Sea Ray 320 Sundancer for Sale

Sea Ray 320 Sundancer Specifications

The specification tells the story of a boat designed around versatility. The 200-gallon fuel capacity and twin sterndrive power deliver enough range for a weekend cruise along the coast, while the shallow draft (2 ft 2 in with drives trimmed up) opens up anchorages and sandbars that deeper-draft boats cannot reach. The 10 ft 8 in beam provides a stable platform at rest and creates enough interior volume for a genuinely functional cabin below.

The mid-cabin layout is the key to the 320 Sundancer’s sleeping capacity. By placing a double berth beneath the cockpit sole — in the space between and aft of the engines — Sea Ray creates a second sleeping area that adds two berths without increasing the boat’s length. The forward V-berth converts to a double, and a dinette conversion provides a third sleeping area. Six sleeping positions in a 32-foot boat is a feat of layout engineering that keeps the 320 Sundancer competitive with boats several feet longer.

Performance & Handling

At speed: The standard twin MerCruiser 6.2L MPI engines (600 hp total) push the 320 Sundancer to approximately 38 knots at wide-open throttle. The optional 8.2L MAG HO upgrade (760 hp total) adds a few knots at the top and improves mid-range acceleration, though the standard engines are more than adequate for the boat’s intended role. Cruising speed sits at a comfortable 22–26 knots, where the twin sterndrives run efficiently and the ride is settled.

Ride quality: The 19-degree deadrise provides a competent ride in moderate conditions — typical coastal and lake cruising where seas run 2–3 feet. The 320 Sundancer is not an offshore passagemaker; it is designed for protected waters, coastal hops, and the kind of conditions encountered in the Great Lakes, the Chesapeake Bay, the Florida Keys, and the Intracoastal Waterway. In its intended environment, the ride is comfortable, predictable, and confidence-inspiring.

Handling: The twin sterndrive configuration is the 320 Sundancer’s handling advantage. Differential thrust from the twin engines provides excellent slow-speed maneuverability for marina work, and the Bravo Three dual-prop drives deliver clean, cavitation-free thrust at all speeds. For owners unfamiliar with sterndrives, the learning curve is modest — twin-engine close-quarters handling is intuitive once the basic principles of differential thrust are understood.

Range: The 200-gallon fuel capacity delivers a cruising range of approximately 180 nautical miles at 24 knots with a 10% reserve. This is sufficient for coastal weekend cruising — a Friday evening departure to a harbor 50 miles away, a Saturday exploring nearby anchorages, and a Sunday return with fuel to spare. For longer passages, the economy cruise at 15–18 knots extends range to approximately 250+ nm.

Interior & Living Aboard

The 320 Sundancer’s cabin is the feature that elevates it from a day boat to a genuine weekend cruiser. The companionway from the cockpit leads below to a surprisingly spacious interior with 6 ft 1 in headroom in the main cabin area. The forward V-berth, with a filler cushion to create a double bed, is the primary sleeping area. A convertible dinette to port provides a second sleeping position, and the mid-cabin beneath the cockpit sole adds a third double berth accessed via the main cabin.

The galley is compact but functional: a single-burner electric stove, a refrigerator (120V with shore power, 12V on the hook), a stainless steel sink with pressurized water, and a microwave. It is not a gourmet kitchen — it is designed for reheating, simple meal prep, and morning coffee. For most weekend cruisers, this is exactly the right level of galley capability: enough to be self-sufficient without the complexity and maintenance of a full marine galley.

The enclosed head compartment includes a marine toilet with electric flush, a vanity with mirror, and a shower. The shower drains to a dedicated sump pump. While the head is compact, it provides genuine privacy and functionality that separates the 320 Sundancer from open-bow sport boats and center consoles that offer only a portable toilet behind a curtain.

On deck, the cockpit is designed for socializing. A U-shaped settee with a removable table creates a dining area for four to six. The wet bar to port includes a sink, refrigerator, and storage for drinks and provisions. A transom bench seat provides additional seating and direct access to the extended swim platform — one of the 320 Sundancer’s most popular features. The swim platform with a boarding ladder, transom shower, and optional teak decking creates a water-level gathering space for swimming, snorkeling, and tender operations.

Optional air conditioning (reverse-cycle marine AC, typically 16,000 BTU) is strongly recommended for owners in warm climates. With shore power connected in a marina, the AC transforms the cabin from a warm fiberglass enclosure into a comfortable sleeping space. Without it, overnighting in the southern US during summer months is challenging. On the pre-owned market, AC-equipped boats command a modest premium and sell faster.

320 Sundancer Ownership: What to Expect

The 320 Sundancer is positioned as an approachable entry point to sport cruiser ownership, and its running costs reflect that positioning. Annual operating costs for a US-based owner typically fall in the USD 10,000–20,000 range:

• Insurance: 1.0–2.0% of hull value. For a 320 Sundancer insured at USD 150,000, approximately USD 1,500–3,000 per year. Navigation area, owner experience, and claims history affect premiums.
• Slip fees: Marina slip rates for a 32-foot boat vary widely by location: USD 3,000–6,000 annually in most US markets, rising to USD 8,000–15,000+ in premium Northeast and Southern California harbors. Inland lake marinas typically charge less.
• Engine service: MerCruiser sterndrive engines require annual service: oil and filter change, raw water impeller, bellows inspection, gimbal bearing check, and lower unit gear lube. Budget USD 1,200–2,500 for twin-engine annual service at a certified dealer. MerCruiser’s dealer network is the largest in the marine industry.
• Winterization: In northern climates, annual winterization (engine fogging, coolant drain, drive service, battery storage) costs approximately USD 800–1,500. Proper winterization is non-negotiable — freeze damage to engine blocks and manifolds is expensive and entirely preventable.
• Fuel: Twin 6.2L MerCruisers consume approximately 20–25 gallons per hour at cruise. At current US marina fuel prices, a 75-hour season costs roughly USD 8,000–10,000. The 320 Sundancer is not an economy boat, but its fuel costs are predictable and manageable for most owners in this segment.
• Haul-out: Annual haul-out, bottom cleaning, and bottom paint (if wet-slipped) costs approximately USD 1,500–2,500. Many freshwater owners skip bottom paint entirely if the boat is trailered or dry-stored.

