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2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Sold Boat in Sturgeon Bay, WI US

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Used
We will let you know when another 2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is available in Sturgeon Bay, WI
builtBuilt in 2004
Year the boat was built
model

280 SUNDANCER

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x Mercury)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Other

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

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The Image of Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER 2004 - 02004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
PricePrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on request$15,000
LocationSturgeon BayPewaukeeSturgeon BayOshkoshLake GenevaOshkosh
Nominal Length28'32'32'32'32'27'
Engine MakeMercuryMERCURYMERCURYMERCURYMERCURYMercruiser
Total Engine Power-350 hp400 hp350 hp350 hp310 hp
Days on Market266115573505824
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Other Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER boats for sale in Wisconsin, United States

Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
28ft
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Model
MERCURY T-5.0L
Fuel Type
other
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Model
MERCURY T-5.0L
Fuel Type
other

Contact

Sturgeon Bay, WI

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

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is often praised by customers for its impressive blend of style, performance, and functionality

Boat enthusiasts appreciate its sleek design and spacious layout, which makes it perfect for day cruising or weekend getaways. Users often highlight the comfortable seating and ample cabin space, noting that it can easily accommodate family and friends. The well-equipped galley and dual-berth configuration add to its appeal for overnight trips. Additionally, the cockpit is designed for entertaining, featuring a wet bar and ample storage, which enhances the onboard experience. Performance-wise, owners report that the 280 SUNDANCER delivers a smooth ride, with responsive handling and powerful engines that provide confidence on the water. The boat’s stability and ease of maneuverability are commonly mentioned, making it suitable for both novice and experienced boaters. Overall, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER garners positive feedback for its versatility, comfort, and stylish appearance, making it a beloved choice among boating enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER: Pros and Cons

Pros

Stylish Design: The Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER features a sleek and modern design, making it visually appealing both on the water and at the dock.

Spacious Cockpit: The well-designed cockpit area provides ample seating, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a day out on the water. The layout promotes easy movement and access.

Comfortable Cabin: The cabin is equipped with comfortable accommodations, including a galley, dining area, and sleeping quarters, making it ideal for weekend getaways or longer excursions.

Powerful Performance: With twin engine options, the 280 SUNDANCER offers impressive acceleration and cruising speeds, allowing for a thrilling experience on the water.

Versatile Usage: This model can serve as a day boat for recreational activities and also function as a capable overnight cruiser for small groups.

Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for its solid construction and durability, ensuring that the 280 SUNDANCER is built to withstand the rigors of boating.

Cons

Fuel Consumption: The powerful engines can result in higher fuel consumption, which could be a downside for those looking for an economical option.

Limited Storage: While the cabin is comfortable, storage space can be somewhat limited, which might require additional organization for longer trips.

Maintenance Costs: As with any boat with twin engines, maintenance and repair costs can add up, requiring owners to budget accordingly.

Draft: The deeper draft may limit shallow-water exploration, which could affect cruising opportunities in certain locations.

Older Model: As a 2004 model, some systems and features may be dated compared to newer boats, which could lack modern conveniences.

Made For

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is ideal for boating enthusiasts who appreciate a versatile and stylish vessel. This model caters to a variety of boaters, including: 1. Couples and Small Families: With its comfortable layout and spacious cockpit, the 280 SUNDANCER is perfect for weekend getaways or day trips, making it a great choice for couples looking for a romantic escape or families wanting to spend quality time on the water. 2. First-Time Boat Owners: If you're new to boating, the 280 SUNDANCER offers a user-friendly experience with excellent maneuverability and a manageable size, making it a great entry-level option. 3. Weekend Adventurers: For those who enjoy quick excursions, the boat's ample storage, efficient engine performance, and onboard amenities allow for spontaneous weekends filled with exploration and leisure. 4. Social Entertainers: The spacious cockpit and comfortable seating make it ideal for hosting friends and family. The 280 SUNDANCER is perfect for entertaining with ample space for lounging or enjoying meals on the water. 5. Water Sports Enthusiasts: Its sleek design and powerful engine performance accommodate recreational activities, from fishing to watersports, making it a versatile choice for those who want to enjoy various activities on the water. Overall, the 2004 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is designed for anyone who values performance, comfort, and style, making it a fantastic option for a diverse range of boating lifestyles.

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