2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

$45,000

Used

Boat in Merritt Island, FL 32952 US

builtBuilt in 2004
Year the boat was built
model

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (MerCruiser)

Engine type and count
length

31.1 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Length Overall
31.08ft
Length at Waterline
28ft
Beam
8.5ft
Max Draft
3.25ft
Deadrise At Transom
21deg
Dry Weight
8500lb
Heads
1
Fresh Water Tanks
28gal
Fuel Tanks
100gal
Holding Tanks
28gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
planing
Engine 1
Engine Make
MerCruiser
Engine Model
496 Magnum Bravo III
Total Power
375hp
Engine Hours
788
Engine Type
inboard/outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2003
Drive Type
stern
Ac
Summary
2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Upgrades and Service
  • Seadeck on Swim Platform with Cover
  • New Bottom Paint 2025 not kept in the water
  • New Isinglass with Full Camper Canvas
  • Bellows
  • Heat Exchanger Serviced 2025
  • Close Cooling System Stainless Steel Risers Inspected 2024 
  • Annual Services done Fluids, Impellers
Vessel Details
  • Forward D Double Berth with Filler Cushions and Table
  • Two Hanging Lockers
  • Convertible Dinette with Dining Table and Filler Cushions
  • Mid Cabin Double Berth
  • Privacy Curtain
  • Head and Shower with VacuFlush and Sink
  • Full Galley
  • AC and Heat throughout

Galley:

  • Origo Microwave
  • Norcold 12/110 Refrigerator/Freezer
  • Sink and Storage
  • Kenyon Single Burner Stove

Deck:

  • Radar Arch
  • Walk Thru Windshield with Steps
  • Double Bimini Tops with Boot and Camper Canvas
  • Helm Seat with Bolster
  • L-Shaped Seating Port Side
  • Aft Removable Seating
  • Wet Bar
  • Snap In Carpet
  • Full Cockpit Cover
  • Transom Door
  • Cockpit Shower
  • Transom Storage
  • Swim Platform with Ladder and Sea Deck with Sun Cover
  • Electric Windlass with Lewmar Anchor on Roller
  • Cockpit Speakers and Subwoofer

Electrical:

  • Kohler 5 KW Generator with only 101 Hours, Looks New
  • 30 Amp Dock Service
  • AC/DC Electrical Service Panel
  • GFI and USP Sharing Ports
  • CruiseAir AC/Heat
  • Two Group 27 Batteries
  • Intell Power Battery Charger

Helm and Electronics:

  • Helm Seat with Bolster
  • Tilt Wheel
  • Garmin GPS Map 
  • Windlass Control
  • Wet Sounds Stereo Bluetooth and XM
  • Four Wet Sound Speakers with Subwoofer
  • Garmin VHF Radio
  • Guest Remote Spotlight

Engine Room:

  • Mercruiser 496 Mag Fresh Water Cooled 375 Hp with 788 Hours 
  • Mercruiser Bravo III Drive with Stainless Steel Props 
  • Seafire Automatic Fire Suppression System
  • Kohler 5 KW Generator 101 Hours

This is the cleanest used boat engine room.

Broker's Comments

This is an exceptionally well-taken care of Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, you will be surprised by the way this boat shows, the cleanest engine room I've seen on a used boat !!

Mechanical Disclaimer

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.

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
3/26/26Price decreased$45,000(-13.5%)
12/9/25Initial price$52,000

Contact United Yacht Sales

2700 Harbortown Drive, Merritt Island , FL, 32952

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 versatile design, combining comfort and performance in a midsize cruiser

Many highlight the spacious cabin layout, which offers ample seating and sleeping accommodations, making it ideal for weekend getaways. The cockpit area is frequently noted for its ergonomic arrangement and ease of socializing while underway or at rest. Owners appreciate the boat’s reliable twin-engine setup, providing smooth handling and good fuel efficiency for its class. The vessel’s quality construction and stylish finishes receive positive remarks, contributing to an overall sense of luxury on the water. Some users mention that maintenance is straightforward, with readily available parts and service options. Overall, customers find the 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer to be a well-rounded boat that balances comfort, functionality, and style, making it a popular choice among boating enthusiasts seeking a dependable and enjoyable cruiser.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer offers a blend of performance, comfort, and style, making it a popular choice for weekend cruising. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Spacious Layout: The 280 Sundancer features a well-designed cabin with comfortable seating, a full galley, and a private head, ideal for overnight stays.

Performance: Powered by reliable engines, it delivers smooth handling and good speed for its size.

Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and attention to detail, providing durability and a quality finish.

Versatility: Suitable for both day trips and extended cruising with family or friends.

Amenities: Includes features like a swim platform, ample storage, and a roomy cockpit area for entertaining.

Cons

Fuel Efficiency: As with many boats in this class, fuel consumption can be on the higher side, especially at top speeds.

Maintenance Costs: Older models may require more upkeep, and parts can be costly.

Limited Headroom: The cabin headroom may feel a bit cramped for taller individuals.

Aging Electronics: Depending on previous upgrades, navigation and onboard electronics might be outdated.

Storage: While adequate for weekend trips, longer voyages might require additional storage solutions.

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, this model is well-suited for day trips, weekend getaways, or coastal cruising. Its spacious layout, quality craftsmanship, and reliable engine make it a great choice for those who want to enjoy both relaxation and adventure on the water. Whether you're new to boating or an experienced captain, the 280 Sundancer offers a balanced blend of luxury and practicality.

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 Express 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.
Monthly payment
$284.96/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 38,250
Total Payment$68,389.58

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 Express 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.
Monthly payment
$284.96/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 38,250
Total Payment$68,389.58

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Meet the Broker

Address

2700 Harbortown Drive
Merritt Island , FL 32952
Other Information about United Yacht Sales

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.

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