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Sea Ray is a well-known brand in the boating industry, known for its sleek designs and high-quality craftsmanship. But with so many boat brands on the market, it’s natural to wonder: Is Sea Ray a good boat brand?

We’ll explore the history of the company, the features that set their boats apart, and what current and past owners have to say about their experiences with this brand.

A 40-ft Sea Ray boat on display at a boat show.
A 40-foot 2017 Sea Ray 400 Sundancer | Xinhua/Yi-Chin Lee via Getty Images

The history of the Sea Ray

Sea Ray is an American boat manufacturer that has been producing high-quality boats for over 60 years. The company was founded in 1959 by Cornelius Nathaniel Ray, commonly known as “C.N. Ray,” in Oxford, Michigan. Originally, the company was called Ray Industries, and it began by building small aluminum runabouts. Over time, the company expanded its production to include larger fiberglass boats and yachts.

According to Go Downsize, in 1986, the company was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, which is now one of the largest recreational marine companies in the world. Under Brunswick’s ownership, Sea Ray continued to grow and innovate, becoming known for its stylish designs, quality craftsmanship, and advanced engineering.

Today, they offer a wide range of boats, from small sport boats to luxurious yachts, and is considered one of the most respected brands in the boating industry.

Perception of the Sea Ray brand in the boating industry

Sea Ray has a reputation for producing high-quality boats that are both stylish and functional. However, opinions about the brand are somewhat mixed. The Hull Truth Boat Forum states that some boaters swear by the brand, citing the brand’s quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. Others, however, have had less positive experiences, pointing to issues with reliability and customer service.

Despite these mixed opinions, Sea Ray remains a popular and respected brand in the boating community. The company has won numerous awards for its boats, including the NMMA Innovation Award and the Boat of the Year Award. Their boats are also frequently featured in boating magazines and industry events.

Overall, while there may be differing opinions about the brand, it is clear that the company has built a solid reputation for producing high-quality boats that are both stylish and functional. With over 60 years of experience and the backing of Brunswick Corporation, Sea Ray is likely to remain a major player in the boating industry for years to come.

Are Sea Ray boats good?

Sea Ray boats are highly reliable vessels that offer both comfort and durability to their owners. Their long-standing reputation in the market speaks to their quality and dependability, especially when it comes to maneuvering in tight quarters such as marinas.

According to Town and Tourist, the company offers boats with a sleek and stylish design that includes features such as sun pads, swim platforms, dining tables, and a luxury helm. Additionally, the boat’s hull design is highly reliable and ensures a smooth ride, especially when paired with ample power.

The durability of these boats is impressive; with proper care and routine inspections, they can last for decade. Sea Ray boats are among the best in mid-tier class when it comes to durability, thanks to their use of high-quality materials. Hiring an accredited marine surveyor for routine inspections can help identify and solve problems, ensuring the boat’s longevity.

Sea Ray boats come at different prices depending on the customization, with new models ranging from $40,000 to $150,000. The Sea Ray app is an excellent resource for boat owners, simplifying and enhancing their journeys. In conclusion, these boats are a solid choice that offers reliable, comfortable, and durable vessels to their owners.