1999 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer Boat in Spring Lake, MI 49456 US
Built in 1999
500 Sundancer
2 Engines (2x Caterpillar)
50 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
This 1999 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer is an exceptionally well-cared-for example with a strong ownership history and 100% freshwater use under the current owner. The current owner has enjoyed the boat for the past 10 years and has maintained and upgraded her with a focus on comfort, functionality, and long-term ownership.
Powered by twin Caterpillar 3196 diesel engines rated at 660 HP each and paired with V-drive propulsion, the 500 Sundancer offers the substantial construction, spacious accommodations, and cruising capability that made this model one of Sea Ray's most recognizable large express cruisers. The engine compartment provides excellent access around the machinery, and the vessel is equipped with hydraulic steering and dripless shaft seals.
Throughout the current owner's ownership, significant upgrades have been completed including a hydraulic swim platform, custom exterior SeaDek flooring, custom interior carpeting, updated refrigeration and icemakers, upgraded JBL audio, underwater lighting, batteries, and more.
100% Freshwater Use Under Current Ownership
Current Owner for the Past 10 Years
Hydraulic Swim Platform
Custom Exterior SeaDek Flooring
Custom Interior Carpet
Refrigerator with Icemaker
U-Line Icemaker
Upgraded JBL Amplifiers
Upgraded JBL Speakers with LED Lighting
Underwater Lights
Four Air Conditioning / Heating Units
Two TVs
New Batteries
Spare Propeller Set
Spare Propeller Shaft
Hull Moisture Remediation Completed
Fully Enclosed Canvas Package
Anchor Windlass
Autopilot
Radar
PROPULSION & MECHANICAL
Twin Caterpillar 3196 Diesel Engines
660 HP Each / 1,320 Combined HP
V-Drive Propulsion
Hydraulic Steering
Stainless Steel Propeller Shafts
Dripless Shaft Packing Glands
Four-Blade Nibral Propellers
Spare Set of Propellers Stored Aboard
Spare Propeller Shaft Stored Aboard
Large Engine Compartment with Excellent Machinery Access
Westerbeke Diesel Generator
NAVIGATION & ELECTRONICS
Raymarine C120 GPS / Chartplotter
Furuno Radar
Raymarine ST6001 Autopilot
Raymarine Speed / Depth / Temperature Instrumentation
Uniden VHF Radio
Remote Searchlight
Electric Windshield Vent
Navigation Lights
COCKPIT & EXTERIOR
Hydraulic Swim Platform
Custom SeaDek Flooring
Fully Enclosed Canvas
Cockpit Wet Bar
U-Line Icemaker
Stainless Steel Bow Rail
Anchor Roller
Danforth-Style Anchor
Chain Rode
Progress Electric Windlass
Electric Shore Power Cord Retrieval System
Trim Tabs
INTERIOR & GALLEY
Custom Interior Carpet
Corian Galley Countertops
Molded Corian Sink
GE Refrigerator / Freezer
Kenyon Three-Burner Electric Cooktop
Sharp Microwave
Washer / Dryer
Two VacuFlush Heads
Freshwater-Flushing Sanitation System
Salon TV
Master Stateroom TV
Yamaha Cinema Sound System
Four Cruisair Air Conditioning / Heating Units
ELECTRICAL & SHIP'S SYSTEMS
12V and 24V DC Electrical Systems
120/240V AC Electrical System
Dual Battery Chargers
Electric Shore Power Cord Retrieval
Digital AC Volt and Amp Monitoring
Freshwater System with Primary and Secondary Pumps
Freshwater Accumulator Tank
120V Hot Water Heater
Automatic Halon Fire Suppression System
High-Water Bilge Alarm System
Multiple Bilge and Sump Pumps
With its freshwater history, long-term ownership, desirable Caterpillar diesel power, extensive owner upgrades, and impressive equipment package, this 500 Sundancer represents an excellent opportunity for someone looking for a proven large express cruiser with the space and amenities to comfortably spend extended time aboard.
The combination of the hydraulic swim platform, custom SeaDek, upgraded audio, full canvas enclosure, four-zone climate control, diesel generator, comprehensive navigation package, spacious two-head interior, and extensive mechanical equipment makes this Sea Ray particularly well suited for Great Lakes cruising and entertaining.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 9/18/26 | Initial price | $209,000 |
Sea Ray 500 Sundancer: BoatTEST 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.
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 1999 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $209,000 | $199,500 | $159,900 | $142,900 | $295,000 | $299,500 |
| Location | Spring Lake | Harrison Township | Bay City | Algonac | New Baltimore | Harrison Township |
| Nominal Length | 50' | 46' | 35' | 40' | 55' | 54' |
| Draft | 4' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Engine Make | Caterpillar | Cummins | Mercruiser | Caterpillar | Caterpillar | Caterpillar |
| Total Engine Power | 640 hp | 450 hp | 375 hp | 350 hp | 640 hp | 660 hp |
| Days on Market | 2 | 381 | 40 | 18 | 15 | 326 |
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Other 1999 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer For Sale in Michigan, United States
Other Sea Ray 500 Sundancer boats for sale in Michigan, United States
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Boat Location
Contact Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales about 1999 Sea Ray 500 Sundancer
24400 Jefferson, St. Clair Shores, MI, 48080
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