A 2027 model-year bowrider in Florida
Sea Ray's SLX 280 Outboard appears in the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show listings ahead of the event's 28 October opening. The model combines an open bow, a large cockpit and twin outboard engines rather than the more conventional single inboard package of the sterndrive SLX 280.
An exhibition listing indicates the boat is planned for display, not that it has just made its worldwide premiere. Visitors should confirm the specific unit and fitted options with the exhibitor before making arrangements to board.
The layout favours days on the water
Sea Ray describes a U-shaped bow lounge intended for conversation and relaxation, together with an expanded cockpit and generous stowage. This makes the boat relevant to families who enjoy outings with several passengers and want to avoid restricting everyone to a small aft bench.
The company's next-generation Power Tower is intended to provide shade and weather coverage for key parts of the deck. Owners should check the actual equipment package because individual boats may not carry every optional feature shown in promotional material.
Length and beam need careful reading
Sea Ray publishes an overall length of 31 feet 5 inches for the outboard configuration, including its engine installation, and a beam of 9 feet. These dimensions are particularly relevant when selecting a marina berth or a suitable trailer and tow vehicle.
The outboard and sterndrive versions are not identical in overall length or draft. Buyers comparing models should request the data for their exact configuration rather than assume one SLX 280 specification covers both.
Twin Mercury Verados and joystick control
The 2027 model-year configurator lists twin Mercury 250-horsepower Verado outboards with joystick piloting as the standard propulsion package. Sea Ray also publishes a 135-US-gallon fuel capacity and estimated top-speed range of 50–52 miles per hour under test conditions.
A quoted maximum speed is not a promise for every load or sea state. Fuel use at normal cruising speeds and the cost of servicing two engines are equally important questions during a dealer consultation.
Comfort choices and practical storage
The manufacturer offers colour schemes, cockpit finishes and equipment bundles so owners can tailor the boat to their preferences. A bowrider is most versatile when there is enough secured storage for lifejackets, towels and equipment rather than simply an attractive seating arrangement.
For regular coastal use, the availability of a toilet, water system and cooling arrangements can have a significant influence on comfort. Buyers should confirm whether these features are included or require optional bundles on the displayed boat.
An opportunity for direct comparison
Fort Lauderdale provides a useful setting to compare the SLX 280 Outboard with other leisure boats in its size range. Visitors can assess safe movement to the bow, views from the helm and how conveniently passengers reach the swimming area.
A practical decision should consider marina arrangements, warranty support, intended loading and local conditions. Published performance estimates and online prices vary by model year and equipment, making a written dealer specification essential.
Show access and next steps
The public show is scheduled from 28 October through 1 November, with multiple exhibition venues and a mixture of dockside and onshore displays. Exact opening hours and access rules should be checked with the organiser before travelling.
A buyer should use the show to shortlist equipment requirements and arrange a later on-water demonstration. A static display cannot establish how the hull handles chop, how smoothly it accelerates or what the actual consumption will be on a typical trip.