2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Boat in Berkeley, CA 94710 US

$39,500

Used
builtBuilt in 2005
Year the boat was built
model

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Mercruiser)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

--

Hull material
Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
28ft
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercruiser
Engine Model
383 MAG Stroker MPI
Total Power
350hp
Engine Hours
250
Engine Type
Inboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Tagline
2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer, repowered with 383 MAG Stroker MPI, approx. 250 hours.
Selling reason
No longer using

Price History

DateEventPrice
6/13/26Initial price$39,500

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 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

Customers rave about the 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its blend of comfort, style, and performance

Many owners appreciate the spacious and well-designed cockpit, providing ample seating for entertaining family and friends. The versatile layout includes a generous swim platform and easy access to the cabin, making it perfect for both day trips and overnight excursions. Inside, the cabin impresses with its modern finishes, accommodating galley, and cozy sleeping arrangements for a weekend getaway. Reviewers note the well-appointed interior and the clever use of space, with features such as a full head, comfortable V-berth, and dining area that transforms seamlessly. Performance-wise, the 280 Sundancer is often praised for its smooth ride and reliable handling, with many finding the twin engine setup offers both power and efficiency. Owners typically mention how the boat handles well in various conditions, making it a favorite for recreational cruising. Overall, the consensus is that the 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer combines luxury with practicality, making it a standout choice for boating enthusiasts looking for a versatile and enjoyable vessel.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular choice among boaters looking for a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Spacious Cabin: The cabin offers ample space with a well-designed layout, providing comfortable sleeping accommodations for up to four people. The V-berth and mid-cabin are great for family or friends.

Stylish Design: The Sundancer features a sleek and modern profile that is visually appealing, making it a head-turner on the water.

Performance: Equipped with twin engines, the 280 Sundancer delivers impressive performance, allowing for smooth cruising and swift acceleration. The responsive handling makes it enjoyable to drive.

Versatile Cockpit: The cockpit is designed for entertaining, featuring comfortable seating and an integrated wet bar. Great for socializing and relaxing while on the water.

Well-Equipped Galley: The galley comes equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop, which adds convenience for onboard meals and snacks.

Good Storage Space: The boat provides ample storage options throughout, allowing you to stow away gear and keep the cabin organized.

Cons

Fuel Economy: The twin-engine setup, while providing power, can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to single-engine boats, especially at higher speeds.

Draft Limitations: With a deeper draft, the 280 Sundancer may not be suitable for shallow waters, limiting where you can anchor or explore.

Maintenance Costs: While built to last, the twin engines require more maintenance and potential repair costs than a single-engine vessel, which could be a consideration for owners.

Limited Bow Space: While the cockpit is spacious, the bow area can feel somewhat limited, especially for sunbathing or lounging.

Older Model Considerations: As a 2005 model, some features may be less advanced compared to newer boats, and upgrades or replacements may be necessary for certain systems. By weighing these pros and cons, potential buyers can determine if the 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer aligns with their boating needs and lifestyle.

Made For

The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for those seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and style on the water. Ideal for families and groups of friends, this versatile cruiser caters to a variety of boating enthusiasts. With ample space for relaxation and entertainment, it’s perfect for day trips, weekend getaways, or longer adventures. The Sundancer’s well-designed layout offers a spacious cockpit for socializing, complete with comfortable seating and a wet bar, making it an entertainer’s dream. The cabin features a cozy V-berth and a well-equipped galley, making it suitable for overnight stays. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a newcomer to the world of cruising, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer provides a reliable and stylish option for those looking to explore the waters, enjoy watersports, or simply unwind and soak in the sun. It's a wonderful choice for those who appreciate luxury and practicality in their boating experience.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2005 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 33,575
Total Payment$60,030.85
Monthly payment
$250.13/mo

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2005 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 33,575
Total Payment$60,030.85
Monthly payment
$250.13/mo

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Meet the Broker

Address

5717 Bessie Drive
Sarasota, FL 34233

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