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2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Miami, FL 33180 US

$24,990

Used
We will let you know when another 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is available in Miami, FL
builtBuilt in 2005
Year the boat was built
model

280 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (MERCURY, Mercury)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

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The Image of 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boat lifted by forklift under clear blue sky. - 02005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Price$24,990$25,000$25,990$22,000
LocationMiamiDaniaHollywoodDeland
Nominal Length28'31'19'32'
Engine MakeMERCURYMerCruiserMercuryUS MARINE
Total Engine Power-300 hp150 hp-
Days on Market5881155134
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Other 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer For Sale in Florida, United States

Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
31.08ft
Beam
9.42ft
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
deep-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
MERCURY
Engine Hours
700
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Drive Type
stern
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Hours
700
Fuel Type
gasoline
Drive Type
stern

Price History

DateEventPrice
10/24/25No change$34,900
10/23/25Price decreased$24,990(-28.4%)

Contact All Florida Yacht Sales

18211 SW 95th Court, Palmetto Bay, FL, 33157

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 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

Customers praise the 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its sleek design and comfortable layout, making it an excellent choice for both day cruising and overnight trips

Many highlight the spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, which includes a cozy sleeping area and a functional galley. Owners appreciate the boat's reliable performance, smooth handling, and strong engine options that provide confidence on the water. Additionally, users often mention the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail typical of Sea Ray boats. Some note minor maintenance needs due to the boat's age, but overall, the 280 Sundancer is regarded as a versatile and enjoyable cruiser that offers great value for its class.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer offers a blend of comfort, performance, and style, making it a popular choice for boating enthusiasts. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer features a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a full galley, and an enclosed head, making it ideal for overnight trips.

Performance: Powered by reliable engines, it delivers smooth handling and good cruising speed, suitable for both coastal and inland waters.

Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and quality materials, providing durability and a premium feel.

Cockpit Layout: The cockpit area is spacious with ample seating and storage, perfect for entertaining and relaxing.

Versatility: Its size and amenities make it versatile for day cruising, weekend getaways, or fishing.

Cons

Storage Space: While the boat offers decent storage, some owners find it somewhat limited for extended trips or larger gear.

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

Maintenance Costs: Maintenance and upkeep can be costly due to the complexity of onboard systems and quality components.

Aging Electronics: Depending on the specific boat’s upgrades, the original 2005 electronics and navigation systems may be outdated and require modernization.

Made For

The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and stylish cruiser that combines comfort with performance. Ideal for small families, couples, or groups of friends, this boat offers ample space for day trips, weekend getaways, or overnight stays. Its well-designed cabin and cockpit areas make it suitable for those who enjoy both relaxing on the water and entertaining guests, while its manageable size ensures easy handling for both experienced and novice boaters. Whether you're looking to fish, cruise coastal waters, or simply unwind, the 280 Sundancer provides a reliable and enjoyable boating experience.

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18211 SW 95th Court
Palmetto Bay, FL 33157

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