The new Sea Ray SLX 280 OB surprises
The first model of 2024, the SLX 280 OB, is an 8.69 m long bowrider with seating for 12 passengers and a draft of 1.04 m. The shipyard engineers continue to implement the ideas inherent in the SLX 260 exterior design. The high bulwarks form one smooth line with the rim of the windshield, extending down to the swim platform. This makes the boat seem longer than it actually is. The glass has become taller and more sloping compared to previous generations of SLX, in which it resembled a polyhedron. Its middle section opens to provide access to the front seating area. The new model feels confident in shallow water, easily cuts through waves and shows excellent controllability.
While the overall appearance of the bowrider has not changed much, the shape of the nose has noticeably changed. Now it looks more like the Latin letter U, rather than a sharp V. The space between the sofas has become wider, in addition, this area can be turned into a solarium.
The engineers took special care to make the cockpit and swim platform spacious and the layout simple and clear. Upholstered sofas with high backs are installed along the sides and sunroom, leaving plenty of free space in the middle. A pair of seats for the helmsman and passenger at the windshield rotate around their axis. It is also possible to install an optional transforming table. Attaching it to the corner section of a large sofa is not difficult. This results in a spacious dining area.
In the cockpit, cup holders or wireless phone charging panels are always at hand. The most successful solution is a miniature pull-out table on the starboard side, between the pilot’s seat and the sofa. There’s just enough space for two cup holders and a charger, and there’s a hidden glove compartment under the tabletop. There is a refrigerator right downstairs. As usual, there are lockers inside the seats. They are equipped with gas lift and open smoothly and effortlessly.
The walkway from bow to transom along the centerline of the deck is wide, without steps and with only one bend at the aft deck. There is a folding step on the transom so that you can climb onto the pier from the side of the boat. Made from natural teak, it is compact, non-slip and can withstand heavy weight.
Two outboard motors (MerCruiser from 350 to 430 hp) did not affect the capacity of the swim platform. It is wide enough for several people and absolutely safe. On its right side, a steel telescopic ladder extends for descent into the water.
The interior represents a completely new level of design and technology, impressing with original stylistic solutions. The high quality of finishing is noticeable in every detail.
The high-speed model in the Sea Ray “luxury line” is equipped with an advanced Fusion Premier audio system. The speakers, reliably protected from moisture, are mounted at the base of the aft sofa near the swim platform, in the arch and in the bow seats.
The wakeboarding arch has an electric drive. Its height is adjusted by two buttons “higher” and “lower” on the side of the boat. An additional section extends from the bimini awning, allowing you to completely close the cockpit from the sun.
The SLX 280 Outboard is equipped with the latest technology to make navigation and control easier. The instrument panel is equipped with two 9-inch Simrad touch displays (12-inch ones are also available) with engine data, Active Trim control and monitoring system, chart plotter, CZone digital switch and much more. Stereo system controls are displayed on a small screen at the bottom.
All that remains is to rush with the wind, and when parked, turn on the sound at full volume and turn the entire boat into a party platform.
