Searay Boats: Are They Worth The Hype?

Sea Ray boats are one of the most well-known brands in the industry. They have been producing boats for over 60 years and are considered a good option for those in the market for a new boat. Sea Ray boats are known for their sleek and stylish design, sun pads, swim platforms, dining tables, and luxury helm. The boats are also reliable, comfortable, and durable, lasting over a decade with proper care and routine inspections. The brand has a strong reputation for making diverse lines of quality sport boats, with prices ranging from $40,000 to $150,000. Sea Ray boats are a good choice for those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and durable vessel.

Sea Ray's reputation and history

Sea Ray boats have been in operation for over half a century and are considered upper-mid-tier boats. The company was founded in 1959 by Cornelius Nathaniel Ray (aka C.N. Ray) in Oxford, Michigan, and was originally called Ray Industries. It was one of the first boat manufacturers to use fibreglass in constructing pleasure boats.

In 1972, Ray expanded the business and opened a plant in Merritt Island, Florida. In 1986, the company was purchased by the Brunswick Corporation, which is now one of the largest recreational marine companies in the world.

Sea Ray has a strong reputation for making diverse lines of quality sports boats, bowriders, deck boats, and various other lines from 18 to 65 feet. They are also known for their consistent quality and stylish designs.

Sea Ray boats are generally reliable, and most owners feel that they put a little more into the construction as they cost a little more than most mid-tier boats. The company has a reputation to uphold due to its long history in the marine market.

Sea Ray boats are also durable. Although they have been phasing out their larger luxury yachts, they still focus on quality construction across their other lines. Their fibreglass boats tend to last a long time, and there are many older Sea Ray models still performing well on the water.

Sea Ray boats are also known for their sleek and stylish design, which includes features such as sun pads, swim platforms, dining tables, and a luxury helm. They are comfortable, manoeuvrable, and responsive when operating in tight quarters such as marinas.

The company has won numerous awards for its boats, including the NMMA Innovation Award and the Boat of the Year Award. Their boats are also frequently featured in boating magazines and industry events.

The pros and cons of owning a Sea Ray

Sea Ray boats are highly popular and have been in operation for over half a century. They are known for their sleek design, high-quality craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. They are also one of the most well-known brands of powerboats on the market and are considered a good option for first-time boat buyers. Here is a list of pros and cons to consider when thinking about purchasing a Sea Ray boat:

Pros:

• Reliability: Sea Ray boats are very reliable, especially when it comes to navigating tight spaces such as marinas. Their hull design is highly reliable and, when paired with ample power, ensures a smooth ride.
• Durability: Sea Ray boats are known for their durability and can last over a decade with proper care and maintenance. They are constructed with high-quality materials and are considered one of the best in the mid-tier class in terms of durability.
• Comfort: Sea Ray boats offer a comfortable design with features such as sun pads, swim platforms, dining tables, and a luxury helm.
• Versatility: Sea Ray boats can be used in both saltwater and freshwater environments and are suitable for inshore and offshore boating. They are also versatile in terms of usage, being ideal for families, entertainment, and watersports such as skiing and wakeboarding.
• Reputation: Sea Ray has a strong reputation in the boating industry and is known for its stylish and functional designs. They have won numerous awards, including the NMMA Innovation Award and the Boat of the Year Award, and are frequently featured in boating magazines and industry events.
• Customisation: Sea Ray offers a wide range of customisation options, allowing buyers to select the colour, propulsion, accessories, and more.

Cons:

• Price: Sea Ray boats can be expensive, with new models ranging from $40,000 to $150,000, or even over a million dollars.
• Maintenance: While Sea Ray boats are durable, they require routine inspections and maintenance to ensure their longevity. This includes routine inspections and maintenance, as well as rinsing the boat after each saltwater trip and flushing the engine.
• Fishing: While Sea Ray boats can be used for fishing, some models may not be ideal due to space constraints. Anglers also risk damaging the ample seating with sharp hooks.
• Engine Power: Some owners feel that the engines may be underpowered, especially in the larger models, which could be a result of keeping the price down.
• Resale Value: While Sea Ray boats do hold their value reasonably well, the depreciation rate can vary depending on the model and year. For example, a 2015 Sundancer 310 had a depreciation value of 36%, while a 2015 210 SLX luxury sport boat had a depreciation value of 24%.
• Customer Service: Some boaters have reported issues with customer service, which could be a factor to consider when purchasing a Sea Ray boat.

Overall, Sea Ray boats are a good option for those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and durable vessel. They offer a range of features and customisation options that make them suitable for various activities and environments. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the high price point and the need for regular maintenance.

The cost of a Sea Ray

Sea Ray boats are considered upper mid-tier boats, and prices can vary depending on the model, year, and condition. Generally, Sea Ray boats can range in price from $10,000 to $150,000, with some pre-owned yachts priced at over $1 million.

For example, the 2020 Sea Ray SPX 210 OB, perfect for adventurous boaters, is listed for sale at $46,605. If you're looking to purchase a Sea Ray model in this price range, you can expect to pay a monthly instalment of around $300.

