The Sea Ray Amberjack 290 2006 vs Sea Ray Sundeck 280 2013 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story: intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Sea Ray Amberjack 290 2006 at 29,0 ft versus Sea Ray Sundeck 280 2013 at 28,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sea Ray Amberjack 290 2006 tips the scales at 11 300 lbs - 5 574 lbs more than the Sea Ray Sundeck 280 2013 at 5 726 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 410 hp, the Sea Ray Sundeck 280 2013 has a 150-hp advantage over the Sea Ray Amberjack 290 2006's 260-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 Amberjack 290 2006 carries 230 gallons versus 85 gallons in the Sea Ray Sundeck 280 2013. 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.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Sea Ray Sundeck 280 2013 and its 410-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Sea Ray Amberjack 290 2006 with its 260-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.