2016 Sea Ray 470 Sundancer Boat Test

As a Sundancer owner I’m always keen to get on board another model to see how it compares. When I first saw the 470 I was surprised at the limited exterior cockpit size, but once on board I appreciated the change.

Unlike my 15-year old model where the huge exterior cockpit is protected from the elements only by canvas, the new approach is the SkyFlow design. It means enclosed areas that are as wide open as possible. 

Almost entirely windows, the full glass doors slide out of the way to open up the appropriately named sunroom to the exterior cockpit that features a grill and wet bar. Add to that the massive sunroof that glides open with the push of a button and the luxurious interior accommodations are open and airy.

The helm fits nicely without being a massive interruption of the entertaining area or sacrificing anything the captain needs. There are excellent sightlines, both for docking, and running at speed. There’s a combination of analog switches, dual Raymarine displays and SmartCarftVesselView. A small window opens beside the captain’s chair to help with communication while docking, though the joystick controls make it simple enough.

In front of the helm, the windshield is pushed forward, allowing natural light to open up the lower salon. It’s the equivalent of cathedral ceilings in a condo and it’s a clever touch, only sacrificing a few feet of exterior bow space which, to be honest, is rarely utilized as much as the rest of the boat. 

Down below is a full-beam master, mid-ship with private head and shower and lots of storage and hanging lockers. At the bow is the expertly appointed, forward stateroom. Flanking the entrance to it are the guest head, to port, and the guest shower, to starboard.

The 470 Sundancer is like a floating condo, but it handles like a sport boat. Cutting through chop on our test day as if it wasn’t there and cruising very nicely around 30 miles per hour. 

Test Boat Engine

Twin Zeus-Cummins QSB 6.7 L (408 ci), in-line six-cylinder 480 HO diesel

ACCELERATION (mph/sec)

0-20 / N/A 

TOP SPEED (rpm/mph)

37 mph

CRUISING SPEED (rpm/mph)

31 mph

PHOTO

SPECS

Model year: 2016

Make: Sea Ray

Model: 470 Sundancer

Category: Express

Length: 47ft 3in / 14.40 m

Beam: 14ft / 4.27 m

Hull Type: Fiberglass

Engine Type: Pod drive

Fuel Capacity: 350

Engines: 2

According: Boattest.com