• Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht docked, named Another Toy, Panama City Beach, FL. - 1The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht docked, named Another Toy, Panama City Beach, FL. - 1
  • Slide: The Image of Bow deck of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht with anchor and hatches. - 2The Image of Bow deck of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht with anchor and hatches. - 2
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer helm with navigation equipment and wooden steering wheel. - 3The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer helm with navigation equipment and wooden steering wheel. - 3
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht interior with spacious seating and table. - 4The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht interior with spacious seating and table. - 4
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer cockpit with beige seating and striped cushions. - 5The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer cockpit with beige seating and striped cushions. - 5
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht with modern furnishings and circular windows. - 6The Image of Interior of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht with modern furnishings and circular windows. - 6
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer with curved leather seating and round table. - 7The Image of Interior of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer with curved leather seating and round table. - 7
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht kitchen with modern appliances and wooden cabinetry. - 8The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht kitchen with modern appliances and wooden cabinetry. - 8
  • Slide: The Image of Luxurious bedroom interior of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht. - 9The Image of Luxurious bedroom interior of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer yacht. - 9
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer bathroom and bedroom interior. - 10The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer bathroom and bedroom interior. - 10
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower. - 11The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer bathroom with sink, toilet, and shower. - 11
  • Slide: The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer named Another Toy in Panama City Beach, FL, on dry dock. - 12The Image of 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer named Another Toy in Panama City Beach, FL, on dry dock. - 12
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1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer

$129,500

Used

Boat in Panama City, FL 32408 US

builtBuilt in 1997
Year the boat was built
model

500 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x CAT)

Engine type and count
length

50 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

The owner has meticulously maintained this 500 for 20 years. Gulf Coast Marine Service (John Hice) has conducted a "monthly" inspection and report for the past 16 years. All are available on board for review. Maintenance records are also available.

She is powered by twin 3196 CATS. Both have been overhauled. The port has 2955 hours (1850 SMOH). Starboard has 2957 hours (1852 SMOH). Each produces 600 HP for an easy 22k cruise. Top speed 28k.

AC/Heat has been added to the Helm area and added a clear vinyl curtain separating the Helm from the Cockpit.

The Cockpit seating has been redesigned and recovered and a custom-made teak table was installed. The companionway door has also been rebuilt using teak. A Fusion Entertainment Center with four JL Marine Speakers was also added to the cockpit.

The Master State Room was redesigned, and a new Custom Zeno Mattress was installed in 2020.

  • New Batteries Installed (2025)
  • Haul out March 2024 for new bottom paint
  • Fresh bottom job (March 2024)
  • Waxing compound (March 2024)
Nominal Length
50ft
Length Overall
50ft
Beam
15ft
Max Draft
4ft
Drive Up Draft
3.5ft
Deadrise At Transom
17deg
Dry Weight
34500lb
Cruising Speed
22kn
Max Speed
28kn
Cabins
2
Heads
2
Fresh Water Tanks
150gal
Fuel Tanks
550gal
Holding Tanks
68gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
deep-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
CAT
Engine Model
3196
Total Power
600hp
Engine Hours
1850
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1997
Engine 2
Engine Make
CAT
Engine Model
3196
Total Power
600hp
Engine Hours
1852
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1997
Equipment

  • Garmin Chart Plotter/GPS

  • Autopilot

  • Compass

  • Radar

  • Depth sounder

  • VHF Radio

  • Hailer

  • 2 – Flat Screen TVs

  • KVH Satellite Receiver

  • Fusion Entertainment Center

  • 4 JL Cockpit Speakers

  • Ice Maker

  • Westerbeke Generator in sound shield box

  • New 50 Amp Shore Power Cord

  • Glendinning Cablemaster/Shore Power

  • Synchronizer

  • Anchor Windlass

  • Delta 55 Anchor

  • 250’ Anchor Chain

  • FX 37 Fortress anchor

  • Hurley Dinghy Davit

Disclaimer

The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Price History

DateEventPrice
5/1/26Price decreased$129,500(-16.4%)
4/17/26Initial price$154,950

1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer Video Tours

Contact Great Southern Yacht Company

546 Shelter Cove Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, 32459

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from Great Southern Yacht Companyat the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Boattest.com Review

Overview

The SeaRay 500 Sundancer is a luxury express cruiser designed for both comfort and performance. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of its operational features, handling, and onboard accommodations, highlighting the vessel's engineering, ergonomics, and sea trial results.

Engine Access and Mechanical Layout

Engine access on the 500 Sundancer is facilitated by a centrally located hatch in the cockpit deck, featuring a surrounding gutter system that channels water to an overboard drain. Although the engine compartment is somewhat compact, routine checks are manageable. The boat is powered by twin 526 horsepower Cummins MerCruiser diesel engines, each supplied by dual Raycor filters with ball valves enabling filter isolation for maintenance without engine shutdown. Raw water strainers are positioned near the ladder base, with engine start batteries located just behind. Wiring is neatly arranged, and all hoses are double clamped with protective measures against sharp edges. The generator, positioned forward within the compartment, is mounted with its fuel filter secured to a sound shield. Buyers can select from 7, 8, or 11.5 kW genset options.

