450 Sea Ray Sundancer

450 Sea Ray Sundancer Review

Source: Pierce Hoover, Yachting Magazine

Though it tucks into a tidy numeric niche halfway between Sea Ray’s existing 43- and 48-foot models, the latest 45-footer to bear the Sundancer name isn’t just an exercise in brand extension or an undated classic. It is an all-new product from the keel up, designed to take advantage of new propulsion technologies and loaded with innovative amenities that maximize social potential.

On deck, a generously proportioned central conversation pit, convertible bench/sun lounge and spacious swim platform provide ample seating and unimpeded deck space for swim parties and raft-ups. The hardtop carries far enough aft to provide shelter for the lounge area without creating a sense of confinement. Cockpit amenities include everything from a wet bar and integrated grill to blueprinted sound systems and a satellite-fed flat screen.

But it’s also a driver’s boat. Because many passengers prefer forward-facing seats when under way, the designers opted for a pair of double-wide bench seats along the dashboard instead of a secondary portside lounge. By combining a power-driven sunroof and windshield vents with topside air conditioning, Sea Ray gave owners the ability to create a climate-controlled boating experience. On the sweltering, 97-degree afternoon in Florida when we came aboard, the cockpit air conditioning was definitely appreciated.

The pre-trip engine inspection was easier and cooler than expected, thanks to the large power-assist hatch that rises to expose almost the entire amidships mechanical space. Real estate is always at a premium in an express cruiser’s engine room, but I saw no issues here. Seacocks, major plumbing and most mechanical and fluid checkpoints are located on or near the centerline, although one would have to stretch a bit to service the genset or some of the AC components.

Like a number of the company’s recent releases, this boat provides the tunnels needed to support Zeus pod drives. But this particular model has also been engineered to accommodate gas and diesel stern-drive options. For hull number one, the builders selected the midrange 364 hp Cummins diesels instead of the maxed-out 475 hp iron.

On boats such as the 450, pod drives will typically provide a significant increase in performance as compared to shaft drives of similar power. Given this advantage, coupled with interpretations of performance stats from previous Sea Ray models in the 44- to 46-foot range, I expected to see speeds in the low to mid-30 mph range, with fuel consumption a bit north of 45 gph. Yet despite our heavy loading and the hot, humid conditions, the boat touched 36 mph and registered an even more reasonable 40 gph max fuel burn. Throughout the speed range, the 450 provided a combination of speed and efficiency that was 25 to 30 percent better than a comparable 45-foot express cruiser from the 1990s.

Whether owners choose Zeus drives or I/Os with Axius, they will enjoy the benefits of a joystick control at the helm. In addition, the boat’s expansive windows provided distortion-free visibility in all directions.

The cabin hatch’s central position and the fixed windshield preclude inboard bow access, but there are substantial grab rails on the hardtop and reasonably wide side decks to allow safe passage forward. The hardtop did not amplify engine noise, making conversation possible at cruise speeds.

At speed or at rest, the 450’s deck offers prime lounging and entertaining real estate. But it is what’s down below that really sets this boat apart from the fleet. Most express boats of this size follow a similar pattern: master stateroom forward of the salon and a smaller central cabin under the helm. This second cabin may or may not provide standing headroom and a compact secondary head, and it is usually accessed via a small door or tunnellike passage. In contrast, the 450’s central cabin is wide open to the salon. Instead of a guest bedroom, it’s laid out like a media room, with a settee on the port side facing a 37-inch flat screen. Mood lighting, gaming and a killer sound system ensure this space will be a favorite kickback destination for kids of all ages.

Also contributing to the open feeling of the cabin are six pairs of fixed and opening windows and port lights, along with a dual-textured headliner that helps create a sense of casual elegance. One could easily have a half-dozen friends mill around the salon enjoying hors d’oeuvres while the teenagers perfect their gaming skills in the media room.

In addition to above-average entertaining potential, the cabin does provide a range of overnight amenities, including a full galley. Forward, the master cabin provides a generous island berth, along with separate head and shower compartments. A convertible settee and privacy curtain transform the central media room into a comfortable second stateroom.

Whether you’re planning a nautical tailgate party with a dozen good friends or a weekend cruise with the family, the 450 will provide a crowdpleasing combination of comfort and performance.