sailboat bimini and dodger

Sailcovers, dodgers & Sailboat biminis

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Sailboat Covers & Enclosures

A bimini for your sail boat is the perfect protection against the elements; wind, rain, sun or mosquitoes. Be comfortable in your yacht at anytime, anywhere. We proudly offer high quality Bimini’s that are specifically designed for your boat using fabrics such as Stamoid and Sunbrella that are not only durable but also waterproof, flexible, mildew resistant and available in many colors!

Frames fabricated by our Trademark, Patented H2ube or the option of the stainless steel tubing.

Hallett Canvas & Sails, Inc. has 26 years experience manufacturing various designs of dodger’s suitable for each individual customer and their boats. Hallett dodgers are carefully built ensuring structural integrity as well as years of performance. Dodgers will add the comfort, protection and style to your boat. Custom design your own dodger or see our dodger design page for some potential options that fit you and your sailboat.

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Get out of the sun for the afternoon. This cover protects the cockpit from light rain and sun without the use of bows. Awnings can also help ventilate your boat in an array of weather conditions allowing hatches and companionways to be open and covered from rain or sun. Awnings work well with dodger and bimini’s. It is easy to use, just zip the front to the dodger and insert an awning pole in the back and your done! All awnings are made using the finest outdoor fabrics such as Sunbrella and Stamoid and more.

Sail Covers

All sails should be protected from U.V. rays which, rapidly breakdown any sail cloth, taking years off the life of the sail.

• Standard Sail Cover We provide a front zipper, vinyl protection for winches or cleats and twist snaps for easy on and off. Options of Lazy Jack cut outs if it applies to your boat.
• Hallett Zip-Top Sail Cover Hallett Zip Top Sail covers are integrated to a lazy jack system to allow the mainsail to drop into the cover, then zip the top up and you’re done. It’s that easy! The cover is independent of the sail which allows for easy installation and taking off at the end of the season.
• Horse Blanket The loose luff, flaked mainsail on boom Sunbrella sail cover that simply is laid and fastened.
• Interior Luxury Foam including EZ Dry, Quality fabrics and construction will make your boat worth living on for years to come.

Winter Covers

We can build covers for any custom projects. We will work around special rigging or unique designs to bring it all together for the perfectly finished look. Many times the up front cost of a winter cover is substantially high, however if you keep your boat for more than three to five years the cost becomes much lower than shrink wrapping. Also the quality and functionality of the cover is much greater than the standard blue and green polyethylene tarps. A quality winter cover is important in preserving your upholstery from rain, snow, and harmful UV rays. Now using more and more, the H2ube frame for sturdy, easy use, easy to clean covers. Sail boat enclosures. Our custom fit sail boat enclosures allow boaters to use the outdoor space in all weather and get full use of boat. This in turn can also lengthen the boating season all together allowing you to launch earlier in the spring and to stay warm on a beautiful late fall evening sail. Enclosures are designed to provide maximum visibility built with Strata Glass, Makrolon Polycarbonate or Crystal Clear glass while using Sunbrella or Stamoid for the panels.

Custom Covers

Hallett can design and fabricate any in-house custom upholstery or canvas work that you may need. Some of these projects include, winch covers, helm covers, mooring covers, fender covers, boom tents, wheel covers, hatch covers and much more. You tell us what you would like and we will go the extra mile to meet your needs.

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Hallett Canvas produces the very best cruising sails, racing sails, sailboat canvas, powerboat canvas, commercial canvas and sail rigging products in Maine.

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Dodgers, Biminis & Enclosures

“We are very pleased with the bimini and full enclosure panels you installed on our Jeanneau 35 last summer. The fit is remarkably precise, and the quality of materials and workmanship are both very high. Many thanks for making the treks to Collingwood to measure the boat and install the canvas!” – John, Jeanneau 35

Dodgers (Sailboat & Powerboat)

Our Natty Dodgers are built to stand the test of time.

You might call it expertise or experience, but at Genco we simply think of it as being dedicated to our craft. Our robust Natty Dodgers are built to last, by master craftsman. On premises.

We’ve seen styles come and go since we first opened our business in 1965, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the attention to detail we use in creating our superior sailboat and powerboat dodgers We still use the same rugged, colourfast Sunbrella for all of our dodgers along with stainless steel arches, top of the line stainless fittings and YKK zippers. You simply won’t find a higher quality dodger anywhere.

Our Natty design is the product of years of experience, 45+ years to be precise! In over four decades, we’ve covered literally thousands of sailboats and powerboats in our premium quality canvas products. And while we don’t want to take the air out of our competition’s sails, we can honestly say there isn’t a lot that Genco doesn’t know about canvas for your boat.

We offer an extensive list of patterns and templates for a wide variety of boats and we’re always on the lookout to expand the options available to our customers and continually come up with new designs for new boat models. No matter what kind of boat you have, whether it’s a classic you’ve cherished for years or it’s the latest boat on the market, Genco has you covered. Request a quote today or stop by one of our locations to discuss how we can help you. We look forward to working with you and meeting your boating needs.

