The new 48 Sundancer is proof that Sea Ray is not afraid to take big swings. Sea Ray fans will first sense change in the air when they note that she is the 48 not a 480. In fact, the 48 Sundancer is the first boat in Sea Ray?Ĵs fleet to display this new badge. She is also the first Sundancer to feature a semi-enclosed helm deck. Her shapely fiberglass hardtop is integrated with a dramatic, forward sweeping arch, a curved glass windshield and glass side-windows. It's not only a new look for Sundancer, the all-weather helm will add boating days to the calendars of Great Lakes boaters. In the same practical fashion, hull-side windows add an attractive styling accent as well as natural lighting below deck.

The cockpit incorporates all the comfort and amenities you would expect aboard a Sundancer as well as a few new features. Helm and companion seating are adjustable and also pivot 90 degrees as a unit, creating a helm lounge area together with the seating to port. The windshield has an electrically actuated vent and the hardtop has two center-hinged skylight/hatches that provide natural lighting and fresh air. If that's not cool enough, a 24,000 BTU helm air-conditioning system can be fitted. The helm area can also be finished with a teak sole. The cockpit has a large seating area with a table. A wet bar has an icemaker or can be fitted with a refrigerator. A 17-inch LCD flat-screen TV on a removable pedestal is offered for those who can't miss a game. An integral swim platform is standard and a hydraulic platform is available to carry the tender.

The 48's interior is finished in cherry accented with high quality fabrics and fixtures. Below, the main cabin has an L-shaped sofa with a pullout berth and a high-low table. This is a welcome change in my opinion. Some of the curved settees found on other boats may look nice at a boat show, but have you ever tried to lay down with a good book on a curved surface? It's not easy and usually involves one leg braced on the cabin sole.

The entertainment center is equipped with a CD changer,DVD player and a 23-inch LCD flat-screen TV. The galley area has an upright refrigerator/freezer, a cook-top and a microwave/convection oven. A hardwood sole is optional and adds a nice touch of class. The side windows are great looking and really open up the space. You can see your surroundings from the galley and settee.

The forward stateroom has an island berth with a comfortable innerspring mattress, a 17-inch LCD flat-screen TV and separate head and shower compartments. The mid-stateroom has a private head and two single berths that can be joined to form a queen. The hanging locker can be fitted with a combo washer/dryer.

The 48's molded fiberglass hull and superstructure meet all applicable U.S. Coast Guard and ABYC (American Boat & Yacht Council) standards and she has full NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) certification. Her helm is designed to accommodate the SmartCraft information system as well as two, daylight-viewable, 12.1-inch touch-screen displays driven by a Sea Ray Navigator II system. This user-friendly interface should result in hassle free boating.

Standard power is a pair of 483 hp Cummins QSC 8.3-490 diesels with V drives that allow a cruising speed of 24.7 knots and a maximum speed of approximately 27.7 knots. Optional 517 hp Cummins QSC 8.3-540's are offered and should give a cruising speed of 27.7 and a top end of 30.8 knots. Either package, coupled with the 48?Ĵs soft entry and 19 degree transom deadrise delivers a dry, comfortable ride.

The 48's aggressive new styling and rich interior design will no doubt influence future additions to the Sundancer lineup. If you like riding on the cutting edge, the 48 Sundancer is a solid choice. Call your local Sea Ray dealer or contact Sea Ray at (800) 274- 0939; www.searay.com.