While getting ready for your next pontoon boat trip, there are a few things that you can’t control. One of them is the weather.
Spending time in the sun is indeed something that we all enjoy and it provides us with lots of physical and emotional benefits, but after too many hours in the sun, you might start craving some shade.
This is what a Bimini top is for. So, what is it? How can you choose the best pontoon Bimini boat? Keep on reading to find the answers to your questions in this article. Here’s a quick list of our top picks for the best pontoon bimini tops:
What Is a Pontoon Bimini Top?
A Bimini top is an open-front cover that shields the top of your pontoon boat without blocking the front. It’s supported by a metal frame and can be set up or collapsed according to your needs.
Installing a Bimini top will be an excellent addition to your pontoon boat because it provides protection from the sun’s rays during the hottest hours of the day. However, it only protects the top of the boat and doesn’t keep the wind away because the sides, back, and front are exposed.
Whenever needed, you can stretch the Bimini top all by yourself or collapse it to enjoy some sunshine. Bimini tops come in several shapes and sizes, so you can find the right fit for your pontoon boat.
Why Should I Use a Pontoon Bimini Top?
In addition to investing in a high-quality pontoon boat, you want to make sure that it’s equipped with the right accessories for smooth and comfortable sailing. Luckily, buying a pontoon Bimini top isn’t difficult because these tops aren’t that expensive and are easy to install. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a Bimini cover for your pontoon boat.
- A Bimini top will create a shaded area on your boat, so you can enjoy it when the sun is too hot. It also provides the needed protection from UV rays that can damage your skin in the long run.
- This cover doesn’t completely restrict the open design of your pontoon boat, so you can still enjoy the fresh air without suffering from sun damage.
- The Bimini top can provide some protection from the rain, especially when the wind isn’t too strong.
- It protects your deck and all the accessories on your pontoon boat from potential sun and rain damage.
- Setting up the Bimini top is a straightforward task that doesn’t take much time.
How Can I Choose the Best Pontoon Bimini Top?
Because it’s a great addition to your pontoon boat, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration to buy the right Bimini cover for your boat.
Material
Most pontoon Bimini tops are made of waterproof canvas to withstand being exposed to the water. However, you need to make sure that the fabric is durable enough, so it doesn’t rip because of the wind.
UV-treated fabric is better because you can guarantee that it won’t show signs of damage or discoloration when you keep your boat in the sun. Acrylic-coated polyester is a good choice because it’s resistant to water damage and sun damage. The fabric should also be mildew-resistant and fade-resistant to look its best no matter how long you use it.
Polyvinyl and vinyl are also popular materials. These are lightweight materials that are fade and damage resistant.
Fittings and frame
The fittings and frame on your pontoon Bimini top should be easy to use whenever needed. The frame should be made of sturdy material so it doesn’t break or bend when used in the strong wind.
Aluminum is an excellent choice because it’s lightweight, yet it’s durable enough to withstand the challenges of sailing in the wind. It’s also corrosion and rust-resistant, even when exposed to salty water. Stainless steel is a sturdier option and it’s more expensive, but it’s a bit heavier.
Regardless of the material, you should pick an easy-to-use mechanism, so you can set up and pull down the cover whenever you need to. Selecting a frame that comes with a warranty will be a big plus, so you can have the cover fixed if it doesn’t work smoothly.
Size and shape
Bimini tops come in several shapes and sizes, so you need to pick one that fits your pontoon boat. Depending on your preferences, the top can be designed to cover most or only half of your deck. Naturally, a bigger top will provide more shade, but if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds, you can definitely go for a smaller Bimini top.
You can also pick a rectangular top that covers most of the boat or a square one that provides more shade. Think of the number of people on your pontoon boat and the activities you’d like to use it for.
If you’re interested in lounging or taking a sunbath, then a smaller top will be a better action. A bigger cover will provide the needed protection for those who like spending time in the shade while reading or napping.
How Can I Maintain My Pontoon Bimini Top?
With proper maintenance, your pontoon Bimini top will last for long. Here are a few tips to follow to keep it in good shape.
- Don’t set the top up all the time. Instead, take it down whenever it’s not needed to extend its life.
- Remove the dust from your pontoon Bimini top and hose it, especially after taking your boat to the sea or ocean. Saltwater damage can damage the fabric in the long run.
- Don’t store the cover while it’s wet, as this can lead to the formation of mold and mildew. Instead, allow the top to dry in the sun before storage.
- Check all the screws and fittings on the frame before setting your Bimini top, as it might fly or get torn if it’s not correctly installed.
- Put the top down if you’re sailing at high speeds, as this can damage the frame and the fabric.
Wrap Up
A pontoon Bimini top is an excellent addition to your boat because it creates a shaded area while you’re enjoying your boating trip. There are different types of Bimini covers that you can choose from, so you need to pick a durable material and frame. Keep your Bimini cover clean and set it up only when needed to extend its life.