Unlike a car that has a roof to protect it from the adverse effects of weather, a pontoon boat is directly exposed to the forces of nature. This is where pontoon boat enclosures become quite handy. They provide privacy, and protection from the hot sun and its UV rays. When you are caught on the water in the middle of a thunderstorm, these enclosures can help provide protection. Enclosures transform your boat into a floating lodge and are great for long trips.
Why Pontoon Boat Enclosures?
It’s imperative to protect your pontoon boat to maintain its value. Enclosures are the perfect tool to protect your pontoon boat from mother nature. They cover the entire pontoon boat, which helps keep the entire boat clean. When combined with a pontoon boat lift, enclosures provide additional security and protection.
Pontoon boat enclosures run the length of your pontoon boat and include a roof and full sides with windows. They offer comprehensive protection from the weather when sailing and when the boat is moored. For someone with a large pontoon boat, who sails for long durations with multiple passengers, the enclosure is ideal. The best enclosures are made custom from high-quality, durable, and weatherproof material such as acrylic fabric. Isinglass is commonly employed for plastic windows.
Pontoon Boat Full Enclosures
Pre-Installed vs Custom Fitted
Enclosures might be added in the package when ordering a boat or they might be retrofitted. Pre-installed enclosures are generally top notch as they are manufactured and installed by the boat company. Doing so ensures the best materials and a professional installation.
After market pontoon boat enclosures can go both ways. A well trained professional custom fitter will fit an enclosure very close to the original. While an unqualified installater will not be as proficient and may make a mess of the job. It is best to add an enclosure when ordering a pontoon boat.
Pontoon Boat Enclosure Manufacturers
Here are a few companies who specialize in making full pontoon boat enclosures.
Paul’s Custom Canvas, Inc.
Paul’s Custom Canvas is synonymous with high-quality full pontoon boat enclosures. They custom make every enclosure for your pontoon boat. Since everything is custom, they make the enclosure and the windows out of anything you want. However, they have earned their spot as experts, so if you follow their recommendations you are guaranteed to be satisfied with the end result. We understand the word “custom” means higher costs and longer lead times. But, when you need a one-of-a-kind item, then that’s the route you have to go!
Lavignes Canvas Co.
Lavigne’s Canvas Co., Canada formed in 1995 has been working in North Bay and surrounding areas. Their top quality craftsmanship results in many reliable and durable pontoon boat enclosures. The marine canvas and upholstery materials used are of superior quality. They use Top Gun, Sunbrella, Costguard, Harbor Time, YKK zippers, UV protected threads and DOT fasteners. The materials are offered a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty.
With the full pontoon boat enclosures, you can create a cozy living space for your family and friends. It covers the complete pontoon seating area with full protection from the elements. Thereby, which your pontoon boat can be turned into a RV on the water.
If the full pontoon enclosure is too much, then you can scale down to a half pontoon enclosure. The half pontoon enclosure can cover the rear section of the boat up to the helm area. Also with these custom luxury pontoon enclosures, you can have the most stylish pontoon boat on the water.
Ameritex Direct
Ameritex Technologies merged with Taylor Made in 2009 to become Ameritex Fabric Systems. From Ameritex Direct, you can select high-quality, well engineered, and great fitting pontoon boat tops and enclosures. Based on the make and model of the pontoon boat, Ameritex Direct can supply you with the exact enclosure based on the manufacturers specifications. The enclosures are available with a frame or fabric only. The enclosures are quick and easy installation without much worry. You also have access to replacement parts as well.
Dowco Marine Products
Dowco Marine Products prides itself in being an innovator in aftermarket pontoon boat products and accessories, and they are not lacking in the pontoon boat enclosure department! One benefit of Dowco (based out of Manitowoc, Wisconsin) is that they have pre-made enclosures for a large number of common pontoon boat models. They have a huge selection available, so fingers crossed your pontoon boat model is on their list.
Dowco is the OEM manufacturer for a number of boat brands including Tracker, Lowe, G3, Crestliner, Lund, Xpress, Veranda, Mirrocraft, Harris, Barletta, Landau, Alumacraft, Ranger, Triton, Nitro, Tahoe, SunTracker, Premier, Hurricane, and Silverwave. So, if you are looking for an enclosure for one of those brands, chances are pretty good that you can find one from Dowco.
Canvas Craft
Canvas Craft is another custom pontoon boat enclosure manufacturer who is based in Otsego, MN. They make a number of different products out of canvas so chances are if you can dream it they can make it! Making pontoon boat enclosures doesn’t appear to be their “specialty” but, they certainly appear to be able to make anything that you would want for your pontoon boat. Feel free to give them a call and see what they can do!
Pontoon Boat Half Enclosures
A pontoon boat with a half enclosure will have some part of it covered. These are generally installed in the center of the boat but a bit more towards the stern. These are best for small boats and people who are traveling in small groups. Custom half pontoon boat enclosures may start around $2000. If you can find a stock half enclosure or a Bimini extension, then they are a lot less expensive.
Taylor Made Bow Enclosure
Where Taylor Made really shines in pontoon boat enclosures is their “additional” products offerings that other manufacturers don’t offer. The TaylorMade Bow Enclosure offers a spacious enclosure which provides comfort and convenience. It is constructed from polyester fabric shell which is fire retardant and durable. They have a zippered entryway and mesh windows. The bow enclosure is supported by shock corded fiberglass pole framework. With the large interior radius, you can sit comfortably without bending or crouching. The interior created by this shock corded fiberglass pole framework allows for plenty of headroom.
The Pontoon Boat Bow Enclosure measures approximately 56″ L x 74″ H. It can fit both 96″ and 102″ width pontoon boats. The permanent hardware needs to be installed first. With the instruction manual, you can set up or break down the bow enclosure within minutes for easy storage. As the enclosure is available in multiple colors, you can best match them with your existing Bimini or canvas. A storage bag is included for convenience.
TaylorMade Playpen Enclosure
The Taylormade playpen shade is another quick and easy way to gain some additional shaded area on your pontoon boat. It will also protect your pontoon boat seats not only from the harmful UV rays but also from the other harsh weather conditions. However, it can block driver’s view and should not be used underway.
The Taylormade playpen shade is available in sizes which can accommodate pontoon boats up to 102″ wide, extending out to cover 12′. It is constructed from marine grade Hot Shot™ polyester fabric. The fabric is resistant to both UV and mildew. The adjustable straps with quick release buckles make way for fast and simple installation. It can be secured to the front bow of your existing Bimini and down to the playpen railing. The playpen shade folds down to a compact size allowing for easy storage. It is available in nine color options so that you can have the best match for your pontoon boat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pontoon boat enclosures are must-have accessories that provide essential protection and comfort for your time on the water. Whether shielding passengers from harsh sun, rain, or wind, these enclosures create a more enjoyable and versatile boating experience. Enclosures extend the usability of your pontoon boat in various weather conditions, making it a cozy space for extended outings. With their durability and ease of installation, investing in a pontoon boat enclosure ensures your boat is always ready for all-season adventures.
