2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
$39,999
Boat in Norwalk, CT 06850 US
Built in 2005
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x MerCruiser)
31.1 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
2005 280 Sea Ray Sundancer
Power:
Twin Mercruiser 5.0 MPIs (620 Hours)
Manifolds and Risers Replaced (2021)
Bravo III Drives
Transom Assemblys (2021)
Xantrax 1800 Watt Inverter
Features / Upgrades:
Garmin GPS
Fusion Stereo and Speakers (2021)
Under Water Lights (2021)
TV (2021)
AC/DC Refrigerator (2022)
LIST OF RECENT UPDATES / SERVICES
4/2022
Distributor Caps and Rotor (Both Engines)
Idle air control valve (Starboard)
Oil Change (Both Engines)
Drive Oil Change (Both Engines)
Drain Plug replacement
Zinc Replacement
Bottom Paint
Trim Tab Hinges
Steering Cable
Steering U-Joint
Steering Rack
Oil Filters (Both Engines)
Fuel Filters (Both Engines)
Fuel Water separators (Both Engines)
Refrigerator Replacement
Horn Replacement
10/2021
Water Pressure Sensor (Starboard)
8/2021
Heat exchanger clean/repair (Starboard Engine)
Idle air control valve (Port)
4/2021
Transom Assemblies - Gimbal, Transom and Trim (Both Engines)
Water Pump (Starboard)
Fuel Pump (Starboard Engine)
Fuel Injectors (Starboard Engine)
Oil Change (Both Engines)
Oil Filters (Both Engines)
Fuel Filters (Both Engines)
Fuel Water separators (Both Engines)
Raw Water Pump Rebuild (Both Engines)
Exhaust Elbows and Gaskets (Both Engines)
Exhaust Horns and Flappers (Both Engines)
Trim Pump (Starboard)
Trim Tab Pump Solenoids
Motor Mounts (Both Engines)
Oil Drain Hose (Both Engines)
Spark Plugs (Both Engines)
Shaft Couplers (Both Engines)
Thermostats (Both Engines)
Coolant Flush (Both Engines)
Stereo Upgrade to Fusion
Amplifier
Speakers
Tweeters
Sub
Head Unit
Remote Units
Wire
Inverter Install
Underwater Lights Install
TV Replacement
VacuFlush Service
Seal Replacement
Pump
Vacuum Switch Replacement
AC Service
Water Heater Service
Bilge Painting
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2/21/25 | Price decreased | $39,999(-11.1%) |
| 8/9/24 | Initial price | $44,999 |
2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Video Tours
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 praising the 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer often highlight its blend of style, comfort, and performance
Many appreciate the spacious cabin layout, which offers a cozy yet functional living space ideal for weekend getaways or day trips. The boat's well-designed helm and responsive handling receive positive remarks, making it enjoyable and easy to pilot. Users also note the quality of the build and the attention to detail in the finishes. Overall, owners find the 280 Sundancer to be a reliable and versatile cruiser that delivers a satisfying boating experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular mid-sized cruiser known for its blend of comfort, performance, and style. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Cabin: The 280 Sundancer offers a roomy interior with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a well-equipped galley, and a private head, making it ideal for weekend getaways.
Smooth Ride: With its deep-V hull design, the boat provides a stable and smooth ride even in choppy waters.
Powerful Performance: Equipped with reliable engines, it delivers good speed and handling for cruising and water sports.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and attention to detail, ensuring durability and a refined finish.
Good Storage: Ample storage compartments throughout the boat make it practical for extended trips.
Well-Designed Cockpit: The cockpit area is spacious with comfortable seating and a convenient layout for entertaining guests.
Cons
Fuel Consumption: Being a mid-sized cruiser with powerful engines, fuel efficiency may be lower compared to smaller boats.
Maintenance Costs: As with many boats of this class and age, maintenance and upkeep can be somewhat costly.
Limited Headroom: While comfortable, the cabin headroom may feel a bit restricted for taller individuals.
Aging Electronics: Depending on previous upgrades, onboard electronics and navigation systems might be outdated and require updating.
Weight: The boat's weight can affect trailering ease and may require a heavy-duty vehicle for transport.
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 entertaining on the water. Its well-designed cabin and amenities make it suitable for those who appreciate both relaxation and adventure, whether navigating coastal waters or enjoying lakes and rivers.
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Other Information about Southpaw Yacht Sales
Southpaw Yacht Sales is a full service yacht broker with an unwavering focus on our customers' best interests. Purchasing a yacht or boat entails several intricate and sometimes complex steps, but we have the vast experience and connections needed to make the process easy and fun. We provide assistance with every step of the transaction from documentation to cleaning and delivery. There is a difference between simply buying a yacht and receiving unparalleled assistance throughout the whole process - that difference is Southpaw Yacht Sales. We are located in Greenwich, CT.
Contact Southpaw Yacht Sales about 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
7 River Road, Suite 7B, Cos Cob, CT, 06807
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