Pontoon boats come pre-fitted with Bimini tops that provide protection to the occupants from sun and rain. However, you may have an older pontoon boat without a Bimini, or your current Bimini may need replacement.
Additionally, the amount of shade provided your 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.
This guide provides information on pontoon boat tops, their design and features, considerations before purchasing, manufacturers, and maintenance. Pontoon boat tops includes Biminis, double Biminis, and Bimini extensions.
If you are in a rush, below are a few of our favorite pontoon boat Biminis, double Biminis, and extensions.
| Image | Title | Why We Like | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | SureShade Power Bimini | Best Power Bimini |  | Check Price |
 | Naviskin Bimini | Best Bimini |  | Check Price |
 | Cypress Rowe Double Bimini | Best Double Bimini | | Check Price |
 | SureShade Bimini Extension | Best Bimini Extension | | Check Price |
Pontoon Boat Top Benefits
Pontoon boat tops includes Biminis, double Biminis, and Bimini extensions. The importance of a pontoon boat top can not be overemphasized, and their benefits are below.
Comfort and Shade
A pontoon boat top provides shade to those on board. They allow passengers to bask in the sun’s rays, but also provide comfort to those wanting to escape the sun.
Weather can change very quickly and rain can fall at any time. A pontoon boat top is setup quickly and easily to combat weather changes and keep passengers dry.
Protection
A pontoon boat top acts like a roof and protects the on-board valuables. It covers the boat’s interior, the cockpit, the electronics, and other accessories. Thereby reducing the risk of malfunction and damage. Additionally, the pontoon boat top protects paint and gel surfaces from peeling.
Adjustability
A pontoon boat top is easily adjusted to cover certain parts of the boat. Also, they can easily be deployed and removed as needed with some even being automatic.
How To Select A Pontoon Boat Top
Size
Prior to purchasing the pontoon boat top, you must know the desired width, length, and height. Determining the width is quite easy as its set by the width of the pontoon boat. For the length, determine how much of the pontoon boat you would like covered for your activities (lounging, fishing, partying, etc.). Last but not least, select a height that allows all passengers to easily maneuver on board without hitting their head.
Note: Most boats come with a BIN number at the boat’s tail. It contains all this information necessary to select and properly size a pontoon boat top.
Fabric
There are different fabrics with various characteristics. Knowing the right fabric to choose will help one make the best decision. Sunbrella marine fabric is the most recognized fabric brand available for pontoon boat Biminis, double Biminis and Bimini extensions.
Color
Pontoon boat tops come in many different fabric colors. Ensure you select the best fabric color that provides an exact match or compliment to your pontoon boat.
Storage
Not all pontoon boats come with a Bimini storage boot. A Bimini storage boot is an absolute must have accessory to protect and store the Bimini when not in use.
Pontoon Boat Biminis
Design and Features
A Bimini is a removable open-front cover consisting of a metal frame with a canvas on top. They are either fixed or retractable. Some retractable Biminis are automatic with an electric motor to draw them back and forth. Here is a list of our favorite pontoon boat Bimini manufacturers.
Bimini Manufacturers
SureShade Pontoon Boat Power Bimini
The SureShade electric power Bimini is specifically designed for pontoon boats. You can purchase the Sureshade with full confidence that it will fit your pontoon boat perfectly. This Bimini is 10′ long with an adjustable width from 92″ to 102″. Most importantly, the SureShade Bimini is powered and goes up and down with the touch of a button! People who have purchased the SureShade electric power Bimini are pleased with the quality of the product.
Naviskin Pontoon Boat Bimini
The Naviskin Bimini is a very popular Bimini. It is extremely versatile with 13 different sizes available, and every size is also available in 10 different colors. The Naviskin Bimini comes complete with all of the necessary components and hardware to mount to your boat. Although the vast majority of owners gave it 5 stars, there are a few owners who felt the material was thin, and the original hardware was a little loose requiring replacement.
Leader Accessories Pontoon Boat Bimini
Leader Accessories has been a mainstay in marine accessories for over 30 years. Their Bimini top is a high quality item that comes highly recommended. They also manufacturer a Bimini top especially for boats with wakeboard towers. Leader Accessories offers a bunch of sizes so make sure you properly measure your pontoon boat prior to purchasing.