The Natty Dodger System

Biminis & Enclosures (Sailboat & Powerboat)

Our Biminis and Enclosures share the same long history as our Dodgers. Since 1965, thousands of uncompromising boaters have made Genco a premiere choice for biminis and enclosures. We’ve learned and refined the best ways to protect boaters from the elements.

Although we have seen styles and designs come and go over the years, at Genco we still use the same Sunbrella for all of our boat covers. Why? Because we don’t believe in changing something that has proven it can withstand the test of time. Each of our high quality covers is produced from rugged, coloufast Sunbrella and features stainless steel framework, fittings and fasteners with YKK zippers. The result is a high quality product that will provide you with years of comfort and protection. Whether you’re sailing the high seas or taking a pleasure cruise, our biminis and enclosures will stay right on course with you.

Whether your boat has been part of the family for years or you have recently acquired one of the latest designs, at Genco we have your bimini and enclosure needs covered. We offer an extensive list of patterns and templates for a wide variety of boats. Each year we expand that catalog as we develop new designs based on new boat models. No matter what type of boat you may have, it’s safe to say we can cover your needs.

Send us a message to receive your quote today!

hardtop dodgers and biminis

Tartarooga hard dodgers means unlimited possibilities. everything's custom made.

Hardtop Dodgers

If you're looking for a dodger that provides aesthetics, strength and functionality, think TARTAROOGA!

Hard Dodger with Hard Bimini Combos

Looking for a combo that provides a reliable place out of the elements? Go to TARTAROOGA!

Off to Far Away Shores

Many of our ocean sailing clients have successfully completed long-distance passages and circumnavigations. they report back that our installations hold up under the most extreme conditions. their dodgers and biminis were all the comfort they could wish for at sea., hardtop dodgers, biminis and enclosures.

Are you looking for a dodger/bimini combo? Choose a wheelhouse, or maybe even a full enclosure under one long top.

Study our Image Gallery, then contact TARTAROOGA!

read client's opinions

Amigos,we just pulled into Mazatlan yesterday. We made the fastest passage ever across the Sea of Cortez, 34 hours! Must be the dodger! We wouldn’t change a thing.                                                                              Jack, Leanne y el chullo perrito

Two boat owners came over last weekend and checked out the new dodger. Both seemed to love it. If you have any customers with double enders  send’em my way!

Rob and Teresa Sikade, Seattle

Jacques, I have thought of you on many occasions since I got my dodger. I thought to write and tell you how much I appreciate the work you did. I notice it every day. And every time I notice it I think of who I should thank.

Larry Nelson, S/V Panta Rhei

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Complete new bimini/dodger/enclosure H38 - Ideas, Tips, Recommendations?

• Thread starter flightlead404
• Start date Aug 21, 2021
• Hunter Owner Forums

flightlead404

I'm hoping to have a complete new bimini/dodger made prior to moving south in November. Currently have the original and is in very poor shape. I'd love to raise the dodger and also have a full enclosure with removable side sections with eisenglass and bug screens. Has anyone gone down this road? Any recommendations, lessons learned? What did it cost? I'm in Hilton Head if anyone has recommendations in the area.  

Thanks I was hoping someone might have personal experience in the Piedmont  

flightlead404 said: Has anyone gone down this road? Any recommendations, lessons learned? What did it cost? Click to expand

SandyFrank said: I inherited one so all I can say is they do get in the way of proper sailing. Make the cockpit noticable warmer even with the "windows open." Take up room when you do not want them up. Click to expand

flightlead404 said: Thanks, some good points I hadn't considered. FWIW I'm looking to make life on the hook more comfortable, not life in the slip. Does the one you inherited have removable side panels? Is it in the way even with panels removed? Click to expand

Other potential issue I have is davits and suspended dingy, securing said dingy while underway, and currently have the outboard mounted on a stern rail back of the raised aft seats.  

@Scott T-Bird has a very nice full enclosure on his C320. A connector between the dodger and bimini, two panels on the side, three on the rear. All roll up nicely out of the way for sailing and can quickly be removed if wanted. I'm making him some replacement panels with no-sum screens. Turning out nicely. If your talking about having an enclosure designed, sewn and installed in 3 months, good luck. Shops around in our area are so busy they have been saying next year for people asking in June and July.  

Ward H said: @Scott T-Bird has a very nice full enclosure on his C320. A connector between the dodger and bimini, two panels on the side, three on the rear. All roll up nicely out of the way for sailing and can quickly be removed if wanted. I'm making him some replacement panels with no-sum screens. Turning out nicely. If your talking about having an enclosure designed, sewn and installed in 3 months, good luck. Shops around in our area are so busy they have been saying next year for people asking in June and July. Click to expand

flightlead404 said: Other potential issue I have is davits and suspended dingy, securing said dingy while underway, and currently have the outboard mounted on a stern rail back of the raised aft seats. Click to expand

Scott T-Bird

@Scott T-Bird Thanks for the detailed info! Some things to think about.  