Depreciation: Sea Ray Sundancers depreciate more quickly than premium brands like Boston Whaler, but the 320 Sundancer benefits from the sheer volume of demand in its segment. Pre-owned examples are widely available, parts are plentiful and affordable, and the MerCruiser sterndrive system is serviced by thousands of dealers nationwide. The total cost of ownership, including depreciation, is among the most predictable in recreational boating.

How to Buy a Sea Ray 320 Sundancer

Generations and evolution: The 320 Sundancer has been produced across multiple generations, with periodic updates to the hull, interior, and systems. Later models (2019+) feature updated styling, improved helm ergonomics, and modern entertainment systems. Earlier examples (2010–2018) offer the same fundamental layout at a lower price point. All generations share the deep-V hull form, twin sterndrive power, and mid-cabin layout. On the pre-owned market, pricing ranges from approximately USD 80,000 for well-used older examples to USD 300,000+ for near-new boats with low hours.

Key Inspection Points

• Sterndrive condition: The Bravo Three drives are the most critical mechanical component. Inspect bellows for cracking (these keep water out of the boat), gimbal bearing condition, U-joints, and lower unit gear lube color (milky color indicates water contamination). A sterndrive rebuild runs USD 3,000–5,000 per drive — factor this into pricing if the drives show wear.
• Engine hours and service history:MerCruiser 6.2L engines are durable, but hours and maintenance matter. 500–800 hours is typical for a 5–7 year old boat. Over 1,000 hours, scrutinize service records closely. Insist on documented annual service with oil analysis reports if available. Check for exhaust manifold and riser corrosion — a common wear item that costs USD 2,000–4,000 to replace on twin engines.
• Gel coat and hull: Inspect for osmotic blistering (especially on boats wet-slipped for extended periods), stress cracks around hardware and through-hulls, and any evidence of impact damage. Check the transom for softness or flex — on older boats, water intrusion into the transom core can compromise the sterndrive mounting structure.
• Electrical system: Test all electronics, verify battery condition (load test recommended), and check wiring behind the helm for corrosion or amateur modifications. Bilge pumps, blower fans, and navigation lights should all function correctly.
• Canvas and upholstery: The cockpit canvas (camper enclosure, bimini) and upholstery are expensive to replace (USD 5,000–10,000 for a full cockpit re-cover). Check for fading, mildew, stitching deterioration, and window clarity on enclosures.

A marine survey for a 320 Sundancer should include an out-of-water hull inspection with particular attention to the sterndrive mounting areas, an engine diagnostic scan, and a sea trial at multiple speeds. Budget USD 1,000–1,800 for a thorough survey. The survey cost is a small fraction of the purchase price and can save thousands by identifying issues before the transaction closes.

Sea Ray 320 Sundancer vs Competitors

The 30–35 ft sport cruiser segment is one of the most populated in recreational boating, with options ranging from budget-friendly to premium. The 320 Sundancer competes on brand recognition, proven design, and the enormous parts and service infrastructure that comes with being America’s best-selling boat brand.

320 Sundancer vs Formula 330 Crossover Bowrider

Formula builds a premium sport cruiser that competes directly with the 320 Sundancer on size and capability. The Formula 330 CBR offers a more performance-oriented hull, higher build quality in the details, and a loyal following among experienced boaters who appreciate the extra refinement. The Formula commands a significant price premium — both new and used. The Sea Ray counters with lower entry cost, wider availability of pre-owned examples and parts, and the largest dealer and service network in the industry. For buyers who prioritize build quality and are willing to pay for it, Formula is compelling. For those who want proven capability, approachable ownership costs, and easy serviceability, the Sea Ray is the pragmatic choice.

320 Sundancer vs Regal 33 Express

The Regal 33 Express is a well-regarded competitor that offers similar cabin accommodation, sterndrive power, and cruising capability at a comparable price point. Regal is known for solid build quality and practical deck layouts. The Sea Ray advantage is brand recognition, resale value, and the depth of the dealer network. The Regal advantage is often a slightly lower price for comparable specification and, in some configurations, a more functional cockpit layout. Both are competent sport cruisers; the choice often depends on local dealer availability and the specific boat’s condition and equipment.

320 Sundancer vs Monterey 335 Sport Yacht

The Monterey 335 Sport Yacht offers contemporary styling and a well-appointed cabin at a competitive price. Monterey has invested heavily in interior design and deck layout in recent years, and the 335 shows the results. The Monterey is often priced below the Sea Ray on both the new and pre-owned markets, making it an attractive value alternative. The Sea Ray 320 Sundancer counters with stronger brand recognition, better resale values, and the enormous MerCruiser service network. For budget-conscious buyers who want maximum boat for the dollar, Monterey deserves consideration. For those who value the Sea Ray name and the confidence of buying into the most established brand in the segment, the Sundancer remains the benchmark.

For a full interactive comparison between the Sea Ray 320 Sundancer and other models, visit the Hulls.io Market Intelligence tool.