Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

[stephenson]

Did the measuring ...30 inches from floor to top edge of hull amidship. Biminis come in 42 and 54 inch heights (at least the standard non-custom versions from iBoat) measured from top edge of hull. Means mine would be at either 72" or 84". The first seems too short (I'm 6-1) ...and the later too tall.

I wanted to use stanchions for it lay back on and measuring a 45 angle from mounting area, the 42" version would be about neck height when laying back towards stern. Even the 54" just barely nets me walking height to the stern area.

I've seen many varieties and heights on Smith Mountain Lake (VA), but the ones that look the most useful are on deck boats where the extra height seems to look right ...on smaller, narrower boats the extra height seems sorta too much ...

Would appreciate comments and thoughts ... Thanks!

 

[26aftcab454]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

get one you can walk under.

 

[SDSeville]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

ezmobee turned me on to this company. They are very affordable and come in a 46" height, which should be just right for you. I have one on my 19' Sea Ray.

http://www.safeguardcovers.com/v/vspfiles/biminis/biminis.asp

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

SeaRay has been using great lakes boat top company for many many years for its original canvas and biminis. why not buy one from them?

 

[spdracr39]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

ezmobee turned me on to this company. They are very affordable and come in a 46" height, which should be just right for you. I have one on my 19' Sea Ray.

http://www.safeguardcovers.com/v/vspfiles/biminis/biminis.asp

I don't know about there bimini's but I bought a Safeguard boat cover and it was crap. It was very inexpensive so I figure I got what I paid for which is not so bad. The cover ripped after 1 year. I keep it in covered storage but the very back of the boat gets some sun and that's where it degraded. I shipped it back under warranty and they sent me the cheapest sorry replacement ever known to man and it lasted less than 6 months. I cut my losses and bought a better cover from I-boats Which works perfectly and is much higher quality for almost the same price.

Don't get it any higher than you have to and be sure it is compatable with the stanchions. I bought some as an after thought and to use them you had to drill out the rivets on the bimini frame to put them on then re-assemble it.

 

[coastalrichard]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

get one you can walk under.

ditto that one!!!

 

[SDSeville]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

I don't know about there bimini's but I bought a Safeguard boat cover and it was crap..

I certainly cannot speak about their covers, but the biminis seem great. I have only had mine for a few weeks, but I Christened it with a week of high winds and 120+ heat and it is holding up just fine. Unless you leave your boat uncovered, the bimini will not get near the exposure that a cover will.

Plus, ezmobee has had his over a year and says his is holding up great. While their covers may indeed be crap, you don't always have to pay twice as much to get a decent bimini.

 

[V153]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

Yes. Whatever you do. Do not consult your local friendly canvas shop. Don't get a top custom fit to your boat and/or personal specifications.

No. Better to buy some pos one size fits all 'online'. Made in some overseas sweatshop. So's ya can save a few bucks.

 

[SDSeville]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

Yes. Whatever you do. Do not consult your local friendly canvas shop. Don't get a top custom fit to your boat and/or personal specifications.

No. Better to buy some pos one size fits all 'online'. Made in some overseas sweatshop. So's ya can save a few bucks.

I am sorry if I offended the local friendly canvas shop owners. I am sure your products are top quality.

There are plenty of people out there who are able and happy to pay a ton of money when they don't necessarily need to. However, some of us (including those with multiple kids in college at the same time and no money tree in the backyard), don't feel it would be prudent to spend $450+ for something we could get for $150. It may not be custom, but it does the same job.

 

[26aftcab454]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

I am sorry if I offended the local friendly canvas shop owners. I am sure your products are top quality.

There are plenty of people out there who are able and happy to pay a ton of money when they don't necessarily need to. However, some of us (including those with multiple kids in college at the same time and no money tree in the backyard), don't feel it would be prudent to spend $450+ for something we could get for $150. It may not be custom, but it does the same job.

yes indeed buy one you like!

 

[JASinIL2006]

Re: Bimini options for SeaRay 195BR

I just picked up a Carver bimini top for my Larson 186 bowrider, and I am really impressed with the quality of the materials, especially the canvas work. Really good craftsmanship, and not that expensive.