Advice about the 280

[kevin-in-indy]

For six seasons, my wife and I have trailered our open bow 27 footer and we have finally decided to make the leap to a cruiser. We have targeted the 280 for its illegal, yet manageable beam for trailering. We generally stay in hotels or resorts, but we anticipate occasional overnighting on the new boat. Our typical usage for one season includes: the Gulf of Mexico/ICW, lakes Michigan & Erie, the Ohio & Mississippi rivers, Lake of the Ozarks, Dale Hollow, Barkley and several others. I know that Sea Ray has huge name recognition but I would really like to hear specific input from current and former owners of the 280. Thanks in advance!

 

[jim conroy]

Kevin,

I don't own one, but I had friends that did and they reallly liked the boat.

But I do know of a couple who trailer the 280 regularly from the Milwaukee area all over WI and into Lake Ozark.
They use a weight equallizing hitch and a diesel Excursion.

I also saw a couple trailering a 320 in Michigan, F350 with a fifth wheel hitch and a fold down radar dome.

PS as I recall the 280 has great resale value, so buy one smartley.

Jim

 

[Kastlercreative]

Hi Kevin,

Have not had a 280, but previously a 97' 270, a 02' 260 and now a 290 with plenty of other boats in between...

Not sure if you're looking for a real new boat or not, but one of our favorites was our 97 270, with the 7.4/B3 it had the trailerable beam, so no hassle with permits and pulled pretty easily too...if you're looking for a newer one, make sure you compare to the 06 and 07 290, may be a layout you'll like a little better (no lumpy filler cushions for the vee-centerline access to the rear berth instead of trying to squeeze around the galley) also, I know the 280 we looked at, the dinette was too short to sleep our youngest who was seven at the time, so perhaps something to think about anyway....

good luck!