Sea Ray 230 Sundancer Review: Features, Performance and Tech Specs

The hugely popular Sea Ray’s Sundancer 230 is the epitome of a racy, fun sports cruiser. The traditional V-shape hull allows for a surprisingly expansive interior layout, making this an ideal weekender able to accommodate up to four people in comfort. We’re talking a mid-stateroom, a lounge area that converts to accommodation for two, a well-designed galley (you’ll find models with cherry or maple wood finishings), and a small yet fully functional head with full fiberglass shower. 

The 230 Sundancer ticks a lot of boxes, from its sleek, sporty appearance to its ease of handling, and its suite of home comforts. And you get a whole lot for your money these days buying on the used market. 

The 230 Sundancer had its heyday in the mid-to late ‘90s and production continued through to the late noughties. Yet today it manages to stand tall compared to some newer models thanks to its speed, forward-thinking design, and sheer versatility. 

A sporty personality and impressive interior space for its size characterize the Sea Ray 230 Sundancer. Rightboat seller photo.

Sea Ray 230 Sundancer Key Features

The 230 Sundancer is the quintessential weekend sports boat, geared up for a range of activities. The integrated swim platform is a nice touch without compromising on-deck space, while the U-shaped seating and table located on the starboard side—which can be converted into a sunbathing area—offer uninterrupted water views. Inside, the space is well-utilized with everything you could need for a weekend away from the complete galley, to the head and separate cabin with large berth. Look for models equipped with the ‘Overnight Package’ that include air conditioning, shore power, and water heater among other useful additions. 

The cockpit has been well designed to allow the skipper to interact with passengers thanks to the two-person bench as well as proximity to the portside lounger, while the console dash panel and SmartCraft instrumentation offer built-in diagnostics, as well as a long list of equipment including Navman chart plotter system on some models. 

Sea Ray 230 Sundancer cabin and interior. York Marina photo. 

Sea Ray 230 Sundancer Performance 

There are many model versions of the 230 Sundancer on the used market equipped with either Mercruiser or Yanmar engines. The Mercruiser 350 Magnum MPI Bravo III is a popular option and can produce 300hp and top speeds of 40 knots, whereas the Mercruiser 4.3 V6 Alpha One still offers a respectable cruising speed of 25 knots and max speed of 35 knots. 

Docking is made easier thanks to the bow thruster, and 230 Sundancer owners report on its ease of handling, comfortable ride for passengers, and its general ease of maintenance. Some say its high center of gravity may affect trim, which should be considered in a sea trial.

Sea Ray 230 Sundancer. York Marina photo. 

Sea Ray 230 Sundancer - Why Buy It

• Sporty, fun pocket sports cruiser with a functional layout and integrated swim platform
• Two separate cabins accommodating four for overnight or weekend trips
• Well-equipped galley area and head with full shower
• Bow thrusters
• Good cockpit and storage space
• Trailerable
• Expansive bimini or full canopy
• Electric bilge pump
• Powerful inboard engine, options up to 300hp
• Buying used?: As a relatively small cruiser, a sea trial to get a feel for the 230 is important. For other tips when buying used, read our Boat Inspection Checklist 

Cockpit and seating of Sea Ray 230 Sundancer. York Marina photo. 

Sea Ray 230 Sundancer Technical Specifications

• Length: 23”
• Beam: 6”7’
• Max people capacity: 8
• Max horsepower: 220hp
• Fuel capacity: 53 gallons
• Fuel type: Gas/petrol
• Deadrise at transom: 18 degrees
• Approx weight with standard engine: 3500 lbs.
• Material: Fiberglass
• Steering type: Hydraulic
• Hull shape: Modified V

Check out all the Sea Ray boats and the Sea Ray Sundancers.