Discover: New Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Exclusive Review

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer: Few people knew when Sea Ray debuted the first 240 Sundancer in 1975 would transform the weekend scene. Originally known as the SRV 240 Sundancer, the 240 Sundancer (sleeker than other boats of its day but with more cabin room than one would expect on a 24-foot boat) exploded in popularity.

Over its manufacturing run, it underwent several redesigns and modifications before Sea Ray stopped constructing it in 2004. They returned in an all-new shape in 2006, then at last stopped in 2013.

While cuddy cabin boats, in general, dropped in market share as boaters shifted more toward open bow runabouts and reported having less time for weekend as opposed to day boating, the 240 Sundancer stayed popular among its peers until the very end.

Sea Ray no longer makes cuddy cabin boats in this size range; in recent years, its emphasis has changed to models like its 240 Sundeck and 230 SLX.

One of the tiniest, most compact boats on the water to provide complete weekending capabilities for a family of four, this was one item that distinguished the Sea Ray 240 Sundancer from the crowd from the start and kept throughout the manufacturing run.

There was room for everyone to sleep with a big V-berth forward (which turned into a diner) and a second mid-cabin bunk under the helm for the youngsters. Sea Ray is sometimes credited with creating the mid-cabin cruiser design, which ruled for decades in popularity. The boat was furnished with a freshwater sink, a 12-V refrigerator, and a mini-galley with an alcohol or electric stove.

Furthermore, rare on 24-foot cuddy cabins and express-style boats, the 240 Sundancer also included a completely enclosed head, albeit somewhat on the small side.

The 240 Sundancer’s athletic looks and performance were also important. Although this naturally changed over the model’s duration, it featured smoother lines from the beginning than the boxy, angular boats of the mid-1970s.

It also had more power than several of its rivals. Although many older used boats have been repowered and other stern drive combinations are available, you will most often find a MerCruiser or comparable motor producing in the 260-to-320-hp range.

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Review

The Sea Ray 240 Sundancer is designed as a family-friendly cruiser, perfect for weekend trips and watersports. Its compact size makes it trailerable, yet it doesn’t skimp on amenities.

With comfortable sleeping arrangements for four and ample seating for six, it’s a boat that caters to both relaxation and adventure. The build quality is commendable, featuring durable stainless steel fittings and well-finished fiberglass.

Once more, we should note that the manufacturing run of this type was so protracted that the many boats for sale would show some significant variations. Generally speaking, though, 240 Sundancers will include a small galley space, a forward cabin with a V-berth and convertible dinette forward, a tiny enclosed head compartment, and a mid-cabin bunk.

Aft of the windshield, the helm deck and cockpit spaces are open and contain several seating arrangements, including helm and passenger seating, aft-facing seating behind the helm, and forward-facing seating at the transom. A cockpit dinette table will also be available on many models.

While more recent versions have a walkthrough transom with an integrated swim platform, the original Sundancers featured a full transom with a Bolt-on swim platform aft. Another change you’ll notice throughout the years is bow access; on older models, the side deck encircled by a rail was somewhat small.

Younger models include a sliding cabin door with steps sculpted into the base and a swing-open windshield. One could open the windshield and then close the door to step up and over onto the bow along the boat’s centerline.

Shopping one boat against another also exposes an incredibly large range of canvas choices. While most will have convertible Bimini tops to shade the cockpit, other boats may not have a Bimini since canvas has a limited lifetime and needs regular repair.

These are readily created and replaceable, though. Full canvas enclosures were also popular, and on many more recent versions, it would not be unusual to find biminis with side drop curtains. The way past owners maintained and refitted the boat will determine just what you find.

What’s New

Reflecting novel design ideas from Sea Ray’s team, the 240 Sundancer’s revised hull and deck highlight More seats provided by this type than by its predecessor improves social interaction and comfort on board.

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Specs

• Length Overall: 26 ft 6 in (8.08 m)
• Beam: 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m)
• Weight: Approximately 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg)
• Fuel Capacity: 75 gallons (283 liters)
• Water Capacity: 20 gallons (76 liters)
• Engine Options: Standard 260-hp 5.0L MPI Bravo III MCM; optional engines up to 320 hp

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Boat Speed

The 240 Sundancer runs dependably with a standard 260-hp 5.0-liter MPI Bravo III MCM engine. Optional engines up to 320 hp give those looking for more power an additional boost for watersports aficionados.

Updates

The most noteworthy alteration is the replacement of the former port bench with two bistro-style seats and a swing-out table, greatly improving the social environment on deck and making it more fit for events.

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Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Features

The Sea RSundancer’s main advantage is its creative layout, which allows room for four to sleep. Many boaters also see the liliSundancer’s speedy performance and beautiful looks as strengths.

The availability of this model also helps. On the secondhand boat market, the amazing popularity and great volume of construction imply that there is always a wide range of hundreds of 240 Sundancers of many ages and price points.

