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2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Excelsior, MN 55331 US

$38,990

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

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x MerCruiser)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

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The Image of Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2004 - 02004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Price$38,990$39,900$39,900$39,900$39,900$39,900
LocationExcelsiorRochesterWayzataWayzataWayzataRochester
Nominal Length28'35'35'32'28'28'
Draft3'-----
Engine MakeMerCruiser-----
Total Engine Power220 hp-----
Days on Market4637777339339339
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Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
31.08ft
Beam
9.42ft
Max Draft
3.25ft
Drive Up Draft
1.83ft
Deadrise At Transom
21deg
Dry Weight
8500lb
Heads
1
Fresh Water Tanks
28gal
Fuel Tanks
100gal
Holding Tanks
28gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
deep-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
MerCruiser
Engine Model
4.3L MPI
Total Power
220hp
Engine Hours
283
Engine Type
inboard-outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2004
Drive Type
stern
Engine 2
Engine Make
MerCruiser
Engine Model
4.3L MPI
Total Power
220hp
Engine Hours
283
Engine Type
inboard-outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2004
Drive Type
stern
Disclaimer

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

DateEventPrice
8/4/25Price decreased$38,990(-11.4%)
7/22/25Price decreased$43,990(-4.3%)
6/28/25Initial price$45,990

Contact Midwest Yacht Sales

6413 St. Croix Trail North, Stillwater, MN, 55082

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 praise the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its stylish design, comfortable layout, and reliable performance

Many highlight the spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, making it ideal for weekend getaways or day cruises. The boat's handling and smooth ride receive positive remarks, along with its quality construction and attention to detail. Overall, owners appreciate the blend of luxury and functionality that the 280 Sundancer offers.

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 Interior: The 280 Sundancer offers a roomy cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a well-equipped galley, and a full head, making it suitable for weekend getaways.

Performance: Powered by reliable engines, this model delivers smooth handling and good speed for its class.

Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and attention to detail, and the 280 Sundancer reflects this with durable materials and finishes.

Cockpit Layout: The cockpit area is designed for socializing and relaxation, featuring ample seating and convenient access to the swim platform.

Versatility: Ideal for both day cruising and overnight trips, offering a good balance between size and amenities.

Cons

Engine Maintenance: Depending on usage and upkeep, the engines may require attention, and parts for older models can sometimes be harder to find.

Limited Headroom: While comfortable, the cabin headroom is somewhat limited, which might feel cramped for taller individuals.

Storage Space: Storage can be tight, especially for extended trips or when carrying additional gear.

Fuel Efficiency: As with many boats in this class, fuel consumption can be relatively high, impacting operating costs.

Age Considerations: Being a 2004 model, some components may be outdated or in need of refurbishment depending on previous maintenance.

Made For

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and stylish cruiser. Ideal for small families, couples, or friends who enjoy weekend getaways on the water, this model offers comfortable accommodations, ample storage, and reliable performance. Whether you're interested in day cruising, fishing, or overnight trips, the 280 Sundancer provides a blend of luxury and practicality suited for both novice and experienced boaters.

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$ 33,141
Total Payment$59,254.88
Monthly payment
$246.90/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$ 33,141
Total Payment$59,254.88
Monthly payment
$246.90/mo

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Meet the Broker

Address

6413 St. Croix Trail North
Stillwater, MN 55082

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