2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Sold Boat in Panama City, FL US
Built in 2005
280 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x MERCRUISER)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer For Sale in Florida, United States
Other Sea Ray 280 Sundancer boats for sale in Florida, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Florida, United States
2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Video Tours
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer: BoatTEST 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
The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer has garnered positive feedback from many boat enthusiasts and owners
Customers often praise its sleek design, spacious interior, and overall performance on the water. Owners appreciate the well-thought-out layout, which makes it ideal for both day trips and overnight stays. The comfortable seating and sunbathing areas create a perfect setting for entertaining friends and family. The cabin often receives compliments for its charm, with amenities like a galley, head, and sleeping quarters that make longer excursions enjoyable. Performance-wise, many users highlight its smooth ride and maneuverability, making it suitable for various water conditions. The twin engine setup is frequently mentioned for providing ample power, allowing for quick acceleration and responsive handling. Overall, the 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is celebrated for its blend of comfort, style, and functionality, making it a favored choice among boating enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular choice among boaters looking for a versatile and comfortable cruiser. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:
Pros
Spacious Cabin: The interior layout features a well-appointed cabin with ample space, making it ideal for weekend getaways or extended cruising.
Comfortable Living Areas: With a full galley, a queen-sized V-berth, and a separate mid-cabin berth, the 280 Sundancer comfortably accommodates up to six people.
Well-Equipped Galley: The galley typically includes a refrigerator, microwave, sink, and alcohol/electric stove, allowing for the preparation of meals onboard.
Solid Performance: With reliable twin engine options, the 280 Sundancer delivers a pleasant cruising experience. It’s capable of reaching impressive speeds suitable for water sports and leisurely cruising alike.
Stylish Design: The sleek, sporty profile of the boat is appealing and modern, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Well-Maintained: Many of these boats have been well taken care of by previous owners, ensuring that you can find units in excellent condition.
Easy Handling: The vessel’s manageable size and good maneuverability make it suitable for both novice and experienced boaters.
Cons
Limited Storage: While the interior is spacious, some users may find that storage options could be more abundant for extended trips.
Fuel Consumption: The twin engine setup, while providing great performance, can lead to higher fuel consumption compared to smaller or single-engine boats.
Age-Related Wear: As a 2005 model, some boats may exhibit signs of wear and tear depending on maintenance and usage, necessitating thorough inspection before purchasing.
Bridge Clearance: The boat may have some limitations regarding bridge clearance, which could restrict navigation in certain waterways.
Pricing: Depending on condition and market factors, some listings may be priced higher than similar boats from other manufacturers, making it important to compare thoroughly.
Maintenance Costs: The complexity of twin engines and onboard systems may lead to increased maintenance costs over time.
Made For
The 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of comfort, style, and performance. Ideal for families and couples, this versatile cruiser is designed for day trips and weekend getaways on the water. Whether you're looking to entertain friends with its spacious cockpit and sunpad or enjoy quiet evenings onboard with its cozy cabin, the 280 Sundancer caters to diverse lifestyles. Its reliable performance and easy handling make it suitable for both seasoned boaters and those new to the marine world. Additionally, with ample storage, a well-equipped galley, and comfortable sleeping accommodations, the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer provides an inviting atmosphere, ensuring memorable experiences on the water for everyone. Whether you're exploring local waterways, enjoying watersports, or simply relaxing under the sun, this boat is an excellent choice for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.
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Contact Todd Turley about 2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
3605 Thomas Dr, Panama City Beach, FL, 32408
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