Questions about 40' Sedan Bridge

TechDoc

Member
Jun 10, 2016
59
San Diego
Boat Info
2005 390 Motor Yacht
Engines
Twin 480CE Diesel
Hello all,

I am a new poster, and hopefully a Sea Ray owner very soon. I am looking at the 40' sedan bridge model, ideally 2000 - 2002 model year, with diesel engines.

After doing a fair amount of online research, I have a few questions that I hope someone can help with:

1. How much of a problem is the balsa core moisture/rot issue? Is this a widespread issue? Are certain years or configurations more susceptible? Is there something I can look for while searching that I should steer clear from?

2. How much does a comprehensive survey that would detect hull issues like balsa moisture/rot, as well as a comprehensive review of the engines, drives and auxiliary systems typically cost?

3. Am I crazy to be considering a boat that may be 14-16 years old as my first big boat purchase?

4. Am I crazy to think that we can do some casual fishing and diving from the open area at the stern?

5. Can I comfortably carry a small dinghy/tender on the standard swim shelf? Any recommendations in regards to a good dinghy (carry at least 4 adults) and a compatible mounting system?

Thanks in advance!
 
Welcome! I can't say for sure on the sedan models but the Sundancer models in this age range are very, very susceptible to the core rot issue on the deck and swim platforms. During my shopping last year I came to realize the boats I was looking at either 1.) Had rot that had been repaired or 2.) Had rot that was not yet repaired. A dry boat in this age range would be rare in my area. And properly repairing a damaged deck can be very expensive.

Survey cost can be rather variable by region. $15-20 a foot might be a decent guess at where you'll end up. Worth every penny if you get a good surveyor.

My first "big boat" is a 1999. My opinion is that hours and condition mean a lot more than age. There are plenty of early 2000 boats out there with 500 hours on the engines and look practically brand new. If taken care of I think early 2000's is a great place to be from a styling and cost standpoint. My next boat will be a bit bigger but probably not a whole lot newer since I see a lot of value in this age range for the type of boating I do.

I'm assuming your platform will easily be able to carry a dinghy but others here will know more about that.

Good luck with your shopping and enjoy!
 
Last edited:
Welcome to the forum. I have owned my 400DB for 2 1/2 years. We had it surveyed before we bought it. There were no moisture issue problems. The boat was 17 years old at the time. I know several 400's have sold in the past year, and haven't heard of anyone complaining about moisture. My decks and swim platform are solid (20 year old boat).
I put a 11' dinghy on weaver davits on my swim platform. No problems. The problem I see with the swim platform is SeaRay didn't make it the full width of the transom. Also it sits low, so you are stepping down to get onto the boat. I built a wooden step for my wife.
As for the purchase of an older boat, if the boat has been cared for you should have no worries. Also for your first big boat, it will cost a lot less than newer ones. This won't be your last big boat!
The boat comes with 2 rod holders on the transom. If you want to fish you certainly can. We don't because I don't want the mess on the boat. I have been diving off my boat. I wouldn't put the extra diving weight on the swim ladder. Take off your gear in the water and hand it up.
Also, when hiring a surveyor, if they don't do engines(most don't)hire an engine surveyor as well. Sorry it can get pricey.
One last bit od advice. Get one with diesels. And be sure to get the 350hp ones.
 
Hello all,

I am a new poster, and hopefully a Sea Ray owner very soon. I am looking at the 40' sedan bridge model, ideally 2000 - 2002 model year, with diesel engines.

After doing a fair amount of online research, I have a few questions that I hope someone can help with:

1. How much of a problem is the balsa core moisture/rot issue? Is this a widespread issue? Are certain years or configurations more susceptible? Is there something I can look for while searching that I should steer clear from?

2. How much does a comprehensive survey that would detect hull issues like balsa moisture/rot, as well as a comprehensive review of the engines, drives and auxiliary systems typically cost?

3. Am I crazy to be considering a boat that may be 14-16 years old as my first big boat purchase?

4. Am I crazy to think that we can do some casual fishing and diving from the open area at the stern?

5. Can I comfortably carry a small dinghy/tender on the standard swim shelf? Any recommendations in regards to a good dinghy (carry at least 4 adults) and a compatible mounting system?

Thanks in advance!
If you are really interested, send me a PM. I have a friend that is getting ready to list her 400DB that is great. Diesels, hydraulic swim platform and fresh water. It would be sad for me to see her sell it but it may as well go to someone who gets the brand.
 
Thank you all for the quick replies and good information. I am between airplanes, flying home, and will post a few follow up questions and PM humph regarding his friend's boat, when I get home.

Thanks again!


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