I am looking at a New Sea Ray 260 sundancer ?

Question

I am just looking for an unbiased opinion on the quality of the boat.

Answer 1

I usually am "right there" with most of 45 cal's opinions, but, I'll have to say that in my opinion, SeaRay makes the best boat out there in it's class;  Rock solid, high level of finish on interior appointments, cabinetry, wood work, vinyl, etc....proven drive systems, high end electronics, well thought out engine rooms, easy to get at oil filters and other necessary mechanicals...

I like SeaRay:)

Answer 2

I work at a marina which sells 12 brands, Sea Ray included, and we seem to have less problems with them.  Easy to PDI and work on, great design and construction.  Now that they are part of Brunswick Corp., they are only available with Mercruiser Bravo III drives, I would suggest that you buy and install a drive shower, B IIIs have had upper gearcase heat issues.  Here is a link for the drive shower.  Enjoy your new toy!

http://www.driveshowers.com/

Answer 3

When you think about it, most manufacturers use Volvo or Mercruiser drives. So the design and workmanship is the main variable.  I think SeaRay gets a B+ on both.  All boats have minor leaks and equipment that fail under the warranty period, but these are repairable.  It's things like access to the eng. compartment, visibility at the helm, usability of the anchor compartment that are harder to judge.  I recommend that you spend sometime "poking around the boat you choose, and make sure you like it "best"!

Answer 4

If there still using V drive or out drive They have issues>

Straight inboard>If you like them> Haven't seen a Sea Ray that didn't have cabin leaks> So look close around ports> And fittings>

Answer 5

Everyone who has posted to your question essentially is stating that Sea Ray builds a good boat and they are correct. However, not being a Sea Ray owner but instead sitting at the helm of a Chaparral cruiser let me throw something at you...pricing.

Chaparral has dedicated their sales drive to going after the Sea Ray market and has hired many Sea Ray employees. The quality of the Chaparral is equal too if not above theirs. Equipment loaded on each is definitely comparable. Warranty...Chaparral is believed to be the winner here.

Take a look at their 25' or 27' Signature cruiser and the pricing and I do believe you'll be glad you did!

Answer 6

Sea Ray's are a good boat.  They handle well, look good and make a good day cruiser.  

They (boats in general) all seem to have a few problems, regardless of the brand or price.

As important as the brand is the dealer you are purchasing it from, the boat can be the best in the worlds but if the dealer gives you grief for small problems you will not be happy.  So check the dealer out too.

Good Luck and Boat Safe ! !  

Answer 7

Sea Ray  makes a good boat.   Go for it.

All boats have problems, and some more than others.  Sea Ray has a good name and they look great.