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2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Branford, CT US

$70,000

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

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

--

Engine type and count
length

31.1 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

--

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

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2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Price$70,000$70,000$69,900$67,000$75,000$62,000
LocationBranfordGrotonNorwalkWestbrookCos CobPound Ridge
Nominal Length31'41'28'32'37'29'
Draft3'-----
Engine Make-CumminsVolvo PentaMerCruiserMerCruiserMercury
Total Engine Power-450 hp-350 hp375 hp320 hp
Days on Market1569572641015830
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Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Connecticut, United States

Nominal Length
31.08ft
Length Overall
31.08ft
Beam
9ft
Max Draft
3ft
Holding Tanks
28gal
Hull Material
fiberglass

This 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer model is a versatile pocket cruiser with top shelf amenities, a well appointed interior with comforable accomodations for six. The cockpit is equipped with a wet bar, port side louge seating a transom door for entry and a stern bench seat that folds out of the way when not needed and the rear facing bench seat converts to a sun lounge. The companion way leads leads into a spacious salon with cherry - trimmed cabinets, U shaped dinette to port, full-service galley opposite, convdtible V-berth forward (with removable table), a compact head / shower to starboard. The boat is powered by a pair of Mercruiser 5.0 L MPI (260 HP) engines with Bravo III drives with stainless steel props a new Simrad NSS9 EV035 Radar, chart plotter and arch mount. Comes with a full camper encloser and a Venture tri axle trailer was purchased in 2019 to store and transport the boat for the winter months.


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Branford, CT

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

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is highly regarded among boat enthusiasts for its blend of performance, comfort, and style

Customers praise its spacious and well-designed cabin, which features a fully-equipped galley, a cozy dinette, and an inviting mid-berth that makes it perfect for weekend getaways. The exterior design is admired for its sleek lines, sporty profile, and impressive cockpit layout, making entertaining guests a pleasure. Performance-wise, boaters appreciate the reliable power of the twin engines, providing smooth cruising and easy maneuverability. Many users highlight its stability in various water conditions, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced captains. Additionally, owners often commend the high-quality materials and craftsmanship that Sea Ray is known for, ensuring longevity and durability. The ample storage space and thoughtfully designed features contribute to an overall enjoyable boating experience, solidifying the 280 Sundancer's reputation as a favorite among mid-sized cruisers. Overall, customers feel that the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer delivers exceptional value for its capabilities and amenities.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a well-regarded entry-level express cruiser that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some of the pros and cons associated with this model:

Pros

Design & Aesthetics: The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boasts a sleek and stylish exterior, complemented by a well-appointed interior. The attention to detail is evident in both its craftsmanship and design.

Spacious Cockpit: The cockpit area is roomy and designed for entertaining, featuring ample seating, a wet bar, and easy access to the swim platform, making it ideal for social gatherings.

Comfortable Cabin: Inside, the 280 Sundancer offers a comfortable cabin with a well-equipped galley, bathroom, and sleeping accommodations for up to four adults. The layout optimizes space for lounging and relaxing.

Strong Performance: Powered by twin MerCruiser engines, this boat provides solid performance on the water, allowing for smooth cruising and responsive handling.

Versatility: The boat is ideal for day cruising, overnight trips, and weekend escapes, making it a versatile choice for various boating activities.

Storage Options: Ample storage compartments are available throughout the boat, ensuring that you have plenty of space to stow away gear and supplies.

Cons

Size Limitations: While the 280 Sundancer is spacious for its class, it may be cramped for larger groups or long trips compared to larger vessels.

Fuel Efficiency: With twin engines, the boat may consume more fuel than single-engine counterparts, which could be a consideration for longer outings.

Maintenance Costs: As with any boat, maintenance can be costly. This model features multiple systems that require regular upkeep to ensure optimal performance.

Limited Sleeping Capacity: The cabin accommodates up to four people, which may not be sufficient for larger families or groups wishing to take extended trips.

Age-Related Concerns: Being a 2004 model, you may need to pay close attention to the condition of the engines and other systems, as age can lead to wear and tear.

Made For

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for those who appreciate a balanced combination of style, comfort, and performance on the water. It caters to families and couples seeking a weekend getaway or day trips, offering ample space for relaxation and socializing. With its spacious cockpit and plush seating, the Sundancer is ideal for entertaining friends and family while enjoying sunny afternoons on the water. The well-designed cabin provides comfortable sleeping accommodations for overnight excursions, making it well-suited for those who enjoy longer adventures. Boaters who value ease of handling will find the 280 Sundancer approachable, whether you're a seasoned captain or relatively new to boating. The vessel’s powerful twin engines ensure a dynamic and responsive driving experience, making it a great choice for those who appreciate both thrill and relaxation. In sum, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for individuals and families who desire a versatile and stylish boat, perfect for creating unforgettable memories on the water.

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 Express 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$ 59,500
Total Payment$106,383.79
Monthly payment
$443.27/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 Express 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$ 59,500
Total Payment$106,383.79
Monthly payment
$443.27/mo

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