2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
$42,900
Boat in Essex, MD 21221 US
Built in 2004
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x MerCruiser)
28.3 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
This 280 Sundancer combines sleek styling with quality amenities, and sporty performance. She has a well appointed interior including a full kitchenette, cherry cabinetry, vacu-flush head with shower, AC/Heat, and she sleeps four adults and two children. In her clean engine room, "Loose Seal" is powered by twin Mercruiser 4.3 MPI motors with less then 400 hours, along with the generator to power up all your electrical needs while out on the water. The cockpit has a wet bar, portside lounger, fold-down sun pad, a sporty helm with flip-up seat, wood grain dash, tilt wheel, sport arch with overhead lighting and more. She's priced right and scheduled for a full detail next week, (week of 4/21/2025).
Engine and generator hours are as of the date of the original listing and are a representation of what the listing broker is told by the owner and/or actual reading of the engine hour meters. The broker cannot guarantee the true hours. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or his agent to verify engine hours, warranties implied or otherwise and major overhauls as well as all other representations noted on the listing brochure.
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/17/25 | Initial price | $42,900 |
2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Video Tours
Boattest.com 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 praise the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its sleek design and comfortable layout, making it ideal for both day cruising and weekend getaways
Many highlight the spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, which offers ample seating and sleeping accommodations. The boat's performance is frequently noted for its smooth handling and reliable power, providing an enjoyable ride on various water conditions. Owners also appreciate the quality craftsmanship and durable materials used throughout. Some mention that routine maintenance keeps the vessel running optimally, contributing to its lasting appeal. Overall, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is valued for blending style, comfort, and performance in a versatile package.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular express cruiser known for its blend of performance, comfort, and style. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer offers a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a galley, and an enclosed head, making it great for weekend trips.
Performance: Equipped with reliable engines, it delivers solid performance and handling, suitable for both cruising and watersports.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for its sturdy construction and attention to detail, and the 280 Sundancer reflects that with durable materials and finish.
Cockpit Layout: The cockpit is thoughtfully laid out with ample seating and storage, providing a comfortable and social atmosphere.
Ease of Handling: Its size and design make it manageable for single-handed operation or with a small crew.
Cons
Limited Headroom: While the cabin is spacious, the headroom can be a bit tight for taller individuals.
Fuel Efficiency: Like many boats in this class, fuel consumption can be on the higher side, especially at top speeds.
Aging Electronics: Depending on previous ownership, the onboard electronics and systems may be outdated and could require upgrades.
Storage Space: Although there is decent storage, it might be limited for extended trips or larger groups.
Maintenance Costs: As a 2004 model, maintenance and upkeep might be more frequent compared to newer boats, impacting overall operating costs.
Made For
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and stylish cruiser that combines comfort, performance, and ease of handling. Ideal for small families, couples, or groups of friends, it offers ample space for day trips, weekend getaways, and coastal cruising. Whether you're looking to enjoy relaxing afternoons on the water, entertaining guests, or exploring new destinations, this boat caters to those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and a well-appointed cabin in a manageable size.
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 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $42,900 | $44,900 | $39,000 | $34,900 | $32,000 | $29,900 |
| Essex | Annapolis | Glen Burnie | Elkton | Stevensville | Severna Park |
| - | 34' | 28' | 26' | 24' | 28' |
| 3' | - | - | - | - | - |
| MerCruiser | MerCruiser | MerCruiser | Mercruiser | MerCruiser | MerCruiser |
| 220 hp | 310 hp | 220 hp | 300 hp | 260 hp | 220 hp |
| 397 | 353 | 370 | 938 | 652 | 278 |
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Our mission is to provide boaters unequaled brokerage and ownership services before, during and after every transaction. We hold ourselves to the highest levels of expertise and professional standards. We have cultivated a standard at United Yacht whereby our client's best interest is at the center of everything we do.
Boat Location
Contact United Yacht Sales about 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
2015 Turkey Point Road, Essex, Maryland, 21221
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