Bimini Tops: Finding the Right Fit
16th Mar 2018 | Posted by Aaron
As August comes to an end and we head into the final stretch of summer, you may still be considering a bimini top, especially as manufacturers and distributers offer seasonal clearance sales.
If you happen to know the make, model, and year of your boat, you can simply input that information in our Bimini Top Finder tool, and you should find the right fit.
But, if you don’t have that information you’ll need to get some measurements of your boat. Here are a few pointers to help you to do that accurately:
Width - First, decide where you’re going to mount your bimini top – the windshield, top of the gunwale, or inside of the gunwale? Then, figure out the mounting point. The location of the mounting point will determine the width of the frame that you will need. Remember that the mounting point will be at the mid-point of your top, (so if the top is 6 feet long, the cover will extend for 3 feet on each side of the mid-point). Mark that spot with a piece of masking tape and measure the width from there. Widths come in ranges between 47 inches and 103 inches.
Length - The length of your bimini top depends on how much area you for which you want to provide shade. You may just want to cover the front seats. Or, you may want to include the front seats and the next row of seats as well. The boat’s seat configuration and style are important to know before you start your selection process. Your options for length will typically range from 5 feet to 8 feet.
Height - This is the area where your personal preference has the most impact. The profile of your bimini top will affect your standing room as well as the speed and maneuverability of your boat. You will also want to consider the height of the gunwale and the boat style. For faster boats, owners tend to go with shorter tops due to the stress on the bimini frame. Bimini tops for pontoon boats, on the other hand, are typically taller because pontoons don’t go as fast and passengers tend to walk around more. On the other hand, low-profile bimini tops tend to be the standard choice for ski boats since they are used at higher speeds and people tend to stay seated.
Do you have experience measuring for a bimini top? How did it go? Were there any tricks that buyers should be aware of? Share your tips in comments. Do you have any questions? Just ask, I would be glad to help.
Feel free to check out our help guide for more information.
Also, take a look at this helpful video from Carver Industries:
