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2008 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Sold Boat in Winthrop Harbor, IL US
Built in 2008
280 SUNDANCER
2 Engines (2x MERCRUISER)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER boats for sale in Illinois, United States
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Illinois, United States
2008 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 2008 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
Customers have praised the 2008 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER for its combination of style, comfort, and performance
Many boaters appreciate the sleek design and spacious cockpit, which provides ample seating for entertaining friends and family. The well-appointed interior is often highlighted, featuring a cozy cabin with a full galley, comfortable seating, and a private head, making it perfect for weekend getaways. Performance-wise, the 280 SUNDANCER is lauded for its smooth handling and enjoyable ride, whether cruising along the coast or navigating through serene waters. Its twin engine configuration provides reliable power, enhancing the overall boating experience. Owners also appreciate the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail that Sea Ray is known for, noting the durability of materials and the pleasant aesthetics throughout the boat. The ample storage options and various features, such as the sunpad and swim platform, contribute to its appeal for those who love water sports or simply soaking up the sun. In summary, the 2008 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER receives high marks for its design, comfort, and performance, making it a popular choice among both new and experienced boaters.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2008 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular choice among boating enthusiasts for its balance of performance, comfort, and stylish design. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons associated with this model:
Pros
Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The 280 Sundancer features a well-designed cabin that offers ample space for relaxation. With a functional galley, a comfortable V-berth, and additional sleeping space, it’s ideal for weekend getaways.
Versatile Cockpit: The large cockpit area is great for entertaining, outfitted with comfortable seating, a wet bar, and easy access to the swim platform. This makes it perfect for social gatherings or simply enjoying a day on the water.
Solid Performance: Equipped with twin engines, the 280 Sundancer delivers reliable performance and good handling, ensuring a smooth ride even in choppy waters. Its powerful engine options provide the speed and agility that boaters appreciate.
Stylish Design: The sleek lines and elegant profile of the 280 Sundancer make it aesthetically pleasing. The boat's design reflects Sea Ray's commitment to style, making it stand out in any marina.
Good Build Quality: Sea Ray is known for its durable construction and thoughtful engineering, making the 280 Sundancer a dependable choice for both seasoned boaters and newcomers alike.
Cons
Limited Storage: While the interior is spacious, some users note that storage options can be limited. This can make it challenging to stow larger items or gear for extended trips.
Fuel Consumption: The twin-engine setup, while providing great performance, can result in higher fuel consumption compared to similar-sized boats with a single engine. This is an important consideration for cost-conscious boaters.
Maintenance Costs: Like many high-performance boats, the 280 Sundancer may incur higher maintenance and repair costs. It's essential to factor this into ownership costs.
Weight: The boat's weight can affect trailerability and affect handling in certain conditions, making it somewhat less maneuverable than lighter models.
Limited Draft: For those looking to explore shallow waters, the 280 Sundancer's draft might limit accessibility to some areas.
Made For
The 2008 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER is ideal for boating enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of luxury and performance. This versatile cruiser is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to spend memorable weekends on the water. With ample seating and sleeping accommodations, it caters to those who enjoy day excursions as well as overnight trips. Adventure seekers will also appreciate the 280 SUNDANCER’s smooth cruising capability, making it suitable for both coastal explorations and lake outings. Its powerful engine options ensure a thrilling ride, while its elegant design and thoughtful amenities offer comfort and style for social gatherings or relaxing retreats. Whether you’re an experienced boater or new to the marine lifestyle, the 2008 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER provides a perfect balance of functionality and elegance, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their time on the water.
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Winthrop Harbor, IL
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