Best years for used SR? Are certain models / years more reliable, better made than others?

[MikeFromAtlanticBeach]

Beginning my search for a used SR 28' -32' LOA.

Family cruising boat to sleep 2 adults 2 kids. Dock in Melbourne FL. Mostly inshore. Hope to take it to Bahamas 2x per year.

Looking for best value - least problems (like everyone).

Budget $100-150k +/-

Need twin screw.

Inclined to prefer wider beam width?
I know little about prefered engines and drives.

Any experienced insight, advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Strecker25]

You could get bigger than 32 for that money by going a little older but if you’re trying to stay in that combination size/price range I’d look at the 2004-2008 340 Sundancers. Slightly larger than you mentioned, they’re something like 37’ LOA, but you’ll find them with 8.1S powered V drive which in my opinion is a requirement the way you’ll boat assuming it will be slipped in salt water.

They’re fast, the 8.1’s are good engines, and it can take a decent sea for a 34’ boat.

 

[bobeast]

Something to be wary of. I believe it was 2010? when Sea Ray began using model numbers that reflected LOA (including the swim platform). So a 2009 310 would be equivalent to a 2010 330. I may have the exact years wrong, but you get the idea.

 

[DrPringle]

Get a 340 if that’s the budget way more boat then a 320

 

[dvx216]

You mention your sleeping requirements I would go with a 310 Da. or bigger.

 

[dmorris800]

Agree with Strecker. When you find your boat, I would have the engines very closely looked at / make sure to spend the money on a compression test / check the manifolds. Good luck!

 

[carterchapman]

Mike,

You are in Salt water - correct? A 380/410 Diesel would be my vote...stretch your budget a little.

 

[Skuza]

I'd say early 90's-mid 2000's were the heyday. Lines are still sleek and with the exception of coring issues they were all pretty good imo.