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2012 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER Sold Boat in Marblehead, OH US
Built in 2012
280 SUNDANCER
1 Engine (MERC)
28.7 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Other Sea Ray boats for sale in Ohio, United States
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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 2012 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER
Customers praise the 2012 Sea Ray 280 SUNDANCER for its stylish design, comfortable accommodations, and reliable performance
Many highlight the spacious cockpit and well-appointed cabin, making it ideal for weekend getaways or day cruising. Users appreciate the smooth handling and powerful engine options, which provide a confident and enjoyable ride. The boat's quality construction and attention to detail receive frequent compliments, as does the ample storage space and user-friendly layout. Overall, owners find the 280 SUNDANCER to be a versatile and dependable cruiser that balances luxury and practicality on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2012 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer offers a blend of comfort, style, and performance that appeals to many boating enthusiasts. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Spacious Interior: The 280 Sundancer features a well-designed cabin with comfortable sleeping accommodations, a fully equipped galley, and a functional head, making it ideal for weekend getaways.
Stylish Design: With sleek lines and a modern profile, the boat stands out visually both on and off the water.
Performance: Equipped with reliable twin engines, the boat delivers smooth handling and good speed, suitable for cruising and watersports.
Ample Storage: Thoughtfully placed storage compartments help keep the cabin and cockpit organized.
Comfortable Cockpit: The cockpit area provides plenty of seating and is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing.
Quality Build: Sea Ray is known for solid construction and attention to detail, and this model maintains that reputation.
Cons
Limited Headroom: While the cabin is cozy, taller individuals may find the headroom somewhat restrictive.
Fuel Consumption: With twin engines, fuel efficiency is moderate, which might be a consideration for longer trips.
Size Constraints: At 28 feet, the boat balances maneuverability and space, but it may feel cramped for larger groups during extended stays.
Maintenance Costs: As with many boats of this size and class, upkeep and maintenance can be relatively costly.
Made For
The 2012 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 model offers spacious accommodations, a well-appointed cabin, and reliable performance. Whether you’re interested in relaxing cruises, watersports, or entertaining guests, the 280 SUNDANCER provides an excellent balance of luxury and functionality for those who want to make the most of their time on the water.
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Marblehead, OH
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