{"id":10237,"date":"2023-08-28T17:36:59","date_gmt":"2023-08-29T00:36:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog2.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=10237"},"modified":"2024-01-29T15:59:52","modified_gmt":"2024-01-29T22:59:52","slug":"the-different-types-of-boat-covers-how-to-choose-the-right-type","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/the-different-types-of-boat-covers-how-to-choose-the-right-type\/","title":{"rendered":"The Different Types of Boat Covers: How to Choose the Right Type"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Don’t let your shiny new boat become one of “those boats”.<\/em>  You know the ones – the boats left stranded and cover-less in some open-air asphalt lot or even tied up towards the back of the marina. With their lusterless and oxidized finish, cracked upholstery, and faded helm controls, these boats look almost derelict after less than five years of use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The one commonality between “these boats?” They’ve all been left uncovered in the open air, exposed to the elements. Unfortunately, in some cases, even a “covered” slip can’t protect boats completely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To keep your boat from becoming one of “those boats,” <\/em>you’ll need to invest in quality protective boat cover. This must-have can keep your boat looking sharp today, reduce maintenance costs tomorrow, and even boost resale value in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Old<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Image source<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding Boat Covers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A boat cover serves as a barrier against the detrimental effects of sun, wind, water, and other threats. Choosing a quality boat cover is important for maintaining your boat’s appearance and durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Boat Covers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Boat covers come in lots of shapes and sizes.  Each is made to address the different needs of different boats.  Specific types of boats are protected best by a model or type-specific cover. For example, a deck boat is protected better by a cover made specifically for these kinds of watercraft rather than a cover designed for bass boats, for example. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Image source<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common types of covers are bimini tops, enclosures, cockpit covers, bow covers, and storage covers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boat “canvas”, either bimini tops or full enclosures, are structures.  Bimini tops offer only shade for passengers. Full enclosures provide shade plus protection for both the boat and its passengers. Enclosures, however, typically have “roll-up” sides with clear panels for visibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some covers protect the entire boat, from bow to stern <\/strong>and across the entire width (beam).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other types shield only certain sections of the boat. like the helm or seating areas.<\/strong> Whereas a cockpit cover protects a vessel from the windshield to the stern. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Boat<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Above: Boat with a bimini top. <\/em><\/strong>Image Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Enclosure<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Above: This enclosure has a zippered hatch at the helm since some captains prefer to operate standing. <\/em><\/strong>Image Source<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Universal vs. Custom vs. Semi-Custom Boat Covers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Universal fit boat covers<\/strong> are the lowest-cost option.  Usually, they are made to fit the boat, based only on the boat’s length and width.  Without well-placed underside supports (usually poles), universal covers will generally deliver a looser fit and less protection than custom or semi-custom options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Universal boat covers are usually held to the boat in one of two ways:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n