2005 Sea Ray 280 Sundancer

Step aboard and you’ll notice how thoughtfully the helm and companion seating are laid out for long days on the water. The double helm seat with flip-up bolster gives you a clear view running on plane, while your crew can stretch out on the portside lounger and still be part of the conversation. The wide swim platform and transom gate make hopping on and off for a dip effortless, and there’s plenty of room back there to gear up for watersports. Below, the mid-cabin feels surprisingly private, with a door and dedicated lighting, making overnighting more comfortable than you’d expect on a 28-footer. Storage is tucked into every corner, so weekend gear disappears neatly out of sight.

This 280 Sundancer is well-suited to the mix of open stretches and protected waterways you’ll find here. Its twin-engine setup delivers confident handling in afternoon chop while still being nimble enough for narrow channels and busy harbor approaches. The overall length and beam strike a sweet spot: large enough to feel solid and secure when conditions kick up, yet still manageable for short-handed docking at crowded marinas. With comfortable sleeping for a small family and a cockpit that easily converts from cruising to at-anchor lounging, it’s ideal for spontaneous overnights in nearby coves and full days exploring local islands and sandbars.