My father-in-law and I are considering the purchase of a 1982 Sea Ray 260
Sundancer. I'm wondering about the build quality of Sea Rays from this time
frame (pre Brunswick) but have not had much success finding any information.
I'd like to know some general history of Sea Ray boats from this era before
we spend the money on a survey. Why waste the money on a survey if the
general consensus is the boats from this time are not worth the effort? Are
there any specific websites that could address this, or do the posters here
have any general comments?

Thanks in advance,
Scott Collins
Newcastle, WA

In 1982, Sea Ray was the second largest builder of pleasure boats. Right behind
Bayliner. The company was owned by the original founder, Connie Ray, until
1986.

I can't find any record of a 260 Sundancer from 1982. There was a 270 built
from 82-88. If the boat has a ten foot beam, it's a 270. Any boats in the 260
series have 8'6" beams.

Sea Ray introduced the mid-cabin configuration about 1982, and that is
technically what separates a "Sundancer"
from an express cruiser.

Sea Ray has always built a decent boat.
Some contemporary detractors will moan,
"They don't build 'em like they used to....."
but by 1982 Sea Ray had been building boats for a little over two decades and
had earned a solid reputation.

That said, a 20 year old boat of *any* brand can be junk, or in good shape.
Depends a lot on how its been maintained.
Your 1982 Sea Ray started off as a pretty good boat, but only a thorough survey
will reveal if it's still worth owning.