1999 Sea Ray 280 Bow Rider

The 1999 Sea Ray 280 Bow Rider (BR) is a spacious and powerful bowrider designed for comfort, performance, and versatility on the water. Sea Ray is known for building high-quality boats with a focus on luxury and functionality, and the 280 BR is a prime example of this commitment. This model is ideal for families and groups who enjoy a mix of water sports, cruising, and socializing on the water.

General Specifications

• Length Overall (LOA): 28 feet 6 inches
• Beam: 9 feet 6 inches
• Draft: Approximately 3 feet (with the drive down)
• Dry Weight: Around 6,600 pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 100 gallons
• Water Capacity: 24 gallons
• Passenger Capacity: Up to 10-12 passengers

Performance and Engine Options

The 1999 Sea Ray 280 BR was typically powered by twin sterndrive engines, offering robust performance for a variety of boating activities:

• Standard Engines: Twin MerCruiser 5.7L EFI engines, each producing around 260 horsepower
• Optional Engines: Larger engine options were available for enhanced performance, including twin 7.4L MPI engines with around 310 horsepower each.

These engine options provided strong acceleration, good top speeds, and the ability to handle choppy waters, making the boat suitable for both leisurely cruising and water sports.

Features

1. Hull and Design:

   • Construction: The boat features a deep-V hull design, providing stability and smooth handling in various water conditions.
   • Design: Classic Sea Ray styling with a sleek profile, integrated swim platform, and premium gel coat finish.

2. Seating and Layout:

   • Bow Area: Spacious seating with cushioned backrests and storage underneath, providing comfort and relaxation.
   • Cockpit: Features a large U-shaped lounge area with a removable table for dining and socializing.
   • Helm: Well-appointed helm station with comfortable captain’s chair, full instrumentation, and tilt steering.
   • Sun Pad: A large sun pad at the stern for lounging, with easy access to the swim platform.

3. Comfort and Amenities:

   • Head Compartment: Enclosed head with a portable toilet, providing convenience during long days on the water.
   • Wet Bar: Cockpit wet bar with sink and storage for preparing drinks and snacks.
   • Swim Platform: Extended swim platform with a retractable swim ladder, perfect for swimming and water sports.

4. Storage:

   • Under-Seat Storage: Ample storage compartments under the seating areas for gear, life jackets, and other essentials.
   • In-Floor Storage: Large in-floor storage compartment, ideal for stowing water skis, wakeboards, and other large items.
   • Transom Storage: Additional storage at the transom for easy access to frequently used items.

5. Entertainment:

   • Sound System: Marine stereo system with multiple speakers throughout the boat for quality sound.
   • Connectivity: Options for adding modern audio and connectivity features.

6. Bimini Top:

   • Bimini Top: Provides shade and protection from the sun, enhancing comfort during extended outings.

Build Quality and Durability

• Construction: Sea Ray is known for its high-quality construction, using durable materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure longevity and reliability.
• Durability: The 280 BR is built to withstand the demands of recreational boating, with a solid fiberglass hull and corrosion-resistant components.

Versatility

The 1999 Sea Ray 280 BR is designed to be a versatile boat, suitable for a variety of activities, including:

• Cruising: Comfortable for day trips and extended cruises with family and friends.
• Watersports: Powerful enough for watersports like wakeboarding, water skiing, and tubing.
• Entertaining: Spacious and well-equipped for hosting gatherings and entertaining guests on the water.

Summary

The 1999 Sea Ray 280 BR is a well-crafted and versatile bowrider that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and luxury. It’s ideal for families and boating enthusiasts looking for a spacious, reliable, and stylish boat for a variety of on-the-water activities. With its solid build quality, powerful engine options, and thoughtful features, the 280 BR provides a great boating experience. If you're considering a used model, it's recommended to have a marine survey conducted to ensure the boat is in good condition.