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Bimini Top Basics

Clint

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The concept of the Bimini top literally dates back decades, providing shelter from hot and sunny environments. While these tops are mostly utilized to provide shade from the sun, they can also protect riders from some light rain and salt spray. The initial purpose of the Bimini top was and still is to provide shade while allowing you to enjoy time on water without the scorching sun beating down on you, your boat, and your equipment.

A Bimini top consists of a metal frame with a fabric top that can be easily installed and opened for use, then collapsed when not needed. Most tops can be assembled quickly and effortlessly with a few basic tools in a timely manner.

History

The Bimini top was created in the Tropic of Cancer on the island of Bimini. Because of the extremely intense sun, there was a strong need for Bimini tops here and in other island locations throughout the world. Bimini tops are now commonly used in lakes, rivers, and seas everywhere. Basic, free standing Bimini tops are most common, but full enclosures and other styles of tops are also available.

maroon sun-dura bimini top

Styles Available

We have many Bimini top styles available to accommodate for your particular boat.

Need a Bimini top for a pontoon boat, or perhaps just a replacement canvas? Check those out here: Pontoon Bimini Tops

Need a Bimini top for a boat with a tower, but don’t want to drill into its frame? We have those too: Tower Bimini Tops- No Drilling Required

Tired of letting your Bimini top up and down each time you are done using it? We have a solution: Fully Automatic Bimini Top

Want a top with a stainless frame, AND fittings too? We can help: Full Stainless Bimini Top

A low profile Bimini top would work perfect on your bowrider or ski boat: Super Sport Bimini Top

man driving boat on lake with Bimini top up

Bimini Top Sizes

Depending on the size and style of boat you have, you may require a taller top for standing under or a shorter top for sitting down. Many center console and deck boats  which are frequently used for fishing may call for a larger top to allow the occupants more room when baiting their hook or casting their rod. A runabout boat would require a shorter height, as a Bimini top on that style of boat will conventionally mount to the wing of the windshield.

With many different size bimini tops available, it can often be difficult to pick the best size for you. We take the guess work out of choosing your size with videos on how to measure for your top. After you view our video, you can choose your size here: Bimini Top Size Finder

[vc_video title=”Link To Video on How to Measure” link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwusoqwbdHQ” shadow=”yes” width=”1/1″ el_position=”first last”]

Boat Covers Direct® Can Help!

Boat Covers Direct® offers a variety of material and color selections by Carver Industries to help match your boats’ scheme perfectly. Acrylic and polyester tops are the best materials for most weather conditions. Our solution dyed fabrics are best for sunny climates, as they are able to offer superior color retention. Our Bimini tops are usually sold with nylon fittings but can be economically upgraded to stainless fittings for salt-water surroundings.

Call us and mention this post to receive a 10% discount. Check out our great top selection here.

people hanging out on two boats in the water on a sunny day

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