Exterior Design and Deck Features

Access to the side decks is convenient via T-shaped steps to port and a removable seat cushion to starboard, complemented by strategically placed grab handles along the steps and hardtop to ensure safe movement to the bow. The bow area is notable for its substantial windshield with electrically operated opening vents at the base, enhancing ventilation. Safety is emphasized with 32-inch high rails exceeding standard requirements. Operational controls include foot pedals for the windlass on the port side, dual hatches providing access to the all-chain rode, and a heavy-duty plow anchor secured on a stainless steel davit.

Helm and Bridge Layout

The helm deck offers a generous overhead clearance of 6 feet 6.5 inches and dual opening skylights, creating an airy environment. The helm station is finished in foam marble and equipped with twin 12-inch multifunction displays alongside a MerCruiser VesselView display. Heated air conditioning vents flank the helm, providing comfort in various conditions. Analog gauges are thoughtfully positioned in typically underutilized spaces. The helm seat features a padded thigh-high bolster, while the Zeus joystick is ergonomically placed for ease of use, especially when maneuvering aft. Engine controls are positioned according to customer feedback, though the reviewer noted a lack of armrest support for fine throttle adjustments in rough seas. The Precision Pilot control module is conveniently located adjacent to the controls. Visibility from both seated and standing positions is excellent due to the tall windshields. Both captain and observer benefit from individual seats with flip-up bolsters and armrests.

Performance and Handling

During sea trials, the 500 Sundancer demonstrated responsive and precise handling, particularly at low speeds, aided by the Zeus pod propulsion system. The vessel exhibited a modest bow rise of approximately 10 degrees upon acceleration without impairing forward visibility. Steering required only two turns from lock to lock, producing a comfortable five-degree heel angle. The test boat, weighing 42,791 pounds with fuel and four passengers, achieved a top speed of 34 knots at 3,030 RPM, consuming 59.9 gallons per hour and offering a range of 204 nautical miles. Optimal cruising speed was 26.1 knots at 2,600 RPM with a fuel burn of 41.2 gallons per hour, extending the range to 228 nautical miles. The boat reached planing speed in 9.7 seconds and accelerated through 30 mph in 18 seconds. In challenging conditions with 15-20 mph winds and an outgoing tide, the 500 Sundancer maintained a smooth, dry ride with minimal pounding, effectively deflecting water spray. Trimming the bow up improved dryness at a slight cost to speed. The vessel handled beam seas with surprising comfort and allowed increased speed in head seas. In following seas, the boat tracked straight and maintained bow elevation with trim tabs, even at wide-open throttle. Docking maneuvers were simplified by the Zeus joystick system.

Conclusion

The SeaRay 500 Sundancer combines thoughtful design, solid engineering, and strong performance to deliver a capable and comfortable express cruiser. Its well-considered mechanical layout, ergonomic helm, and responsive handling make it suitable for varied sea conditions and cruising scenarios. The vessel's features and performance characteristics reflect SeaRay's commitment to quality and customer feedback.

Overview from around the web 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer

Customers praise the 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer for its spacious and luxurious design, making it ideal for extended cruising and entertaining

Many highlight the boat's powerful performance combined with smooth handling, offering a comfortable and confident ride. The interior is frequently noted for its quality craftsmanship, ample living space, and well-appointed amenities, including a fully equipped galley and comfortable sleeping quarters. Owners also appreciate the vessel's solid construction and reliability, which contribute to its lasting appeal. Some mention that regular maintenance is key to preserving its performance and appearance, but overall, the 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer is regarded as a classic yacht that delivers both style and functionality on the water.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer is a popular luxury cruiser known for its spacious design and solid performance. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Spacious Interior: The 500 Sundancer offers a roomy cabin with well-appointed living areas, including a full galley, multiple sleeping berths, and a comfortable salon.

Luxurious Amenities: Features such as air conditioning, a full head with shower, and quality finishes make for a comfortable onboard experience.

Strong Performance: Powered by twin engines, it delivers reliable and smooth cruising capabilities suitable for coastal and offshore trips.

Good Storage: Ample storage throughout the boat allows for extended cruising and convenience.

Classic Styling: The sleek design and large windows provide excellent visibility and a timeless look.

Cons

Fuel Consumption: As a larger cruiser with powerful engines, fuel efficiency can be on the higher side, leading to increased operating costs.

Maintenance: Being a model from 1997, some components may require regular upkeep or upgrades to maintain optimal performance.

Maneuverability: Due to its size and weight, docking and tight maneuvering might be challenging for less experienced operators.

Aging Electronics: Original onboard electronics and navigation systems may be outdated, often necessitating modernization for safety and convenience.

Limited Headroom in Certain Areas: Some parts of the cabin may have lower ceilings, which can feel restrictive for taller individuals.

Made For

The 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer is perfect for boating enthusiasts who seek a luxurious and spacious cruiser designed for both entertaining and extended overnight stays. Ideal for families or groups of friends, this yacht offers ample living space, comfortable accommodations, and powerful performance, making it well-suited for weekend getaways, coastal cruising, and waterfront entertaining. Whether you’re an experienced captain or a leisure boater, the 500 Sundancer combines style, comfort, and functionality to enhance your time on the water.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Express Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Sea Ray cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$820.04/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 110,075
Total Payment$196,810.01

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Express Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Sea Ray cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$820.04/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 110,075
Total Payment$196,810.01

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Meet the Broker

Address

546 Shelter Cove Drive
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

Boat Location

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Contact Great Southern Yacht Company about 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer

546 Shelter Cove Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, FL, 32459

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from Great Southern Yacht Companyat the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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