215EC and wanting to move up questions

H

hd2002hd

Member
Jul 20, 2010
457
St. Louis
Boat Info
1996-Sea Ray 215 Express Cruiser/1996-Sea Ray 330 Sundancer/1998-Sea Ray 400 Sundancer/1996-Sea Rayd
Engines
5.7 Mercruiser/454's/454's w/V drive/120HP
Well, I am wanting to move up to a SeaRay overnighter and I am not sure which model has the options I want or if any of them do. So, I would like some input. I am wanting something in the 29' to 35' range. I would really like something above 10' beam, preferably 11'. Twin engines (at least 5.7's) with a generator, heat and air and sleeps at least 4. I also would like V drives. Not asking for much huh. I would imagine any boat that has those options covered will be available with some of the other "smaller" options such as windlass. I ound a 290 Amberjack that looked really good, but no generator and smaller engines. Any advice is appreciated concerning boat and options. I know there is a lot of experience on this site and those that are more experienced can probably tell what options are a must and which ones are nice to have for this step up.

Thanks
 
Price range? Age?

I think a 1999-2002 310 Sundancer is right in your wheelhouse. Check them out online!

Other options:

If you can afford them, the mid 2000s 320 and 340 are great choices also.

If you are on a budget, check out the 1994-1997 300 Sundancer, and the 1995-1998 330 Sundancer. Great value on these.
 
I was thinking something in the 60's max and was hoping 50's. Age wise I was looking at 1996 to early 2000's. I have noticed a lot of variations out there within these ranges. The 290 Amberjack was a 2002 Amberjack for under $50,000, but no generator or range. It did have 5.7's and the V drive.
 
The 290 AJ is a great choice. This is the smallest Sea Ray that will have V-drives. The Sundancers will give you quite a bit more cabin room, though. I would focus on the 94-97 300, 95-98 330, and 99-02 310. Most of these will have V-drives & Gen. Compare these to the 290 AJ and see which size/style suits you best.
 
How many people will you be overnighting with? That will help direct you toward the appropriate model you seek.

I have a family of 5 and my boat is perfect for my needs right now. My 330 has a decent forward bed and full size mid-cabin. If it will only be you and the misses then a single berth vessel should suffice.
The beam on my boat is 11'6". I have A/C & reverse cycle heat as well as the generator you want. I believe you can find one of these boats in the upper 40's to mid 50's. You will see prices well above that but I believe these people are smoking something funny.

There are also express cruisers versus the cabin cruiser like the Sedan Bridge. These are also personal preference considerations. I recommend that you go and look at the different styles in person with the people you will be spending the most time out with to get a better feel for what you like or dislike about each model.

Happy hunting!!

Note: Here is an example of a 340 DA Repo: http://www.yachtauctions.com/listing.php?vessel=7154
 
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Thanks. It would mostly be the 2 of us, but would like to be capable of sleeping a couple of friends on occasion.
 
I don't know if you do your own maintenance but if you do......the 310 is tight. you better be a small guy or very flexable! haha

An older bigger inboard boat is much better to work on. I know it doesn't seem like something to consider now, but just wait till something goes wrong and you'll be cussing up a storm. Just a thought.
I'm a big guy and have been stuck in the bilge, all you can do is calm down, relax, and have someone pull on your legs like hell!! hahaha
 
I had a 215EC then went to a 270DA, then a 310DA and now a 38.
I agree with the 34' range because of the extra room and layouts for storage, etc.
 
Hi,
I agree with Lee. Your best bet is a 340 SDA. You will not be sorry. It's a lot of bang for the buck and not bad on fuel if you get the 8.1 MPI's.
We love ours. We moved up from a 28' Baha Cruiser with twin Volvo penta inboards and a great boat, but the 340 opened up a whole new world to us. Take the leap. You won't be sorry you did. Lee, great to see you on here. George here from Bodkin Yacht Club.
 
I went from a 215 to a 260 to a 320. Just completely different way to boat. If you want to stay as a couple a 280 to 340 is a nice setup Each has it's pros and cons. If wanting V-Drives a 310, 320, 330 or 340 all fit the bill. We really like our 320. Had it 5 seasons and if I was to move up again it would be 40' plus with diesels. Don't be intimidated by the size. The larger boats are easier to handle once you learn the boat and proper maneuvering in tight quarters.
 
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