MSC Pontoon Boat Bimini
MSC makes a nice Bimini top as well. They have different models available in a whole range of colors including gray, tan, burgundy, navy, royal blue, forest green, and black. People who purchase the MSC Bimini are pleased with the purchase considering it’s relatively inexpensive compared to other manufacturers. Previous buyers recommend replacing the provided hardware with higher quality hardware because the provided screws are a cheap plastic. Also of note, the canvas is not an OEM quality heavy duty canvas.
Pontoon Boat Double Biminis
Design and Features
Pontoon boat double Biminis possess many top features. 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. Manufacturers may use cotton, or even standard sewing thread, and this should be avoided because the Bimini will not last longer than six months.
Double Bimini Manufacturers
Cypress Rowe Pontoon Boat Double Bimini
The double Bimini from Cypress Rowe is an awesome offer. Their complete kit comes with a 17′ double Bimini made from 16 oz. canvas, square metal tubing, and metal fittings. Their double Bimini is unlike others because both sections can be used independently of the other. A transition piece links them together, and is easily removed.
They have a very unique canvas. The 16 oz. canvas is very durable, and it’s a 20 year engineered canvas that has been under development for upwards of 10 years. The canvas is a woven material that is made from engineered polyester thread, not cotton. This method ensures longevity, quality, appearance, and reliability.
Their unique and durable design is entirely backed with a lifetime warranty! Complete warranty on all components, even the canvas. The canvas will not fade!
Carver Industries Pontoon Boat 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.
National Pontoon Boat Double Bimini
National 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.
Pontoon Boat Bimini Extensions
Design and Features
Pontoon boat Bimini extensions can be attached to the frame of the factory 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.
Bimini Extension Manufacturers
SureShade Bimini Extension
The SureShade Bimini extension is specifically designed to attach to the previously presented SureShade powered Bimini top. The Bimini extension is made with a poly coated 70D ripstop nylon. That material stands up to the elements, and it’s waterproof due to a durable water repellant finish. The Bimini extension can be easily stored in the SureShade Power Bimini zippered compartment. The package includes the extension, stanchion poles, and mounting hardware for easy installation. For the Bimini extension to work properly, you will need to install permanent locking plates on the top rails of your pontoon boat.
Note: The SureShade Bimini Extension is only compatible with 2022 and newer SureShade bimini canvas with a front zipper pocket.
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.
Westland Extend The Shade
The Westland extend the shade is made to be install at the stern and attached to an existing Bimini. It gets excellent reviews and people are very impressed with the high quality of the fabric and extra two pole for a relatively low price. It is made to protect you from the sun and is very easy to setup and take down.
Gazebos
The Gazebo shade top will hover above the front bow of your pontoon boat providing you with the much needed shade plus a good view of the water. It should be noted that a Gazebo will obstruct the driver’s vision and hence is not to be used when the boat is in motion. It is designed so that you get shade while anchored or moored.
The Taylor Made Gazebos will provide you with an easy and quick way to gain additional shaded area on your pontoon boat. It can accommodate both 96″ and 102″ wide pontoon boats and also extends out to 8 feet of coverage. The Gazebo is being constructed from Hot Shot polyester fabric of marine grade which is both UV and mildew resistant. The shock corded fiberglass pole framework support system will break down for easy storage. Shade top, frame, marine grade hardware, and storage bag are included.
How To Maintain Your Pontoon Boat Top
Pontoon boat tops need to be well maintained to keep them in shape and performing well. The following are ways to maintain a pontoon boat top.
Regular Cleaning
Clean the pontoon top with a boat cleaner and water using a light brush. Allow the cleaning solution to soak into the pontoon top as you brush; this will ensure the dirt is removed. After cleaning, allow the pontoon boat top to completely dry and follow up with a spray-on fabric guard to restore water repellency.
Note: Do not use a washing solution that isn’t suited for boat tops.
Clean Accessories
The stainless steel buttons, buckles, and aluminum rods must be cleaned after every use. Doing so will prevent them from corroding. Preferably, use a soft sponge or a cloth to clean.
Storage
Keep the pontoon boat top in its storage boot when not in use. Also, ensure the pontoon boat top is clean before keeping it in storage.
Consider Wind
Don’t drive the pontoon boat at high speed when it’s windy. The pontoon boat top may become unsteady, and it might come off. Drive cautiously when there are high winds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Biminis, 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. Biminis, double biminis, and Bimini 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.
