World Marine Centers Lake Placid

730 US Highway 27 N, Lake Placid, FL, 33852

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 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

Customers consistently praise the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its sleek design and comfortable layout, making it an ideal choice for weekend cruising and entertaining

Many highlight the spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, noting the ample seating and quality finishes that create a welcoming atmosphere. Users often commend the boat’s reliable performance and smooth handling, appreciating its powerful twin engines and responsive controls. Additionally, owners value the vessel’s versatility, mentioning its suitability for both day trips and overnight stays. Overall, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is celebrated for combining style, comfort, and dependable performance on the water.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular express cruiser known for its blend of comfort, style, and performance. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Spacious Layout: The 280 Sundancer offers a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to four people, a fully equipped galley, and a private head, making it ideal for weekend cruising.

Performance: Powered by reliable engines, this model delivers smooth handling and a respectable cruising speed, ensuring an enjoyable experience on the water.

Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and quality materials, and the 280 Sundancer reflects this with durable fiberglass hull and quality finishes.

Cockpit and Deck Space: The cockpit area is spacious with ample seating, a wet bar, and plenty of storage, perfect for entertaining guests.

Ease of Handling: The boat’s size and design make it manageable for both experienced boaters and those newer to cruising.

Cons

Limited Headroom: While comfortable, the cabin headroom may feel a bit restricted for taller individuals.

Aging Electronics: Being a 2004 model, the original onboard electronics and navigation systems may be outdated and could require upgrading.

Engine Maintenance: As with any older boat, engine upkeep can be a concern; ensuring proper maintenance history is important.

Fuel Efficiency: The 280 Sundancer is not the most fuel-efficient cruiser in its class, which could be a consideration for longer trips.

Storage Space: While adequate for short trips, storage might be limited for extended voyages or larger groups.

Made For

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and stylish vessel for day cruising and weekend getaways. Ideal for small families, couples, or friends who enjoy spending time on the water, it offers comfortable accommodations and practical features that make it suitable for both leisurely outings and overnight stays. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced boater, this model provides a great balance of performance, comfort, and ease of handling.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2004 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 Power 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$ 27,180
Total Payment$48,596.83
Monthly payment
$202.49/mo

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2004 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 Power 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$ 27,180
Total Payment$48,596.83
Monthly payment
$202.49/mo

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730 US Highway 27 N
Lake Placid, FL 33852

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