On the con side, many of the newest 240 Sundancers you may hope to come across will be significantly older; some will be over ten years old.

There will be plenty of worn-out soft goods, corrosion problems for boats operating in salt water, and great variance in the state of power, electrical, and plumbing systems. Low-priced boats with plenty of years on them could require major refitting and/or repairs.

Key Features

1. Spacious Cockpit: The cockpit offers generous seating, including a helm seat with an attached companion seat, two port-side seats with a swing-out table, and a transom bench.
2. Comfortable Accommodations: Below the deck, there’s a forward V-berth that converts to a lounge and a mid-cabin with a double berth, providing sleeping space for four.
3. Fully Equipped Galley: The galley has a sink, refrigerator, microwave, and optional stove, ensuring meal preparation is a breeze.
4. Enclosed Head: A fully enclosed head features a shower, vanity, and sink, adding to the onboard comfort.

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Interior

The cabin is deliberately built to enhance comfort and spaciousness. The forward V-berth functions both as a dining area during the day and as a sleeping place at night.

Families or small parties might find the mid-cabin appropriate since it provides more sleeping areas. Strategically placing plenty of storage spaces helps arrange personal belongings and clear the path.

Technology

Sea Ray combines contemporary technologies to improve boat rides. The helm guarantees simplicity of operation by means of its simple controls and optional navigation systems.

Audio systems are among the entertainment choices that one might add to keep visitors occupied all through the trip.

Comfort

The 240 Sundancer first concerns comfort. The premium materials used to upholster the chairs give both a soft feel and durability. While the enclosed head offers a degree of comfort not usually found in boats of this size, the cabin’s ventilation system guarantees a fresh environment.

Storage

There are plenty of storage options, including sections meant to house tools, personal belongings, and supplies safely. The careful positioning of storage spaces guarantees that the living rooms stay useful and clutter-free.

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Exterior

The 240 Sundancer’s clean lines and elegant profile help define its sleek, modern exterior. The swim platform at the stern is perfect for swimming and watersports, offering simple access to the sea.

Apart from guaranteeing endurance, stainless steel hardware enhances the visual attractiveness of the boat.

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Performance

On the water, the 240 Sundancer delivers a smooth and stable ride. The hull design allows for quick planning, making it suitable for watersports. The responsive steering and throttle ensure that captains of all experience levels can navigate with confidence.

Particularly considering the lengthy run this model enjoyed and the fact that many older boats still in use today will have been repowered, there will be great variety in the performance of Sea Ray 240 Sundancers seen on the used boat market.

Several will have been repowered several times. The stern drives and propping also vary significantly. That said, remember that most boats constructed after the mid-’80s will feature Mercury Marine power systems because Brunswick Corporation, the owner of Mercury Marine, purchased Sea Ray in 1986.

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Turning 2700 to 3000 rpm, the 240 Sundancer would generally have a most efficient cruising speed in the low 20s range. After turning a few thousand extra revolutions, a fast cruise would be in the upper 20s or maybe 30 or so mph.

Running at wide-open throttle allows one to realistically aim for a top speed of forty-plus or less a couple of mph. Remember, though, that among the several Sea Ray 240 Sundancers on the old boat market, there will be a broad range in cruise and top-end speeds.

Some later vehicles with over 300 hp and Bravo Three drives could cruise in the mid-30s and push close to the 50-mph threshold.

Safety

Non-slip decking, strong railings, and a well-designed helm for best visibility are safety elements. The boat’s building satisfies strict safety criteria, so giving people on board piece of mind.

Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Price

The price of a Sea Ray 240 Sundancer varies depending on the model year, condition, and included features. Recent advertisements show prices for older models ranging from about $10,000.

Verdict

The Sea Ray 240 Sundancer shows that comfort or ability does not always follow size. For seasoned boaters seeking something better without sacrificing luxury, this is a superb “starter cruiser” or scaled alternative.

Why Did You Choose It?

• Simple enough for first-time boaters.
• Enough of comfort for weekend travel.
• Well constructed with high-quality fittings.
• Easy layout for sleeping or resting.
• Competitive cost in its class.

Is it then the yacht for you? The 240 Sundancer makes a strong argument if you’re looking for something that combines utility with a little luxury. Though not the most beautiful boat in the marina, it could be the most useful and enjoyable.

Boating is more than just cabin size or horsepower. It’s about making memories—that could be an afternoon on the lake or a weekend anchored at your preferred marina.

Just enough of everything—comfort, performance, elegance, and fun—the Sea Ray 240 Sundancer offers. It is charming in part because it does not aim to be a boat.

This one should be first on your list if you fall into the 24–27-foot cruiser category of shoppers.

FAQs: People Also Ask About Sea Ray 240 Sundancer

Video Discovery: Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Is A Perfect First Boat