2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

$32,250

Used

Boat in Wantagh, NY 11793 US

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
Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
28ft
Beam
9.42ft
Max Draft
3.25ft
Dry Weight
8500lb
Cabins
1
Fresh Water Tanks
30gal
Fuel Tanks
100gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
modified-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
4.3L MPI
Total Power
220hp
Engine Hours
777
Engine Type
Inboard/Outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2004
Drive Type
stern
Propeller Material
stainless-steel
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
4.3L MPI
Total Power
220hp
Engine Hours
777
Engine Type
Inboard/Outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine Year
2004
Drive Type
stern
Propeller Material
stainless-steel
Anchor
Anchor Rode
Bench Seat
Bow Pulpit
Bow Rail
Cleats Fixed
Cockpit Seating
Cockpit Table
Isinglass
Non Skid Deck
Sink Cockpit
Steering Wheel
Swim Ladder ( Stern )
Swim Platform
Transom Walk Through
Transom Door
Windlass
Windlass Locker
Windshield Walk Through
Cabin Lighting
Cabinets
Carpet Cabin
Dinette
Hanging Locker
Head
Heat
Microwave
Mirror
Refrigerator
Shower
Sink Galley
Stove
Window Treatments
110v Ac Outlets
12 V Dc Outlets
Ac Electric Panel
Battery Switch
Circuit Breaker Panel
Cockpit Accent Lighting
Courtesy Lights
Fuel Gauge
Fuse Panel
Power Trim & Tilt Gauge
Shore Power
Shower Sump Pump
Speedometer
Stereo
Tachometer
Volt Meter
Water Heater
Water Temp Gauge
Bilge Blower
Bilge Pump
Fuel Injected
Power Trim & Tilt
Throttle/shift: Mech
Trim Tab Controls
Trim Tabs
Compass
Gps/ Fishfinder/ Plotter
Navigation Lights
Vhf
Vhf Antenna
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Engine Kill Switch
Halon Fire Suppression
Searchlight
Sump Pump
Yacht Certified
Bottom Paint Antifouling
Radar Arch
Tagline
280 Sundancer equipped with twin, Mercruiser 4.3 Liter V-6 MPI engines, approximately 720 hours on each engine!
Condition detail
This boat shows excellent condition and is one of the cleanest 280 Sundancers I've seen in a long time. All vinyl seating in a cockpit is in excellent condition, soft and supple with no tears. The cabin is in excellent condition, with all soft-touch materials in good condition no leaks visible anywhere. The engine compartment is super clean. Both engines look fantastic with no signs of rust anywhere.
Selling reason
not using
AC detail
10000 btu

Price History

DateEventPrice
9/30/25Price decreased$32,250(-13.4%)
8/14/25Price decreased$37,250(-11.8%)
7/12/25Initial price$42,250

Contact Pop Yachts

5717 Bessie Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34233

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 sleek design, spacious interior, and reliable performance

Many highlight the comfortable seating and well-appointed cabin, making it ideal for day trips and weekend getaways. The boat's handling is often described as smooth and responsive, providing confidence on the water. Owners also appreciate the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail typical of Sea Ray vessels. Overall, the 280 Sundancer is valued for combining style, comfort, and functionality in a versatile package.

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 Cabin: Offers comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to four people, with a well-designed layout including a V-berth and convertible dinette.

Quality Construction: Solid fiberglass hull and reliable Sea Ray craftsmanship ensure durability and longevity.

Good Performance: Powered by a reliable engine, it provides smooth handling and respectable cruising speeds.

Well-Equipped Galley: Includes essential amenities such as a stove, microwave, refrigerator, and sink, making extended trips convenient.

Comfortable Cockpit: Features ample seating, a wet bar, and plenty of storage space, ideal for entertaining guests.

Easy Handling: The helm station is user-friendly with clear instrumentation and good visibility.

Cons

Limited Headroom: Cabin headroom can feel a bit cramped for taller individuals, which may affect comfort during extended stays.

Fuel Efficiency: As with many express cruisers of this size, fuel consumption can be on the higher side, especially at top speeds.

Age-Related Wear: Being a 2004 model, some components and systems might require maintenance or upgrades depending on previous care.

Storage Space: While adequate for weekend trips, storage can be limited for longer voyages or larger groups.

Noise Levels: Engine and road noise can be more noticeable inside the cabin compared to larger yachts with better sound insulation.

Made For

The 2004 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and stylish cruiser. Ideal for small families, couples, or friends looking to enjoy day trips or weekend getaways on the water, this boat offers a comfortable cabin, ample seating, and reliable performance. Whether you're interested in leisurely cruises, fishing excursions, or entertaining guests, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer combines functionality and comfort to meet a variety of recreational boating needs.

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
$204.22/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 27,412
Total Payment$49,011.64

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
$204.22/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 27,412
Total Payment$49,011.64

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Address

5717 Bessie Drive
Sarasota, FL 34233

Boat Location

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