Pontoon boats come pre-fitted with Bimini tops that provide protection to the occupants from sun and rain. However, the amount of shade provided by the Bimini may not cover all the seats. This is the case, especially, in medium and large size pontoon boats. In such cases, one option is to replace the factory Bimini with a double Bimini. A pontoon boat Bimini extension is another choice available to those not in favor of replacing their existing Bimini.
Below is information on design, features, and top manufacturers for both double Biminis and Bimini extensions.
Double Bimini Design and Features
There are many top features of pontoon boat double Biminis. Rear support poles keep the frame strong against the wind. They are preferred over pontoon boat full enclosures because they provide protection without enclosing the whole pontoon and intruding the passenger’s view. On the other hand, in the case you would like full sun exposure, double Biminis fold back easily. While rear support poles stabilize the frame against the wind, you should be sure to keep the top folded back when picking up speed to avoid damage.
Solution dyed polyester fabric is the best type of material for marine application. The yarn is dyed before it is made into solution dyed fabric. This means the color is more vibrant and resists fading much better than fabric dyed after being woven. Sometimes companies use cotton for their double Biminis, or even standard sewing thread, and this should be avoided because the Bimini will not last longer than six months. Sunbrella marine fabric is the most recognized fabric brand available for pontoon boat double Biminis and Bimini extensions.
Bimini Extension Design and Features
Pontoon boat Bimini extensions can be attached to the frame of the factory fitted Bimini to increase the coverage area. Hence, eliminating the need of replacing it completely. They utilize anodized aluminum frames to reduce the risk of corrosion caused by saltwater. Some of these extensions make use of zippers and are easy to attach. Others extend the frame by adding bows for installation of additional canvas for more protection.
The pontoon boat Bimini extensions are available in different materials and finishes so they match the design of the existing frame. They fit seamlessly into the existing décor of the boat without appearing as an eye sore. The fabric is also available in multiple finishes and colors.
Pontoon Boat Bimini Extension Manufacturers
There are quite a few options available when it comes to pontoon boat Bimini extensions.
Taylor Made Bimini Extension
Many people recognize “Taylor Made” from their golf products. However, I just found out that Taylor Made golf is a completely separate company from Taylor Made Products who specializes in marine products. They make a wide range of shades for pontoon boats including Bimini tops, playpen shades, gazebos, full pontoon enclosures, and privacy enclosures. They have quite the reputation in the marine products world, and the quality of their products, including their pontoon boat Bimini extension will not disappoint!
Oceansouth Bimini Extension
Oceansouth has been making marine products for over 30 years, and the first product that they started with in 1986 was a DIY Bimini kit. They are more popular in Europe and Asia than the US, but they now have a presence in Florida and are starting to sell their products nationwide. There are not a lot of true pontoon boat Bimini extensions on the market, but the Oceansouth bimini extension is one of them and has good reviews.
People who have purchased this Bimini extension are impressed with the quality of the fabric and the poles, and they are confident the product will last for years. Some have made minor adjustments to tighten the top, but overall people are very pleased with the product.
Pontoon Boat Double Bimini Manufacturers
Another pontoon boat double bimini tops manufacturer is Westland. Westland Tops are available in Sharkskin or Sunbrella and come in many different colors. Sunbrella is 100% Acrylic and weighs 9.25 oz per square yard. It’s water repellent, breathable, and UV resistant.
Carver Industries Double Bimini
Carver is one of the leading brands on pontoon boat double Biminis. They offer Square Tube Double Biminis designed specifically for pontoon boats 22′ or longer. The top offers 16′ of coverage and shade. All the buckles, hooks, fasteners and straps are made of stainless steel. The canvas is made of marine grade acrylic to ensure a quality build. The double Biminis fit seamlessly into the design of the boat thanks to the 1-inch satin-finish square tubes and the numerous fabric color options. The fabric materials are either solution dyed marine acrylic or Sun-Dura.
North Star Double Bimini
With over 35 years of experience, North Star is another fabricator of pontoon boat double Biminis. They are proudly made in the USA. Their offerings are available in sizes varying from 14′ to 20′. These include a front top and a rear top that are zipped together by a piece of fabric allowing for one large or two separate Biminis. The package also consists of a storage boot, straps, braces and disconnect pull pins to retract the Bimini. They are available in widths ranging from 7’ to 8’6”. Fabrics available include Letom with a 5-year warranty and Sunbrella with a 10-year warranty. Besides the 1” standard frame, 1” and 1.25” metal frames are also available.
National Double Bimini
National Bimini Tops also provides pontoon boat double Biminis. They are proudly made in North America. Their double Biminis are 17′ long and 54″ high. They are available in two widths, one for 91″ to 96″ wide pontoons, and another for 97″ to 103″ wide pontoon boats. There are two fabric options available with multiple color options. One fabirc is Sunbrella with 8-year warranty, and the other is Summerset with a 3-year warranty. The frame is 1” and has rear poles for added support with a 40 MPH speed rating. These are easy to assemble to install and comes with a storage boot.
Conclusion
In conclusion, double Biminis and Bimini extensions offer pontoon boat owners enhanced versatility and comfort, providing expanded shade for passengers and increased protection from the elements. These additions not only enhance the boating experience on hot, sunny days by covering more seating areas, but they also offer flexibility by allowing sections to be easily removed or adjusted based on preference. Double biminis and extensions can be valuable upgrades for boaters who prioritize extended outings and additional coverage, making them a practical choice for families, frequent boaters, or anyone looking to maximize comfort and functionality on their pontoon boat.