This universal boat cover offers protection from rain, moisture, UV rays, and mildew.

Choosing a marine boat cover doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow these three easy steps to find the right size and cover type for your boat.

1. Decide on the type of boat cover you need.

First, you need to decide between a trailerable, storage, or mooring cover. Each is designed specifically for the function it will perform.

Next, you need to decide what type of fit you want: universal, semi-custom, and custom. Universal, the most cost-effective choice, fits a range of boat sizes. Semi-custom fits specific boat types and sizes and gives a more custom fit for a slightly higher price tag. Custom is designed for your specific boat and accessories for a fit that’s just right, but it will cost you more than a universal or semi-custom boat cover.

Finally, you need to decide on the level of protection you want. Boat covers are available in different levels of breathability, thickness, UV protection, water resistance, mildew resistance, and other features.

2. Measure your boat.

Measure the boat’s centerline from bow to stern. Do not measure up and over the windshield. Instead, measure in a straight line.

Keep in mind that factors like swim decks, platforms, and other accessories that you want covered will affect the required length of the boat cover. If you want these accessories covered, measure your boat from the bow to the furthest point that extends out from the stern.

Next, measure the beam width at the widest point of the boat.



3. Use the boat measurements to help you find the right cover.

Even if the boat cover description states that it is designed to fit your boat type, always check the boat measurements against the cover measurements to ensure a proper fit.

Check the boat cover sizing chart, if provided, or check the boat cover description to find the length of the boat cover. Then check the max beam width to make sure the cover is wide enough to protect your boat.

Look for notes on sizing, such as “not for cabin/console boats” or “not for extra tall windshields,” that may apply to your boat.

Once you receive your boat cover, try it out on your boat to make sure it fits, and keep the purchase receipt and warranty information in case anything goes wrong in the future.

Support your boat cover with a PVC frame.

A boat cover support prevents sagging.

Why Use a Boat Cover Support?

To keep water and snow from collecting on your boat cover, you will need to use some type of boat cover support. This support system will keep the cover from sagging and will prevent excess moisture buildup.

You can either purchase a ready-made boat cover support system, or you can make your own with materials from your local hardware store. Making your own boat cover support is fairly easy, and you can easily customize the fit for your boat.

Tips on Building Your Own Boat Cover Support

1 1/2 inch PVC pipe is a popular choice for a boat cover frame. It’s sturdier than one inch PVC pipe, so it’s less likely to break under the weight of snow and ice.

Use one long pipe from bow to stern and add several pipes as cross braces from side to side down the length of the boat. Arched PVC pipes can help prevent puddles from forming on your cover. Moisture will slide right off the boat cover and onto the ground.

Here’s another tip to protect your boat cover and boat: If the windshield or other edges are too sharp, cover them with padding, such as foam insulation tubes slit down the middle. This keeps your cover from tearing on sharp edges.