Sea Ray SLX 350 - Review 2023

If having the ability to take your friends and family out on the water for the day is a priority, then this is the boat for you. To do that, there are some “must haves” for the boater (after safety, of course), and this vessel checks all those boxes, in our opinion. One highly impressive feature we’ll discuss is the deck space available for enjoying the sun.

One noteworthy feature on the swim platform is the stainless steel tie-downs where, while underway, you can secure a SUP, inflatable toys, etc. You can also use these to secure tow ropes for tubing or water skiing.

First, the design has incorporated a submersible swim platform off the stern combined with an aft facing cushioned bench that converts into a reclining sundeck with seating for three. Bookending the reclining sundeck are cupholders, waterproof speakers, and device charging stations. You won’t need to get up all day!

Moving forward from the stern, we access the cockpit from the transom walkway on the starboard side, where you’ll find your wash-down hose and the battery switches. In addition to the standard model, Sea Ray offers the wet bar, stove, and refrigerator option for the cockpit, which provides everything you need within a minimal footprint.

The cockpit is equipped with swivel seats at the helm and co-pilot station, which have thigh-rise bolsters if you prefer to stand. Also at the co-pilot area, we have the hatch for the port hideaway, a small berth one could use to get out of the weather, take a nap, or for additional storage.

On the starboard side, near the helm station, we have an access hatch for a spacious marine head.

Again, on the port side of the cockpit is fixed wrap-around ‘L’ seating with plenty of storage for coolers below and more ‘smugglers storage’ behind the backrests. This is also where you have space to set up the folding teak table.

Above the cockpit, the SLX 350 comes standard with a fiberglass hardtop for shade or the retractable canvas sun shade as an upgrade option. It also has a built-in retractable canvas shade that extends aft to cover the stern seating.

Moving forward again to the bow of the vessel, we have more cushioned seating for 6-8 adults that include more storage space below the benches and the option to utilize cocktail tables for drinks and food. When the tables are not in use, they can be placed to create another sundeck/lounge area.

At the helm, Sea Ray has taken their electronics system to the next level with an inset, nine inch, dual screen, Simrad GO9 electronics and navigation system. This tech is integrated seamlessly with the twin MerCruiser engines, so all of your critical information is at your fingertips.

Great Connectivity

For the newer models, Sea Ray has incorporated an on-board management system called VesselView Mobile, which connects to your mobile device through Bluetooth. This technology provides gauge information to track your engines with customizable data points. It also will send an alert if something needs to be addressed.

For propulsion, Sea Ray uses twin MerCruiser twin-drives with various power options, the most common being 6.2 or 8.2 liter MAGs with Smart Craft digital throttle and Axius joy stick steering system. If you’re already in this price point, we recommend including the Axius control system. The peace-of-mind and maneuverability that it provides around the dock is well worth the additional cost.

With Axius you’ll be able to advance, stop, and spin the vessel 360 degrees, within a boat’s length. It also includes Sky Hook technology so you can hold your GPS location, even in heavy winds.

Great Electronic Features

Another feature that Sea Ray has exclusively incorporated into the SLX 350 is a system called QuietRide, which mitigates 50% of the engine and wind noise, making for a much quieter ride at high speeds. On that note, the SLX 350 now comes standard equipped with a Fusion Apollo audio system that includes four pairs of 6.5” speakers and a 10” subwoofer.

While we’re on the topic of electronics, we should forewarn you if you’re considering purchasing this boat. One concern with this vessel, as with all vessels, is the amount of electronic components needed to provide such a luxurious experience.

The marine environment is very hard on electronic components, hydraulic actuating arms, and other systems that rely on small moving parts to function properly. So, eventually, after some use and weather, some of these marine electronic components may fail, and need to be replaced.

This is particularly true in salt water, which exacerbates corrosion of metal. Just as high-end cars are expensive to fix, this holds true for high-end boats.

Is It Worth the Price Tag?

Although this luxury bow rider is definitely on the pricier side, approximately $200,000 for a pre-owned 2015, we think the hefty price point is justifiable, especially for their target buyer. We have awarded this boat a 5 out of 5 stars, when compared to the competition.