2003 Chaparral Signature 280 for Sale – 28 ft – Lindenhurst, NY, United States

2003 Chaparral Signature 280 – Twin Merc Power, Garmin 1243 GPS, and Recent Upgrades

Engines: Twin MerCruiser 4.3L MPI – 510 Hours

This well-maintained 2003 Chaparral Signature 280 is a stylish and capable express cruiser, offering dependable MerCruiser twin power, a thoughtfully designed cabin, and recent upgrades where it counts — including a brand-new Garmin GPS and windlass anchor. Perfect for long weekends on the water with friends or family, she blends performance, comfort, and value.

Highlights:

Twin MerCruiser 4.3L MPI Engines – Only 510 hours, fuel-injected for efficiency and reliability.

Upgraded Garmin 1243 GPS/Chartplotter – 12" touchscreen display installed in 2024 ($4,000 value).

New Windlass Anchor System – Installed one season ago ($1,500), adds convenience at the helm.

New Starter (Starboard Engine) – Replaced in 2024 ($1,000).

Spacious Cockpit – Wraparound seating, cockpit table, and wet bar for entertaining.

Extended Swim Platform – With integrated ladder and transom door access.

Camper Canvas Enclosure – Full enclosure provides extended seasonal usability.

Cabin Features:

Convertible V-Berth and Mid-Cabin – Comfortably sleeps four.

Compact Galley – Includes microwave, electric cooktop, sink, and refrigerator.

Enclosed Head with Pump Flush Toilet – Reliable and simple marine sanitation system.

Climate Control – Air conditioning with reverse cycle heat for year-round comfort.

This Chaparral is ideal for buyers seeking a clean, lightly used express cruiser with the right upgrades already done — and the flexibility to add more. No generator, no problem: it’s already pre-wired. No outdated electronics here — the Garmin 1243 is ready to guide your next adventure.

Chaparral took many of the styling and design cues used on their biggest cruisers and fashioned them into the Signature 280 - a boat that many experts consider the ultimate cruiser under 30 feet on the water today. Seaworthy freeboard and a comfortable 10-foot beam means owners can chart big water destinations without concern. The innovative cockpit layout includes a mini-gallery, expansive storage, contour wrap-around seating, and a beautiful at-a-glance control center. Aft, the hideaway rear cockpit bench folds up for fishing and diving. A transom storage trunk is ideal for water toys and bulky items. An extended activity platform is included as standard equipment. The 280's Camper Canvas with it's "Bubble Tent" design has curved stainless steel poles that mean added headroom in the aft section of the boat. The dual-wide helm station has lots of room for optional Ray Marine electronics. Belowdecks, the 280 is equipped with the standard Overnight Package which includes shore power, a 50-foot cord, a microwave, a coffee maker, a hot water heater, a porcelain head, and a battery charger. The cedar-lined closets keep clothes fresh, the suspended vinyl headliner doesn't retain odors, and the premium JBL CD sound system with hideaway speakers creates the perfect ambiance. Options worth considering include air conditioning, windlass, generator, and single or twin power.