Thames based - Need a new Sun Canopy

[GAJ52]

I have recently bought a second hand Birchwood TS37, unfortunately it has a vinyl type cover which is extremely heavy and a pain to take off. I am based at Penton Hook Marina and most of the boats there seem have a blue lightweight canvas material which I would like to convert to for the summer (possibly 2014 now). Also I need a sun canopy for the upper Helm position as this is not to my knowledge a factory option.

I know there is a respected Trimmers at Penton Hook but from what I have read on various forums they are very busy and their customer service leaves a lot to be desired. Can anyone recommend anyone that could come to my boat and give me some ideas regarding a sun canopy and replacing the existing cover.

Thanks

Glen

 

[Freeman30]

I have recently bought a second hand Birchwood TS37, unfortunately it has a vinyl type cover which is extremely heavy and a pain to take off. I am based at Penton Hook Marina and most of the boats there seem have a blue lightweight canvas material which I would like to convert to for the summer (possibly 2014 now). Also I need a sun canopy for the upper Helm position as this is not to my knowledge a factory option.

I know there is a respected Trimmers at Penton Hook but from what I have read on various forums they are very busy and their customer service leaves a lot to be desired. Can anyone recommend anyone that could come to my boat and give me some ideas regarding a sun canopy and replacing the existing cover.

Thanks

Glen

I have been very impressed with Jekells

ttp://jeckells.net/canopies/i_9

I am convinced that any canopy should always been an improvement on the one before.

Best regards

 

[byron]

I have been very impressed with Jekells

I have used Jeckells too and found them very reliable even though they are based a long way away.

 

[GAJ52]

Its always good to get recommendations from satisfied customers I'll keep them in mind.

I looked on their website but couldn't find their location. I did see something about the Broad's so assume they are in Norfolk somewhere.

Any recommendations for somebody nearer to Chertsey.

 

[boatone]

Another recommendation for Jekells. They are on the Broads around Wroxham and Oulton Broad but I wouldn't let the distance away from the Thames put you off. Andrew Jekell travels to Thames locations regularly to both measure up and fit. Did a cover for my Pedro 36 and I was very pleased with the result.

There are two branches of the Jekells dynasty, the sail makers - http://jeckells.co.uk and the canopy and upholstery company http://www.jeckells.net which is the one you want.

Yes, they were busy, but I found them reliable and things happened within the timescale they promised.

 

[Cashbuyer]

I've used AM Marine, based at Windsor Marina
http://www.ammarine.co.uk/
Contact Tim. Great work, but lead time can be long if you are in a hurry. But worth the wait. Not the cheapest, but I think with Canopies you pay for what you get. I've learned the hard way previously...
Better to email him as he is hard to get hold of on the phone. Keeps appointments and has a good eye for detail.
He can easily make a bimini for your flybridge.
He's at his workshop on Saturday mornings, so might be worth a visit for a chat.
BTW not related or involved in the business.

 

[mlines]

Tim @ ammarine did a Bimini for us earlier this year...

 

[teddington_lock]

Jeff at PHM is the best , does loads of work for my father.

Can be a prickly guy , but don't mess him around and he won't get upset. They are very busy though , for obvious reasons ( see opening statement )

Did the hood on my little Quayline not so long ago , fantastic job. Would not hesitate to recommend him.

 

[oldgit]

As with all trimmers/sailmakers you may get a more welcoming reception and faster service if you order your new bit of kit in December and not August.
Common topic in boating circles about problems getting trimmers / canvas folks to do anything during summer.Can tell you of a tale of a large Fairline getting 90% of set of new covers which were never paid for due to supplier not finishing job and never asking for his money.