Sea Ray offers a range of boat series, including the SPX series of runabouts, the SDX series of larger deck boats, the SLX series of luxury cruisers, and the Sundancer series of cruisers designed for distance and overnight journeys. The prices of these boats vary depending on the specific model, features, and other factors.

When considering the cost of a Sea Ray boat, it is important to factor in additional expenses such as routine inspections, maintenance, and winterization services. These services can help extend the life of your boat and ensure its reliability. Additionally, if you are new to boating, it is recommended to hire an accredited marine surveyor, which can cost around $300, to inspect and evaluate the boat before purchase.

The maintenance of a Sea Ray

Sea Ray boats are known for their meticulous craftsmanship, inspired design, effortless performance, and elevated experiences. They are a good investment, with a price range of $40,000 to $150,000, and can last over a decade with proper care. Routine inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your Sea Ray in great shape. Here are some detailed maintenance tips to keep your Sea Ray boat in top-notch condition:

• Bond with your dealer's service team: It is essential to cultivate a good relationship with your dealer's service team as they will help you maintain your boat. Sea Ray only sells parts to authorized dealers, so they are your go-to source for obtaining required parts quickly.
• Choose the right cleaning products: Avoid using harsh and abrasive cleaning products on your boat's gel coat and vinyl. Instead, opt for mild soaps and soft-bristle brushes, which are sufficient for most cleaning jobs. For stainless steel components, Super Stainless is recommended as it cleans well and leaves a protective barrier.
• Rinse after saltwater use: Using a boat in saltwater requires special care due to its corrosive nature. Always rinse your boat and trailer with a garden hose after saltwater use and avoid using a high-pressure washer, which can cause damage.
• Allow proper drying time: After cleaning your boat, give it time to dry completely before covering it. Covering a wet boat can trap moisture inside, leading to various problems.
• Inspect caulking seals: Periodically inspect the caulking seals between components. If you notice any drying, cracking, or gaps, have them repaired immediately to maintain the integrity of your boat.
• Clean hidden areas: Don't forget to clean areas that are not easily visible, such as in between cushions and underneath surfaces. This helps ensure that your boat is thoroughly cleaned and maintained.
• Maintain your Mercury or MerCruiser engine: Refer to your owner's manual for maintenance schedules and work with your dealer to arrange a maintenance schedule. Before using your boat, perform an inspection and check the oil level. Additionally, follow the manual's recommendations for minimum gas octane, and treat the fuel with a stabilizer during periods of inactivity.
• Flush your outboard with freshwater: After each use, flush your outboard with freshwater, especially if you've been in saltwater. This helps keep the cooling system clear and prevents the buildup of minerals and particulate matter.
• Wash and wax your outboard regularly: Washing and waxing your outboard engine is important for both appearance and resale value. It keeps your engine looking its best and protects it from weathering.
• Change the oil regularly: Have the outboard engine's oil changed according to the maintenance schedule. This is crucial as outboards operate at high RPM and require higher oil viscosity levels, which can deplete over time.
• Utilize the Sea Ray Owner's Club resources: The Sea Ray Owner's Club website offers a wealth of information on boat cleaning and maintenance. It provides manufacturer recommendations and guides, such as the Mobern vinyl care and cleaning guide, to help you properly care for your boat.

Sea Ray's competition

Sea Ray boats are considered a good purchase, with a reputation for quality, luxury, and class. They are priced near the top of the market compared to other similar boats. They are known for their meticulous craftsmanship, inspired design, effortless performance, and elevated experiences.

Competition

Sea Ray boats face competition from various other boat manufacturers in the market. Some of the key competitors include:

• Chaparral: Chaparral boats are often compared to Sea Ray, with some considering Chaparral to offer a better fit and finish at a more affordable price point.
• Larson: Larson is another brand that is sometimes mentioned in the same breath as Sea Ray. Owners of both brands have differing opinions, with some preferring the aesthetics and functionality of Larson boats.
• Bayliner: Bayliner is a brand that is often mentioned in the same breath as Sea Ray, as they are both owned by the same parent company, Brunswick Corporation. However, they cater to different markets, with Bayliner positioned as a more affordable option and Sea Ray targeting the premium segment.
• Maxum: Maxum boats are also manufactured by Brunswick Corporation and are considered a step above Bayliner in terms of pricing and features. Some owners have expressed a preference for Maxum over Sea Ray due to better fit and finish, despite Sea Ray being the more expensive option.
• Formula: Formula boats are mentioned as competitors to Sea Ray, particularly the Formula 242 LS model, which is comparable to the Sea Ray Pachanga 22 in terms of performance and quality but comes at a significantly higher price point.
• Cobalt: Cobalt boats, such as the Cobalt 220, are also competitors to Sea Ray. While similarly priced to the Sea Ray Pachanga 22, Cobalt boats are often viewed as less sporty in terms of design and handling.
• Baja: Baja boats, specifically the Baja 22, are competitors to Sea Ray's Pachanga 22 model. While the Baja 22 is an excellent boat, it tends to offer a rougher ride in choppy water conditions compared to the Pachanga 22.

Frequently asked questions