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2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Galena, MD US
Built in 2004
280 Sundancer
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28 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Maryland, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Maryland, United States
The 280 Sundancer Always Draws A Crowd And This One's Blue Hull Looks Great
Twin 4.3's, Radar, GPS & Cockpit Upholstery Looks Great
Mooring Canvas As Well As Camper Canvas. Don't Wait On This One.
The 280 Sundancer Always Draws A Crowd And This One's Blue Hull Looks Great
Twin 4.3's, Radar, GPS & Cockpit Upholstery Looks Great
Mooring Canvas As Well As Camper Canvas. Don't Wait On This One.
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 who have experienced the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer often praise its blend of style, performance, and comfort
Many boaters appreciate the sleek design and spacious layout, which makes it ideal for both day cruising and overnight trips. Owners frequently highlight the well-appointed interior, featuring a cozy cabin with a galley, a generous dinette, and a comfortable V-berth, providing a perfect escape after a day on the water. The easy-to-use cockpit with ample seating is also a favorite among users, making socializing with family and friends effortless. Performance-wise, the 280 Sundancer is lauded for its sturdy handling and reliable engine options, ensuring a smooth ride, whether cruising or navigating choppy waters. Additionally, the boat’s ample storage space is often mentioned, allowing for a clutter-free outing. Overall, the combination of comfort, performance, and aesthetics makes the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer a highly regarded choice among boating enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a well-regarded express cruiser known for its blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some pros and cons to consider for this model:
Pros
Comfortable Cabin: The 280 Sundancer offers a spacious and stylish interior with seating for several people. The galley is well-equipped, and the V-berth and mid-berth provide comfortable sleeping accommodations for weekend getaways.
Versatile Cockpit: The cockpit features ample seating and a well-laid-out helm. It’s ideal for entertaining guests and enjoying time on the water. The integrated swim platform adds to its functionality for swimming and water sports.
Smooth Ride: Powered by twin MerCruiser engines, the 280 Sundancer offers a smooth and reliable ride, with good maneuverability and handling. This makes it suitable for both calm waters and more challenging conditions.
Stylish Design: The Sea Ray brand is known for its attention to detail and aesthetic appeal. The sleek lines and modern design of the 2004 model enhance its attractiveness on the water.
Solid Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for its durable construction and quality materials. This model typically features a solid fiberglass hull and a well-protected and maintained aesthetic over time.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: While the twin engine setup provides great power and performance, it can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to smaller or single-engine boats. This is a consideration for those planning longer trips.
Space Limitations: Although the cabin is designed effectively, some users may find the overall living space limited when compared to larger cruisers. The headroom and storage may be somewhat restricted for longer voyages.
Age and Maintenance: Being a 2004 model, potential buyers should be aware of the necessity for careful inspection and possible maintenance due to its age. Wear and tear on components may require attention, particularly for systems such as the engines and electrical components.
Less Storage: While the 280 Sundancer is relatively spacious for its size, some owners have noted that storage compartments may not be as generous as other boat models intended for longer-term living.
Price Stability: Depending on the market and condition, the resale value may not always remain as stable as hoped, especially if looking to sell after a few years of ownership.
Made For
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is the perfect choice for boating enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Ideal for both first-time boaters and seasoned mariners, this vessel caters to a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with family, a day of watersports with friends, or simply a relaxing cruise along the coast, the Sundancer delivers. Families will appreciate the spacious cabin and thoughtful design, allowing for comfortable overnight stays and accommodating multiple guests. The well-appointed galley, complete with essential amenities, makes preparing meals a breeze, while the large cockpit provides ample room for entertaining and lounging in the sun. For adventure seekers, the 280 Sundancer's powerful engine options offer exhilarating performance, enabling effortless travel to your favorite destinations. The sleek, stylish exterior and optional features, such as a swim platform and radar arch, enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re exploring serene waterways or anchoring in vibrant harbors, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer invites you to experience the pleasures of life on the water. It's designed for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship, luxury, and the thrill of adventure—all in one beautifully crafted package.
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Galena, MD
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