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1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer Sold Boat in Tampa, FL US

$115,000

Used
We will let you know when another 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer is available in Tampa, FL
builtBuilt in 1997
Year the boat was built
model

500 Sundancer

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x Caterpillar 3196TA)

Engine type and count
length

50 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

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1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer
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Price$115,000$115,000$119,500$119,500$120,000$109,999
LocationTampaDaniaDaytona BeachRuskinSaint PetersburgFort Myers
Nominal Length50'38'44'47'35'42'
Draft4'-----
Engine MakeCaterpillar 3196TAVolvo PentaCaterpillarPerkinsCrusaderVolvo
Total Engine Power660 hp420 hp375 hp240 hp385 hp310 hp
Days on Market2969153233254
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Other 1997 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer For Sale in Florida, United States

Nominal Length
50ft
Length Overall
50ft
Beam
15ft
Max Draft
4ft
Holding Tanks
68gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
Caterpillar 3196TA
Engine Model
Caterpillar 3196TA
Total Power
660hp
Engine Hours
55
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1996
Engine 2
Engine Make
Caterpillar 3196TA
Engine Model
Caterpillar 3196TA
Total Power
660hp
Engine Hours
55
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
1996

The distinctive Sea Ray 500 Sundancer mid-cabin combines impeccable lines, luxurious comfort, and unconditional seaworthiness. The 500 Sundancer is designed for serious cruising in luxurious comfort. At the helm station, an adjustable captain's chair faces a wrap-around instrument console. Adjacent to the swivel helm seat is a large padded bench. The large, open cockpit provides a wet bar for refreshments, comfortable wraparound seating for eight, and a custom-engineered digital cassette stereo system with four speakers and cockpit remote control. Down four steps, the salon features a plush circular sofa with a convertible cocktail table - ottoman which can be raised to form a convenient dining table. An advanced stereo system, featuring cassette and compact disc, is acoustically matched to the interior to provide custom-equalized sound. A custom-built breakfast counter with padded bar stools separates the salon from a fully appointed walk-in galley with refrigerator - freezer, three-burner cooktop, and microwave. Portside, across from the galley, the guest stateroom includes a double bed with upper berth, cedar hanging locker, and full head with vanity and shower. Forward, a comfortable settee and a queen-size bed with custom designed sheets and bedspread grace the master stateroom. Cedar-lined hanging lockers with mirrored doors and a large mirrored dresser are included. The en-suite master head has a ceramic tile floor, VacuFlush head, vanity, and shower with a built-in seat.

This vessel has a freshly overhauled starboard engine with 55 hours, new electronics in 2008 and 2015. Knot again has the preferred Caterpillar 3196 TA engines 660hp. See all the Comments & Updates. This has been a well loved yacht for the last 11 years by the current owner. 

Contact

Tampa, FL

Sea Ray 500 Sundancer: BoatTEST Review

Reviewed by Jeff Hammond

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.

Rating: 4.3 out of 5

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 Motor Yacht 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 97,750
Total Payment$174,773.37
Monthly payment
$728.22/mo

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 Motor Yacht 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.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 97,750
Total Payment$174,773.37
Monthly payment
$728.22/mo

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