The Sea Ray SDX 290 2023 vs Sea Ray Sundeck 290 2017 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 SDX 290 2023 at 29,2 ft versus Sea Ray Sundeck 290 2017 at 29,2 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sea Ray SDX 290 2023 tips the scales at 6 595 lbs — 124 lbs more than the Sea Ray Sundeck 290 2017 at 6 471 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 380 hp, the Sea Ray Sundeck 290 2017 has a 80-hp advantage over the Sea Ray SDX 290 2023's 300-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 85 gal and 85 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
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 290 2017 and its 380-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Sea Ray SDX 290 2023 with its 300-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.