2008 or 2009 330 SD

[joeblade]

Hello everyone. I just joined today.

I've been looking into going bigger than I have right now and like the 330 SD from 2008 and 2009. Does anyone have opinions on what options including engine I should be looking at and what I should be avoiding?

I've been seeing both VD and I/O's and really don't have a preference.. any thoughts from current owners of theses?

Thanks for any information you could offer.

 

[Ididntdoit]

nice boats - VD only available with big blocks - in this config it will burn 30-35 GPH at cruise - the upside is better manuverability around the docks and FAR less maintenence than IO's (don't discount this fact) - small blocks with IO's are probably around 25GPH at a slightly higher speed so much better mileage along with quicker time to plane and much more room in the bildge - it all depends what is important to you and what you are doing with the boat

 

[skolbe]

It is a great boat - it is the 320 refined. V-drive versus outdrives is a personal preference.

 

[joeblade]

Thanks for the tips.. less maintenence is a big plus for me. Is the small block configuration with the IO's enough for this boat? I'm under-powered now and wouldn't want that headache again. I'm figuring a family of 5 with coolers full of "stuff" can I get around with plenty of reserve RPM's?

 

[chuck1]

Joe,

Welcome aboard. I think you are looking for a DA (sunDAncer). Sea Ray did not make a 330SD(SunDeck).

 

[Vince_nj1]

Given that you will be using the boat in saltwater, I would opt for V-drives. It will cost you a little more up front and you will burn 10 to 15% more fuel, but your maintenance costs will be lower and your resale will be higher in the end.

With that said, there are some advantages to I/O's. There is considerably more room in the engine compartment. You can trim the drives and get into shallower water, the boat will turn better at high speeds,will run smoother and it will be faster. But after having an old boat with never ending stern drive issues, I wouldn't buy another one unless I was boating in fresh water or had the option to keep the boat on a lift.

 

[joeblade]

you are correct chuck1! sunDAncer it is!!!

Thanks...

 

[joeblade]

vince_nj1... it seems you have the same boat as the 2008 and 2009 330... aside from the drive system any other things I should be looking for (must have options, chronic issues)? how much HP would you recommend if I had the choice?? Thanks for your help.

 

[Vince_nj1]

I bought my boat used and it has just about every available option. The option list can get pretty expensive, but the one option that I like the most is the bow thruster. There are plenty of people that will tell you that you don't need it, but you could make the same argument for electric windows in your car. It is very nice to have.

 

[Carbo]

Joe,

I own a 2008 330 Sundancer with Axius/Skyhook, I/O and the largest engines, 496 Mags with 375 bhp. If you'd like to talk, pm me.
Peter

 

[JV II]

Joe,

I own a 2008 330 Sundancer with Axius/Skyhook, I/O and the largest engines, 496 Mags with 275 bhp. If you'd like to talk, call my cell: ***-***-****, AZ time zone.
Peter

Dude, PM the guy with your phone number and edit your post to take it off. This is a public forum.
I have good news for you. You have 200 more HP than you think.

 

[ziekman@cox.net]

Joe, we added a few things over the last year, but my favorite options from the factory are the kenyon electric grill and the genny. The radar is also a must, if you are crossing the sound or going up to newport or block and get caught in fog. I love my 8.1 horizons with v-drive, as there seems to be little or no maintenance required. We did add a sat tv, hydraulic swim platform, bow thruster, and cockpit tv last year which have all added to our enjoyment. I would be happy to discuss further if you like.

 

[tbirdvet]

Joe,

I own a 2008 330 Sundancer with Axius/Skyhook, I/O and the largest engines, 496 Mags with 275 bhp. If you'd like to talk, call my cell: AZ time zone.
Peter

I believe you mean 375HP.

 

[tbirdvet]

Given that you will be using the boat in saltwater, I would opt for V-drives. It will cost you a little more up front and you will burn 10 to 15% more fuel, but your maintenance costs will be lower and your resale will be higher in the end.

With that said, there are some advantages to I/O's. There is considerably more room in the engine compartment. You can trim the drives and get into shallower water, the boat will turn better at high speeds,will run smoother and it will be faster. But after having an old boat with never ending stern drive issues, I wouldn't buy another one unless I was boating in fresh water or had the option to keep the boat on a lift.

Good summary. I concur.

 

[joeblade]

Thanks Carbo, tbirdvet and ziekman.... still waiting to see what finances are available ... will probably hold off till end of this season.... the Rinker still works for now...