2011 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
$59,900
Boat in Saluda, VA 23149 US
280 Sundancer
1 Engine (MerCruiser)
28.7 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular sport cruiser for family our couple with friends cruising and overnighting.
Boarding from the swim platform into comfortable L-shaped seating and lounging area with the wet bar with 110V grill and sink is on the starboard side behind the helm. The helm and the cockpit are all on one level. The helm is well laid out with everything in reach and a wide helm seat with the backrest can flip forward facing aft so everyone is included in the fun.
Molded in non-skid steps lead safely forward to handle docking ropes or lounging on the forward deck in the sun.
Through the cabin's secure fiberglass door and down a few steps into the well thought out cabin. Full galley with cook top, sink, fridge and microwave is to port. The private head compartment with shower opposite, and the bow seating with cherry table that converts to V-berth sleeping area. In the rear of the cabin is the mid-cabin with lighting a an opening portlight. There is storage throughout the cockpit and cabin with no available space wasted.
The deep V-hull provides a smooth ride in any condition, while the stylish interior promises comfortable overnight stays.
- Standard SmartCraft instrumentation and diagnostics.
- Curved portside L-shaped lounger w/storage below
- Electrically actuated engine hatch.
- Cockpit wet bar with Corian countertop.
- VacuFlush head.
- Wood finish interior cabinets.
- Convertible dinette with dedicated V-berth filler cushion and table storage.
- Full galley with sink, stove, refrigerator, and microwave.
- Integral swim platform with four-step stainless steel ladder.
- Standard full canvas.
- Sea Ray Owners Club membership (available in USA and Canada).
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/7/25 | Initial price | $59,900 |
2011 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 2011 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
Customers praise the 2011 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer for its stylish design, spacious and comfortable cockpit, and smooth handling on the water
Many highlight the well-appointed cabin, which offers ample sleeping accommodations and a functional galley, making it ideal for weekend getaways. Owners appreciate the reliable performance and ease of maneuverability, as well as the quality craftsmanship typical of Sea Ray. Some note that the boat’s size strikes a perfect balance between manageability and onboard comfort, appealing to both novice and experienced boaters alike. Overall, the 280 Sundancer is regarded as a versatile and enjoyable cruiser that delivers great value in its class.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2011 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is a popular mid-sized express cruiser known for its stylish design and comfortable accommodations. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The 280 Sundancer offers a well-designed cabin with sleeping accommodations for up to four people, a functional galley, and a private head, making it ideal for weekend cruising.
Comfort and Style: Sea Ray is known for quality craftsmanship, and the 280 Sundancer features upscale finishes, comfortable seating, and a sleek exterior design.
Performance: Equipped with reliable engines, this model provides good handling and a smooth ride, suitable for coastal cruising and day trips.
Versatile Layout: The cockpit and helm area are spacious and user-friendly, with plenty of seating and storage, enhancing onboard enjoyment.
Good Resale Value: Sea Ray boats tend to maintain their value well due to brand reputation and build quality.
Cons
Limited Cabin Headroom: While comfortable, the cabin headroom is somewhat limited, which may feel cramped for taller individuals.
Fuel Efficiency: Like many boats in this class, fuel consumption can be on the higher side, especially at top speeds.
Maintenance Costs: Being a quality cruiser, upkeep and maintenance can be more costly compared to smaller or less complex boats.
Limited Sleeping Capacity: Accommodations are suitable for a small group, but larger families or groups may find the space restrictive.
Age Considerations: As a 2011 model, some systems and equipment may require updates or upgrades depending on prior care and usage.
Made For
The 2011 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and stylish cruiser that combines comfort, performance, and ease of handling. Ideal for small families, couples, or friends looking to enjoy day trips or weekend getaways on the water, this boat offers spacious accommodations and modern amenities. Whether you're interested in relaxing cruises, entertaining guests, or exploring coastal waters, the 280 Sundancer provides a reliable and enjoyable boating experience for those who value quality craftsmanship and a sleek design.
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Our Baltimore, MD office is located in the heart of Baltimore Harbor at the Baltimore Marine Center. The marine center is a 16-acre facility that offers apartments, office and retail space on Baltimore Harbor, as well as 500 wet slips, indoor Boatel storage, health club, pool and gated parking. The Bluewater Yacht Sales Baltimore yacht brokerage office is an authorized dealer for new Albemarle, Jarrett Bay Boatworks, Jupiter Marine, Novurania, Princess, Regulator & Viking Yachts models.
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Baltimore Marine Center, 2740 Lighthouse Point East, Baltimore, MD, 21224











































