The Formula 280 Sun Sport is a very sporty, nimble, and versatile boat that features the expected Formula performance and yet delivers comfort and style in typical Formula fashion.

Formula builds a high quality vessel and pays attention to details in construction and layout that other builders just seem to overlook. That attention to detail translates into a solid vessel that will last for years with minimal upkeep. It is simply the choice of the builder to use either slightly more expensive items in their building process or to use cheaper components to increase their bottom line. Formula doesn’t use anything cheap when they build their boats. From the use of 316L high-grade stainless steel to the thickness of the gelcoat, Formula has quality through and through.

Some of the best features of the 280 SS include the layout of the cockpit, which is perfect for a full crew and the sizeable cabin that is more than comfortable for a nights stay. Formula really puts a lot of thought into the design of each model by simply examining how the boat will be used and what features would be of the greatest use to its owners.

One of the great features on the 280 SS is the dedicated dive tank and gear storage found under the port bench seat just opposite the helm. Here Formula has taken a space that is overlooked on other makes and converted it into a very useable space for divers gear or for additional storage of safety gear or larger items. Other great features include the layout of the helm, cockpit, and storage areas throughout the entire boat. Each area is carefully designed with respect to ergonomics, usage, and accommodations. All the exterior seating is complimented with firm cushions and high quality vinyl and stitching. The interior features comfortable Ultraleather couches that are a Formula trademark.

Now let’s talk performance. With the twin 5.7 Mercs, this boat really performs with a top end in the mid fifties. Her narrow beam gives a very nimble feel to the boat as does the performance steering wheel and throttles. The helm seat neatly tucks the captain into place allowing for some pretty aggressive maneuvers and tight turns. This performance edge coupled with the versatility and comfort of this boat make for a great choice of boaters who want the family or friends to be very comfortable yet have the bloodline of a thoroughbred racing beneath their feet.

The boat is easy to dock but keep in mind that when docking with twin engines it is imperative to have the drives centered before reversing. Otherwise the hull will not respond properly as a result of the drives being off center and pulling in that direction. When throttling up, the drives never really cavitated much, unlike other 28’s that we have tested, and is due in part to the precise propping of the boat done by Formula engineers and also in part to the Formula heritage that breeds performance and agility on the water. We got a good lock coming out of the hole with an impressive time of 4.57 seconds…. pretty impressive for a 28-footer weighing 6300 pounds.

All in all, we really enjoyed running the 280 SS. She’s a well built and thoughtfully planned model that will provide years of enjoyment for her owners and continue to give that performance pleasure when called upon.

For further information contact your local dealer or visit www.formulaboats.com.

Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dBA is the level of normal conversation.

Performance Chart

Test Conditions