If you have a Pontoon boat or have thought about possessing one, it may be because of the unparalleled blend of cheapness and welcoming casual design compared to larger, more expensive water vessels. There is no better freshwater craft that seems more suitable for catching fish, taking in a marvelous view, or just enjoying the company of friends while crossing small bodies of water. The experience, however, will not be pleasant for long, as the occupants sizzle beneath the rays of the sun or get inundated by rain. To derive the most satisfaction from your pontoon riding experience, you may want to buy a raised protective canopy, most popularly known as a Bimini top.
Bimini tops are named after the island of their origin, {whose fishermen are credited with its creation to protect them from the elements}. Bimini tops today do the same thing, though they are built from sturdier materials. The two critical factors that you must consider when purchasing a Bimini top are: (a) the measurements of the top, (b) the type of fabric.
First, you must select a bimini top for a pontoon that fits your pontoon boat correctly. This requires that you acquire three measurements of your boat. For width, just measure the distance across your boat from gunnel to gunnel, with some allowance for the mounting frame. The top can be any length you desire that you feel will give you enough shade from the weather. Length is more subjective, but preferably you would want a top long enough to shield a certain average number of passengers at any given period, with extra fabric extended above if you want extra protection. Lastly, to measure height, attach a pole across the boat where the mounting brackets will be positioned, then measure upwards to the height that you desire. For pontoon boats, the perfect height for the top is one where you can walk underneath without having to bend over, for greater mobility. The height of the top may hinder boat speed, but that doesn’t matter on a pleasure cruise.
Selecting the proper Bimini top fabric concerns striking the proper balance of cost versus longevity. Cotton-based tops are the cheapest, made of textiles similar to canvas, and are an acceptable option if you’re strapped for cash and won’t take your pontoon boat out much. Cotton tops are weak against ultraviolet (UV) rays, prone to leaking, and may tear apart over time unless put away safely. Vinyl tops are a very popular choice since they are simple to clean, solid enough to provide protection from the rain, and are normally resistant to UV rays and fungal rot. Acrylic and treated polyester tops are quite costly by comparison, but also very tough, highly resistant to scratching and fading, and strong enough for regular outdoor activity. They appear capable of enduring the rigors of fishing in hot sun and driving rain. Acrylic and polyester would be a wise investment for the professional pontoon boater. Companies like Sunbrella provide exceptional original fabrics that supply optimal protection for the right price.
Choose wisely. A good Bimini top often spells the difference between a refreshing time out in the water, and being tortured by rainfall and sunburn before you are forced to beat a hasty retreat to shore.
