Your pontoon boat is a real gem. Its versatility can provide a scenic and quiet evening with your significant other as easily as a beautifully chaotic day with the kids or grandkids. Deep down, you know it’s not just about the boat—it’s about the memories your pontoon provides.

For that reason, you want to keep your pontoon boat in the best possible condition. Although there are a variety of strategies you can employ to do that, pontoon boat covers are one of the most effective options available.

That said, there are a ton of boat cover choices out there and it can tough figuring out which type of boat cover to purchase for your pontoon. If you're in that situation, let’s get rid of the mystique by going through the basics of pontoon boat covers.

Carver and Westland

These are the only 2 names you need to know when researching pontoon boat covers.

Carver boat covers are manufactured here in the USA and they offer over 30 years of experience fabricating products that can withstand the harsh elements. Carver offers Styled to Fit and Specialty covers for your pontoon boat and backs their products up with industry leading warranties and excellent customer service.

Westland has been covering boats for over 40 years and have earned the reputation for making the “world’s best fitting boat cover”. Westland offers select fit boat covers for your pontoon boat and an array of accessories and associated products.

Both Carver and Westland offer top of the line Sunbrella as a fabric choice as well as an assortment of additional fabrics to suit every budget and practically every climate.

Boat Cover Fabric Considerations for Your Pontoon Based on Climate

Many hobbyists choosing the fabric of their pontoon boat cover for the first time imagine it’s all about finding one that’s aesthetically pleasing. While that holds some importance, the fabric type of your cover is crucial for proper function based on the climate you live in.

Hot and Humid Climates: If you live in a Floridian climate, you're well acquainted with ongoing hot and humid weather. For that reason, you’ll need a pontoon boat cover with plenty of air circulation to avoid mildew and mold on your cover and boat. Because of its breathability, one of the best options for fabric in humid settings is Carver SunDura.

Snow and Rain: Does the climate you live in receive its fair share of rain and snow? If so, you certainly don’t want that water pocketing and possibly leaking through your cover, causing damage to your pontoon. You need a cover that's high in durability, water resistance and breathability. One of the best fabrics for your pontoon boat cover in wet environments is also Carver SunDura.

Salt-Water: If you plan to moor in salt-water, you’ll need 100% marine grade acrylic fabric. Sunbrella is our fabric recommendation in this case and is produced by both Westland and Carver.

Towing: Transporting your boat requires an unusually strong and durable pontoon boat cover. Water resistance and UV protection are both critical. Westland Sharkskin Plus is the perfect boat cover fabric to use when trailering your pontoon boat.

Visual Appeal: Fading is an inevitable aspect of pontoon boat covers. If you want your cover to look its best for a long time to come, consider purchasing a lighter color. These hue choices are not as prone to fading as darker ones are.

The Benefits of Pontoon Boat Covers

There are a host of benefits you can expect from a pontoon boat cover. Here are a few of the major ones to consider.

Less Cleaning Time: Who wants to spend more time scrubbing their boat and getting everything in order before launching? A quality boat cover means more water time and less scrubbing time.

Discourages Theft: Pontoon boat covers discourage attempts from thieves interested in stealing your outboards, outdrives, electronics and other personal items. The added security will lead to increased peace of mind that your investment will be safe.

Critters Stay Out: Bird droppings, bugs and rodents are kept out with quality boat covers. That also goes for plant materials such as overhanging trees and other debris. 

Decreased Replacement and Repair Costs: Pontoon boat covers keep everything running smooth and in working order, minimizing upkeep costs. Over its lifespan, your boat cover will more than pay for itself by keeping potential problems from ever starting in the first place. 

Damage Protection: Fading, dents and scratches are all reduced when a quality pontoon boat cover is in place. You'll end up with a better-looking boat as a result—one you can be proud of for a long time to come.

How to Install a Pontoon Boat Cover

Because of the vast amount of pontoon boat covers on the market, installation of your cover will vary depending on the style you purchase.

The most important thing to remember when installing your new boat cover for the first time is to follow the instructions carefully. Not doing so could cause damage to your boat cover, pontoon boat or both. The process is more complex than simply draping the cover over your boat and fastening it.

With most boat covers, you start at the bow of your watercraft and finish at the stern (after adding padding and unfolding it correctly). This includes eliminating areas that could collect ice, snow or water.

After correctly covering your boat and checking the cover for sagging areas, you'll need to reinforce and tie down the cover.

When removing your boat cover, keep in mind there is a specific way to fold your pontoon boat cover to ensure easy installation the next time you want to use it. Keeping this step in mind will save you a lot of time and frustration.

Savvy Boaters is Here for All of Your Pontoon Boating Accessory Needs

Looking for just the right accessories to go with your pontoon boat? Feel free to check out the many accessory options we have available.

Regardless of your pontoon boat cover needs, Savvy Boater has you covered (pun intended). We offer the full selection of watercraft accessories for virtually every boat out there. Our passion is helping you take your boating passion to the next level.