2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Solomons, MD US
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x Mercruiser)
31.1 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Maryland, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Maryland, United States
Manufacturer's Description: Another famous Sundancer makes a much-awaited appearance, and boaters everywhere cheer all 28 beautiful feet of her. The new Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is just the boat you've been waiting for. Beautiful. Sleek. Comfortable. With room to sleep six, she's just right for families who hate to leave the water when darkness falls.
Layout/Accomodations: Forward cabin has V-berth / seating area, mirrored bunkhead, cabinet/shelves,hanging locker, and privacy curtain. Convertible dinette to port, with galley opposite. Head aft of galley. Mid-cabin stateroom has a double berth, cabinet w/mirrored door, privacy curtain, and sliding window w/screen.
- Cherrywood interior
- Carpet and runner
- Accent pillows
- Clarion AM/FM stereo w/CD player
- TV/DVD player
- CO monitor
- AC/heat
Head:
- Vacuflush toilet
- Vanity with sink
- Shower and curtain
- Medicine cabinet
Galley
- Norcold AC/DC refrigerator
- Princess single-burner stovetop
- Sylvania microwave oven
- Ample storage
- Granite-colored countertops
Deck
- Tilt helm w/12V outlet
- Cockpit table
- Cockpit wet bar w/storage
- Transom shower
- Transom door
- Snap-in carpet
- Molded-in boarding step
- Foldaway bench seat
- Radar arch w/overhead lighting
- Windlass
Electronics
- Navman chart / GPS / fishfinder
- Raymarine 215 VHF radio
Electrical System
- Navman chart / GPS / fishfinder
- Raymarine 215 VHF radio
Engine/Mechanical
- Twin Mercruiser 4.3 MPI
- Power steering
- Trim tabs
- Remote oil filter
- Fire suppression system
- 12V bilge blower
Manufacturer's Description: Another famous Sundancer makes a much-awaited appearance, and boaters everywhere cheer all 28 beautiful feet of her. The new Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is just the boat you've been waiting for. Beautiful. Sleek. Comfortable. With room to sleep six, she's just right for families who hate to leave the water when darkness falls.
Layout/Accomodations: Forward cabin has V-berth / seating area, mirrored bunkhead, cabinet/shelves,hanging locker, and privacy curtain. Convertible dinette to port, with galley opposite. Head aft of galley. Mid-cabin stateroom has a double berth, cabinet w/mirrored door, privacy curtain, and sliding window w/screen.
- Cherrywood interior
- Carpet and runner
- Accent pillows
- Clarion AM/FM stereo w/CD player
- TV/DVD player
- CO monitor
- AC/heat
Head:
- Vacuflush toilet
- Vanity with sink
- Shower and curtain
- Medicine cabinet
Galley
- Norcold AC/DC refrigerator
- Princess single-burner stovetop
- Sylvania microwave oven
- Ample storage
- Granite-colored countertops
Deck
- Tilt helm w/12V outlet
- Cockpit table
- Cockpit wet bar w/storage
- Transom shower
- Transom door
- Snap-in carpet
- Molded-in boarding step
- Foldaway bench seat
- Radar arch w/overhead lighting
- Windlass
Electronics
- Navman chart / GPS / fishfinder
- Raymarine 215 VHF radio
Electrical System
- Navman chart / GPS / fishfinder
- Raymarine 215 VHF radio
Engine/Mechanical
- Twin Mercruiser 4.3 MPI
- Power steering
- Trim tabs
- Remote oil filter
- Fire suppression system
- 12V bilge blower
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
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is highly regarded by boaters for its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility
Customers commonly praise its spacious interior, which accommodates family and friends with ease, making it perfect for weekend getaways or entertaining guests. The open cockpit design allows for socializing while enjoying the fresh air, while the well-appointed cabin features amenities like a full galley, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and a clean, modern aesthetic. Many boaters appreciate the boat's solid construction and reliable performance on the water, noting that it handles well in various conditions. The powerful twin engines provide a thrilling experience, enhancing both speed and maneuverability. Additionally, the 280 Sundancer is often mentioned for its ample storage, making it easy to keep gear organized for day trips or extended voyages. Overall, it has established a loyal following due to its combination of style, functionality, and ease of use, making it a favored choice among cruising enthusiasts and families alike.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a well-regarded express cruiser that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some pros and cons associated with this model:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The cabin boasts a well-designed layout with ample headroom, comfortable seating, and a cozy sleeping area, making it ideal for weekend getaways.
Well-Equipped Galley: The galley features a refrigerator, microwave, and stove, providing flexibility for cooking and dining on board.
Impressive Performance: With twin MerCruiser engines, the 280 Sundancer delivers solid performance and agility on the water, allowing for enjoyable cruising experiences.
Good Stability and Handling: The hull design provides excellent stability, ensuring a smooth ride even in choppy waters.
Stylish Design: The sleek exterior and modern finishes make the 280 Sundancer visually appealing, a classic choice for those who value aesthetics.
Versatile Cockpit: The cockpit area is perfect for entertaining, with ample seating and a wet bar, enhancing the outdoor experience while cruising.
Storage Space: Plenty of storage options are available throughout the boat, making it easy to keep the cabin organized during outings.
Cons
Older Model: Being a 2004 model, some buyers may find more modern features in newer boats, which could be a drawback for those seeking the latest technology.
Maintenance History: Depending on the previous owner's care, condition can vary. Prospective buyers should thoroughly inspect the vessel for any signs of wear or needed repairs.
Fuel Consumption: The twin-engine setup, while powerful, can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to more modern, fuel-efficient models.
Limited Sleeping Capacity: While it comfortably sleeps four, it may not be ideal for larger groups or families looking for additional sleeping arrangements.
Draft: The boat's draft can limit access to shallower areas, which may restrict where you can take it, especially in low-tide situations.
Made For
The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is designed for boat enthusiasts who seek a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Ideal for families and friends looking to enjoy weekend getaways or day trips, this model is perfect for those who appreciate both leisure and adventure on the water. With its sleek lines and spacious layout, the 280 Sundancer is perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing. It caters to those who value both outdoor living, with a generous cockpit area for sunbathing and socializing, and indoor comfort, featuring a well-appointed cabin with sleeping accommodations. Whether you're a first-time boat owner or a seasoned mariner, this vessel is suited for anyone who desires a reliable and stylish boat that can easily navigate bays and coastal waters. The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is for anyone looking to create lasting memories on the water.
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Contact Paul Bowers about 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Solomons, MD



























