Buying a Bimini Top for Your Pontoon Boat – The Basics
If you have a Pontoon boat or have ever been interested in one, you may have been drawn to the unbeatable blend of affordability and ease of use compared to greater, more expensive freshwater craft. There is no better boat that seems more appropriate for fishing, sightseeing, or simply kicking back with a cool drink while crossing a lake. The experience, however, will not be pleasant for long, as you sizzle beneath the rays of the sun or get drenched by rain. To derive the most satisfaction from your pontoon excursion, you should obtain a raised protective canopy, most popularly referred to as a Bimini top.
The name of this unassuming device is derived from the group of islands in the westernmost district of the Bahamas, {whose fishermen are responsible for its invention to protect them from the sun and the rain}. Bimini tops today do the same thing, though they are built from sturdier materials. The two important aspects that you must determine when purchasing a Bimini top are: (a) the measurements of the top, (b) the type of fabric.
The most costly, strongest, most beautiful bimini top for a pontoon you can purchase is worthless if it doesn’t fit your pontoon boat. This demands that you obtain three measurements of your boat. For width, just measure the space across your boat from gunnel to gunnel, with slight allowance for the mounting frame. The top can be any length you want that you feel will give you enough protection from the elements. Length is more subjective, but ideally you would require a top long enough to shield a certain average number of passengers at any given time, with extra fabric hanging over if you want extra protection. Lastly, to measure height, attach a straight object across the boat where the mounting brackets will be located, then measure upwards to the height that you desire. For pontoon boats, the best height for the top is one where you can walk beneath without having to bend over, for greater convenience. The height of the top may affect boat speed, but that doesn’t matter on a pleasure cruise.
Selecting the right Bimini top fabric involves finding the proper balance of cost versus strength. Cotton-based tops are the least expensive, made of material similar to canvas, and are an acceptable option if you’re strapped for cash and do not intend to brave the elements often. Cotton tops are weak against ultraviolet (UV) rays, prone to leaking, and may rot over time unless put away safely. Vinyl tops are a very popular choice since they are simple to clean, durable enough to provide long-term weather cover, and are normally resistant to UV rays and deterioration from mildew. Acrylic and treated polyester tops are quite costly by comparison, but also very tough, highly resistant to scratching and fading, and strong enough for constant outdoor excursions. They appear capable of enduring the rigors of fishing in inclement weather. If you plan to ride your pontoon boat out regularly in scorching sun or beating rain, acrylic and polyester would be your best option. Companies like Outdura offer quality patented materials that supply the best protection for your money.
Purchase with care. A good Bimini top often spells the difference between a refreshing time out in the water, and suffering misery and pain from inclement conditions before you are forced to rush for cover.