The Sea Ray 480 is a throwback to the era of the classic flush-deck motor yachts that dominated the market during the 1970s and early 1980s. (Flush-deck yachts are distinguished by having the primary helm and aft deck on the same level.) Practical in design and more sociable than flybridge yachts, the 480 allows owner and guests to enjoy the ride together in the comfort and security of the protected aft deck. Below decks, the comfortable interior of the Sea Ray 480 is roomy and luxurious. A long, U-shaped Ultraleather lounge dominates the salon with its recessed lighting, elliptical windows, and built-in entertainment center. Both the galley and dinette are open to the salon, and there are two staterooms forward, one with a double berth and the other, stretching beneath the salon sole, with twins. Note that a washer/dryer combo is fitted in a utility space under the galley stairs. Wing doors, a stylish and functional hardtop, and an aft deck wet bar were standard. On the downside, the engine room, accessed via a hatch in the salon sole, is a tight fit. Twin 535hp Cummins diesels cruise the Sea Ray 480 in the low 20s (27–28 knots top), and 640hp Cats cruise in the mid 20s (about 30 knots top).