Matching a modified vee Sea Ray 250 Select EX 2008 against a deep vee Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2013 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Sea Ray 250 Select EX 2008 at 26,0 ft versus Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2013 at 28,7 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2013 tips the scales at 8 211 lbs — 2 819 lbs less than the Sea Ray 250 Select EX 2008 at 5 392 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 375 hp, the Sea Ray 250 Select EX 2008 has a 75-hp advantage over the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2013's 300-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Sea Ray 280 Sundancer 2013 carries 84 gallons versus 75 gallons in the Sea Ray 250 Select EX 2008. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 8 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.