2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Chicago, IL 60640 US
Built in 2004
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x MerCruiser)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
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 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $55,900 | $55,000 | $54,900 | $54,800 | $57,900 | $59,900 |
| Location | Chicago | Chicago | Chicago | Chicago | Chicago | Chicago |
| Nominal Length | 28' | - | 22' | 22' | 31' | 35' |
| Draft | 3' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | MerCruiser | - | Motenergy | Motenergy | Volvo Penta | MerCruiser |
| Total Engine Power | 220 hp | - | 4 hp | 4 hp | 220 hp | 260 hp |
| Days on Market | 542 | 0 | 131 | 129 | 1 | 20 |
| Get in touch |
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Illinois, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Illinois, United States
2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer - Freshwater, Excellent Condition!
Looking for a well-maintained, freshwater cruiser? Then this 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is the boat for you! New to the Chicago market this well cared for and well-maintained Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is in excellent condition and ready for your next adventure! With sleek styling, a spacious cabin, and reliable performance, this boat is perfect for weekend getaways or day cruising.
Key Features:
✅ Freshwater boat - No saltwater exposure!
✅ Twin MerCruiser 4.3L MPI engines with low hours
✅ Spacious cabin with sleeping for 4+
✅ Full galley with refrigerator, stove, and microwave
✅ Enclosed head with shower
✅ Large cockpit with plenty of seating and extended swim platform
✅ Full canvas enclosure and cockpit cover included
This Sea Ray 280 Sundancer has been well cared for and is turn-key ready. Don't miss the chance to own a top-quality cruiser that's been exclusively used in freshwater!
MORE PHOTOS TO COME!
A huge sales success, those looking for a versatile pocket cruiser will find much to like in the 280 Sundancer. Sea Ray hit all the right buttons with the 280—terrific styling, top-shelf amenities, and a well-appointed interior with comfortable accommodations for six. Beginning with her spacious single-level cockpit with wet bar, portside lounger, and transom door, the stern bench seat folds
out of the way when not needed and the rear-facing bench seat converts to a sun lounge. A centerline companionway leads to the 280’s cherry-trimmed interior with U-shaped dinette to port, full-service galley opposite, convertible V-berth forward (with removable table), and a compact head/shower to starboard. Privacy curtains separate both sleeping areas from the salon. An extended
swim platform was standard and a convenient storage locker is built into the transom. Molded steps in the sliding companionway door provide quick bow access via the walk-thru windshield. On the downside, the mid-cabin berth is a tight fit for adults and the engine compartment hatch is heavy. Built on a solid fiberglass hull, twin 220hp MerCruiser sterndrives, the 280 Sundancer will cruise
at 24–26 knots (about 40 knots top).
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
2004 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 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is often praised for its blend of comfort, performance, and versatility
Here’s what customers typically appreciate about this model: 1. Spacious Interior: Many owners highlight the roomy cabin, which includes a well-equipped galley and comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to four people. The layout is often described as ideal for weekend getaways. 2. Cruising Performance: Customers frequently note the 280 Sundancer's powerful engine options that offer a smooth and responsive ride. The boat’s handling, even in choppy waters, tends to receive positive remarks. 3. Cockpit Comfort: The cockpit area is designed for both relaxation and entertainment. Owners enjoy the ample seating, which makes it perfect for gatherings with friends and family. Features like the wet bar and swim platform enhance the onboard experience. 4. Quality Craftsmanship: Many reviews emphasize the quality of the materials and construction. The attention to detail and finish is often cited as a reason for choosing Sea Ray. 5. Versatile Use: Customers appreciate the versatility of the 280 Sundancer, as it serves well for both day cruising and overnight stays. Its design allows for both fun and relaxation on the water. 6. Easy Maintenance: Owners often find the boat relatively easy to maintain, with accessible engine compartments and user-friendly systems. Overall, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer earns respect for its balance of style, efficiency, and comfort, making it a popular choice among boaters looking for both adventure and leisure on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Stylish Design: The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer showcases sleek lines and a modern aesthetic, making it an attractive choice for boaters who appreciate style.
Spacious Cabin: With a well-designed interior, the cabin offers ample space for relaxation. It can comfortably accommodate several adults with its plush seating and sleeping accommodations for weekends away.
Versatile Cockpit: The cockpit is designed for entertaining and comfort, featuring adjustable seating, a wet bar, and an easy-to-navigate layout for social gatherings.
Powerful Performance: Equipped with twin engines, the 280 Sundancer provides robust performance on the water, offering exceptional handling and maneuverability.
Amenities: The boat comes equipped with essential amenities, including a full galley, a refrigerator, and a head with a shower, making extended trips enjoyable and convenient.
Reliable Brand: Sea Ray is known for its commitment to quality, providing peace of mind regarding the durability and performance of their boats.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: While the performance is impressive, the twin engines can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to smaller models, which may be a concern for budget-conscious boaters.
Maintenance Costs: As with any boat, regular maintenance is crucial, and the watercraft's complexity may result in higher upkeep costs over time.
Limited Storage: While it offers decent living space, some owners find the storage options on the 2004 Sundancer to be limited for extended trips or larger gear.
Age Factor: Being a 2004 model, it's essential to consider the boat's condition and any necessary updates or repairs due to age, as this could impact performance and reliability.
Docking Size: The length and beam of the boat may pose challenges for docking in tight spaces, especially for less experienced boaters.
Made For
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is an ideal choice for boaters who seek a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and style. This versatile express cruiser is perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking to enjoy weekend getaways or day trips on the water. With its spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, it's designed for those who appreciate both socializing with friends and relaxing in comfort. The 280 Sundancer is perfect for water enthusiasts who value quality craftsmanship, modern amenities, and the ability to entertain or simply unwind surrounded by nature. Whether you are a seasoned boater or a newcomer looking to make memories on the water, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer provides a reliable and enjoyable experience for all types of boating adventures. Its user-friendly features and performance make it accessible for various skill levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the joys of life on the water.
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Boat Location
Contact Chicago Yacht Works about 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
2550 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60608
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