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Motor Boat Forum

Is it possible.......

by Carl » 11 May 2015, 17:35

........ To make a Bimini into a all over type cover so we can use it as the weather turns cooler .....

This is Vonny with her Bimini up.
Image

and how the frame sits
Image

What we are wanting to do is to fill in the open bits with clear window type material to close in the deck (not the bow) which would make her more useable as the weather turns cooler . ....
Carl .. Bayliner 175gt "Annamarie"
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by mlines » 11 May 2015, 18:08

Effectively that is what our cover is, although it is a factory standard fitment

A few things to be aware of:

1. There are dire warnings in our handbook about using it above crawling speed.
2. Having seen a few on Thames boats, it is very easy to get the look completely wrong!
3. You will need ventilation to keep the exhaust fumes down.
4. You need to order now as most canvas makers have up to 6 months waiting list

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by Carl » 11 May 2015, 19:16

Hmmm .....

Yours looks very good 8-)

Vonny is a bow rider ... think I'm going to have to think about this properly ...
Carl .. Bayliner 175gt "Annamarie"
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by Xboatboyx » 11 May 2015, 19:44

Bowriders under 20ft don't usually have camper covers as they are just day boats. I think it will be difficult to make a look right on a smaller boat if you are concerned about looks ;). Here is a 185 with a camper cover to give you an idea.

http://www.bootssattlerei-hallier.de/bo ... r-185.html


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by Carl » 11 May 2015, 20:00

Thanks .....

Am I correct in thinking my 175 is shorter than the 185 ??

Yup .. as I suspected ... think I will be leaving Vonnys Bimini as it is ...
Carl .. Bayliner 175gt "Annamarie"
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by Xboatboyx » 11 May 2015, 20:28

Yes the 175 is a tad shorter. TBH i don't think the camper cover is really necessary on a bowrider, we looked into it for our 185 and i couldn't see how it would look right on a boat that wasn't designed for one.
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by Bigplumbs » 12 May 2015, 07:09

Interestingly I was thinking of the exact same thing for my fletcher. Again to be used if you want a pootle up the river when the weather is not so good. No idea if anyone makes one for a fletcher or how much they cost

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by betty boop » 12 May 2015, 07:43

there is a factory fit cover avaialble, ur frame is slightly different to mine but that effectively what Ive got on Betty. clear windows down the side complete canvas from top of screen to the rear seat with access zips. for use when motoring slowly but yes the manual does give warnings for fumes etc though as Martin says.

We use it for camping on betty, Used it. blow up bed and a tight squeeze and a bit of planning but doable.

Havent got any pic with it up im afraid but Mr Google may be able to help
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by sprocker » 12 May 2015, 08:53

There are a couple of Bayliner Bowriders in Torquay Marina with full camper covers (I'm unsure whether they are 175 or 185).

They are on the G pontoon so can easily be seen from the prom. If you fancy a closer look let me know.
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by Carl » 12 May 2015, 20:27

ooo that's handy to learn ... Thanks Sprocker. 8-)
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