Boaters spend a lot of time in the sun. While time on the water is fun and relaxing, too much hot sun can be both uncomfortable and unsafe. Intense heat and sunburn can turn an enjoyable afternoon of boating into an unpleasant experience.
A bimini boat top equipped with quality canvas transforms an uncovered boat deck into a shade oasis. Select the best bimini top that complements a boat’s size and aesthetics.
Selecting Pre-Assembled or Custom Bimini Tops for Boats
Boaters have many options when adding or replacing bimini boat tops. From pre-assembled boat tops to customized canvas tops, it has never been easier to stay protected from the sun while boating.
Pre-assembled bimini boat tops are typically available in pre-determined widths and lengths for quick and cost-effective upgrades to sun shade on boats. Some standardized sizes will even be able to utilize the same fittings already attached to a boat. This will limit additional work when installing a new bimini top on a boat. Pre-assembled bimini tops can be found in online catalogs that carry smaller powerboat, sailboat and pontoon boat accessories.
Boaters are not limited by catalog selections for boat tops. For a more custom fit, a canvas bimini top can be created for the exact dimensions of a boat.
Custom marine canvas and bimini tops typically require the services of a local canvas shop that can measure a boat for proper fit and installation. In addition to a bimini top, canvas shops can also custom design, fabricate and install sailboat dodgers, glass (isinglass) cockpit enclosures, and screen enclosures.
Whether choosing a pre-assembled top or a custom canvas top, stainless steel fittings and poles are best for a marine environment.
Choose Quality Canvas for Bimini Boat Tops
A durable, marine grade fabric should be used in all boat canvas applications. Sunbrella is by far the most popular brand of canvas fabric for boats and is known for durability, style and selection.
Choose a quality canvas fabric with features desirable for boats:
- UV Resistant & colorfast
- Water resistant & breathable
- Waterproof
- Highly abrasion resistant
In addition to Sunbrella, other marine grade canvas brands include:
- Phifertex
- Naugahyde,
- Surlast
- Sea Mark
- Stamoid
- Shelter-Rite
- Odyssey III
- Top Gun
Upgrading a boat's bimini top with quality canvas materials and a professional installation will help maintain a boat's resale value and appearance.
Bimini Tops for Sun Shade While Boating
The flexibility of a bimini top design allows for convenient extension or retraction of canvas for the desired amount of shade on a boat. Sturdy, quality construction can also provide sun shade on a boat while anchored out or underway. With the right bimini boat top, boating can be more enjoyable and comfortable.
Diane Seltzer - Diane is a branding, pr and social media marketer with experience ranging from advertising to corporate marketing and consulting.
