2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Erie, PA US
Built in 2004
280 Sundancer
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31 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Pennsylvania, United States
Selling only to buy a bigger boat.� Just listed, more details to follow. Won't last long!
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Selling only to buy a bigger boat.� Just listed, more details to follow. Won't last long!
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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
Customers have praised the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its combination of style, performance, and functionality
Many owners appreciate the boat’s sleek design, which captures the essence of luxury and adventure on the water. The spacious cockpit is frequently noted for its comfortable seating and layout, making it ideal for entertaining friends and family. Inside, the cabin offers a well-designed living space, with ample headroom, a fully-equipped galley, and a cozy sleeping area. Owners often highlight the quality of materials and attention to detail, contributing to a refined atmosphere while on board. Performance-wise, the 280 Sundancer is lauded for its smooth ride and responsive handling, making it suitable for both cruising and spirited outings. The efficient twin engines provide a balance of power and fuel economy, enhancing the overall experience for users. Overall, feedback reflects a sense of satisfaction with the boat’s versatility, whether used for day trips, weekend getaways, or longer excursions. The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer consistently earns high marks for its blend of comfort, style, and performance, making it a popular choice among boat enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer - Pros and Cons
Pros
Stylish Design: The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boasts a sleek and modern look, making it visually appealing for those seeking a stylish cruising experience.
Comfortable Cabin: With a well-designed cabin layout, the boat offers ample seating and sleeping space, accommodating up to four people comfortably. The interior features high-quality materials that enhance the overall aesthetic and comfort.
Versatility: This model is excellent for day cruising, weekend getaways, or even longer trips, thanks to its blend of performance and comfort.
Ample Storage: The boat provides plenty of storage compartments for gear, making it convenient for extended outings.
Powerful Performance: Powered by twin MerCruiser engines, the 280 Sundancer delivers solid performance on the water with good maneuverability and speed.
Integrated Swim Platform: The extended swim platform makes for easy access to the water, perfect for swimming, diving, or lounging in the sun.
Dedicated Head: The included privacy head provides essential amenities, enhancing the boat's livability for longer trips.
Cons
Limited Fuel Capacity: The fuel tank size may be a limiting factor for those planning extended voyages, potentially requiring more frequent refueling.
Maintenance Costs: As with many older boats, ongoing maintenance and repair costs can add up, especially if there are issues with the engines or other systems.
Draft Limitations: While the 280 Sundancer is great for many water conditions, its draft may limit access to shallower waters, making it less suitable for certain destinations.
Older Technology: Being a 2004 model, some onboard technology and electronics may not match the advanced features found in more current boats.
Weight: The heavy build of the boat may affect fuel efficiency compared to lighter alternatives, which can be a consideration for some buyers.
Made For
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for boating enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of luxury and performance on the water. Ideal for families and couples, this versatile vessel offers ample space for relaxation and entertainment, making it perfect for weekend getaways or day trips. With its sleek design and powerful engines, the 280 Sundancer caters to those who enjoy both leisurely cruising and exhilarating rides. Its thoughtfully designed cockpit and cabin provide comfort for social gatherings, while the functional galley and spacious sleeping accommodations ensure that overnight trips are enjoyable. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a newcomer to the boating world, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to connect with friends and family while making cherished memories on the water.
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Erie, PA
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