Bimini tops

[Magnum]

I need a bimini top for the new boat. Only one problem - the one Princess offer, made by Flexicovers, doesn't cover the rear main seating area, which is where most people will sit whilst eating.

Look forward of the radar arch.

Now check out the gap from bimini to arch.

Flexicovers say I have 2 choices. Pay lots of money to have custom one off design or they will add zip-on section to rear of bimini that clips onto radar arch using those little spikey stud things. Not sure I like the idea of either. Any other suggestions?

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

Its one of the disadvantages of the current fad for flybridge layouts with the sitting area aft and the helm area forward. The old Princess layout with the sitting area opposite the helm is much better as a smaller bimini can cover both areas
Dont think you've got a choice other than extend it to the radar arch providing it still gives enough headroom. In the Med its going to be permanently erected half the year anyway and the attachment is going to give the bimini some stability 'coz they're a bit floppy when it's windy
The other thing to consider is that you're probably not going to be sitting down for a meal on the flybridge anyway. Its much easier to eat in the cockpit 'coz its closer to the galley and the booze cabinet

 

[jfm]

I wouldn't assume flexicovers is only manufacturer. For our boat at least three canvas firms make up the biminis from stock designs at non custom prices. Each is slightly different design. So try the other big cover firms - none of whose names I can remeber at this time of night. CJ Textiles maybe?

The fill in piece sounds ok ish so long as it's well made. The little stud catches sound the worst part - aluminium "awning channel" track powder coated white would be neater. The thing will be up for 6 months of the year so you wont have to fasten/undo the catches/tracks very often, nor look at the awning channel. But an extra stainless hoop would be better, i mean one that hinged off the rear-most hoop in the pic and came back to within say 3 inches of radar arch, with just a couple of ties back to the arch

Intrigued to see bimini on pred 56/63 (?) in foreground. Never seen a bimini on one of them before

 

[tcm]

the awning channel is longer lasting in white plastic. Or at least, my ally stuff smashed a bit and replced it with plastic.

Also, for spain, and esp if you are having a spacial cover, i wd consider having little flaps of extra material to give shade for one side cos late in the afternoon it is hot on one side depending on how anchored. You can do this with hidden zips and one reversible piece of material fits either side.

 

[Captain Coochie]

overtons hope this helps
http://www.overtons.com/