Finding the Ideal Bimini Top to Match Your Scout Boat Model

Finding the Perfect Bimini Top for Your Scout Boat

Owning a Scout boat opens up endless possibilities for fun and adventure out on the open water. With sleek, high-performance hulls and spacious interiors, Scout boats are ideal for watersports, fishing, or just cruising around the lake or bay. But to truly maximize days out on your Scout, investing in a few choice accessories can make all the difference.

One excellent upgrade for any Scout boat is adding a bimini top. These canvas canopy tops provide shade and shelter from the elements, allowing you to boat in comfort regardless of the weather. And with a wide variety of bimini top styles and configurations to choose from, you can find the perfect fit for your specific Scout model.

The Benefits of a Scout Boat Bimini Top

A well-chosen bimini top offers Scout boat owners several advantages:

• Shade from the sun - Biminis provide excellent sun protection while still allowing fresh breezes to flow through.
• Shelter from rain - The waterproof canvas materials used for bimini tops keep occupants dry if caught in a quick rain shower.
• Versatility - Many bimini tops allow you to only deploy portions of the canopy or remove it entirely as needed.
• Customization - Bimini tops come in a range of colors, materials, and configurations to match your boat's style.

Key Factors When Choosing a Scout Bimini

To select an ideal Scout boat bimini top, keep the following factors in mind:

• Boat model - The bimini top size and mounting style must be compatible with your specific Scout boat.
• Mounting location - Most Scout biminis mount behind the helm/console area but check exact positioning.
• Material - Polyester canvas or vinyl materials withstand marine conditions best.
• Frame type - Powder coated aluminum or stainless steel frames avoid corrosion.
• Color - Match or contrast the bimini color to your boat's style.

Popular Scout Boat Bimini Styles

When shopping for your Scout boat bimini upgrade, you'll encounter a few common top styles. The best match depends on your needs and budget.

Full-Coverage Biminis

As the name implies, these bimini tops provide complete sun and weather protection across a substantial portion of the boat's cockpit. The canvas top is sizable enough to shelter all rear-facing seats and the helm area.

Cockpit Biminis

For a more customizable level of coverage, cockpit bimini tops use individual canopies to cover the helm, aft seats, and other separate cockpit sections as needed. Configurations can change by simply sliding or pivoting the canvas into position.

T-Tops

For open boats like center console Scout models, T-top biminis only shelter the helm and companion seats. The sturdy t-shaped metal frame leaves the rest of the boat open yet covered.

Key Measurements for Fitting Your Scout Bimini

To ensure you select a bimini top that aligns neatly with your boat's existing hardware, there are a few key measurements to have on hand. These dimensions allow manufacturers to fabricate a custom-fit bimini tailored specifically to your Scout model.

Overall Top Dimensions

Provide accurate cockpit measurements between installation points - both width and length - to properly size the bimini's framework and canvas coverage area.

Console Width

For boats with a center helm and console, supply the console width. This allows matching the bimini top spread to overlap the console edge on both sides evenly.

Windshield Height

On Scout models equipped with a front windshield, note the windshield's total height above the helm. This helps align the bimini top to meet cleanly with the windshield frame.

Tips for Caring for Your Scout Bimini Top

Once your new custom-fit Scout boat bimini top is installed, just a little periodic care and maintenance will keep it looking shipshape for years. Follow these bimini care tips:

• Rinse the fabric with fresh water after boating to remove any salt, sand, and dirt.
• Allow the bimini to air dry before folding or storing to prevent mold or mildew.
• Use a conditioner made for marine canvas periodically to guard against UV damage.
• Check and tighten the bimini framework bolts if they become loose over time.
• Consider adding waterproof storage bags to keep spare bimini canvas when not in use.

Investing in a custom-fitted bimini opens up even more enjoyment of your Scout boat. With cooler cockpits, greater versatility, and protection from the elements, biminis deliver excellent value for all types of boaters. By selecting the optimal size, material, frame, and configuration for your model, you’ll enjoy this useful upgrade every time you hit the water.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of adding a bimini top to my Scout boat?

The key benefits of a Scout bimini top include better shade from the sun, shelter from rain showers, versatility to adjust coverage as needed, and the ability to customize the color and style.

What dimension measurements do I need to provide to get a bimini customized to fit my Scout model?

Critical dimensions needed are the cockpit width and length between mounting points, center console width if applicable, and windshield height on models so equipped.

What materials stand up best for bimini frames and fabric?

Powder coated aluminum or stainless steel frames resist corrosion. For fabric, marine-grade polyester canvas or vinyl withstand sun, saltwater, and moisture best.

What maintenance does a Scout bimini top require?

Rinse and air dry after use, apply canvas conditioner periodically, check and tighten framework bolts as needed, and consider canvas storage bags.