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Dodger, bimini and enclosure fabrication

The big three—a dodger, bimini and enclosure combination on a Hylas 54 sailing yacht—combine a multitude of skill sets. It is one of the most challenging of all canvas projects to pull off correctly. In this article, we will examine the order of fabrication, techniques unique to this combination and pitfalls to avoid when fabricating these structures.

On many of these sailing yachts we can, if need be, make the entire pattern in one trip to the boat, assuming the wind cooperates or the boat is inside.

However, our preferred number of trips to the boat is four for jobs like these. We install all frames and pattern the dodger on the first trip. On the next trip, we install the dodger and pattern the bimini and forward connector at the same time. On trip three, the bimini and clear connector get installed and the final three sides get patterned. On the final trip, we install the enclosure and go over particulars and canvas care with our customer. We feel the four-trip process yields better results and is easier on the brain.

Photo 6 : Our aft pattern is fitted with cutouts around support poles that need to pass through the enclosure to the outside.

Photo 7: We prefer to sew on our zippers or stick zippers to our patterns with seam tape. We do not like to use “t” pins because they create non-uniform gaps that do not let zippers lie flat to the pattern. Zippers must lie flat to the pattern and meet our predetermined start and stop marks on an enclosure panel to look correct. Stretching or scrunching a zipper when installing it on a finished panel to meet start/stop marks creates waves in the clears. This is especially important to remember on the connector-to-dodger zipper to avoid getting waves in the clear windows.

Photos 8-9: At Hood Canvas we use custom visor angles that allow us to stitch zippers to our patterns. In addition, we use darts in our patterns to correct minor variations where the pattern will not lie flat. Darts do not appear in the final product.

Finally, consider zipper placement and the direction the zip opens. We think about the way our customers get in and out of these structures. Our customers will not be happy if they have to detach a zipper to get in, instead of just zipping the canvas away and flopping it back. They will be unhappy every time they get in or out of their boat. By being thoughtful about zipper placement, we make it easy for them and ensure happy customers.

Mark Hood, MFC, and his wife, Deb, own and operate Hood Marine Canvas Training in Merrimac, Mass. www.hoodcanvas.com , www.facebook.com/marinecanvastraining .

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Solving the Dodger Dilemma

T he phrase ‘cruising canvas’ has always had a sail inventory connotation, but today it’s even more descriptive of cockpit coverings that range from small spray hoods to full cockpit enclosures.

There’s good reason to go sailing under cover. Spray protection and shielding from the sun’s harmful rays lead the list. And it’s no surprise that cruising sailors have created a booming aftermarket industry that keeps canvas lofts and stainless tube fabricators busy. The usual routine involves a canvas loft manager and a boat owner collaborating on what the boat’s designer and builder failed to address.

The results vary. When all goes well, the tubular arches and fabric structure complement the lines of the vessel, provide welcome shelter, and still preserve the ability of a crew to handle sails and move in and out of the cockpit safely. In some cases, there’s too much of a good thing, and what emerges is a Conestoga wagon-like countenance that adds way too much windage and excessive vulnerability in a seaway.

Today, more and more sailboat designers have stepped up and added dodger and Bimini plans to their original drawings. Builders are providing molded mounting points on the deck for supporting hardware that shape their dodgers and Biminis.

In this review of cruising canvas alternatives, we will focus on factors that influence design and construction as well as look into materials best suited for soft and rigid dodgers, Biminis, spray cloths and other enclosures. From the start, we recognize that one size or design won’t fit all needs. That’s why it’s so important for the skipper to communicate to the loft designer or manager what their sailing priorities are and the range of conditions that they will likely encounter.

It’s interesting to note that the less-is-more cadre of performance-oriented sailors baulk at cluttering up the cockpit with canvas that adds drag and provides no lift. They cringe at the thought of obstructing the full view of the sail plan. Those racing to Bermuda or Hawaii for example, tend to do so with minimal cockpit covering. Even so, many participants sail these races with a small, collapsible dodger that allows the companionway hatch to remain open—even when the spray is flying. When the crew is perched on the rail or working in the cockpit, they rely on hats, sun shirts, gators, glasses, and sunblock along with a good set of foul weather gear. But as this full-speed-ahead ethos devolves into the pleasure of cruising, sail area decreases and dodger and Bimini square footage increases.

At present, the independent dodger and Bimini duo is a very sensible combination regardless of whether you sail a center or aft cockpit vessel. But during the marina bound measurement process, the underway implications shouldn’t be ignored.

SAFETY CONCERNS

Unfortunately, what often goes unnoticed are the safety concerns that arise at sea. These are often linked to an excessive canvas coverup. So, when finalizing design plans, ask yourself, how watch keeping, and the helmsperson’s visibility will be affected by the proposed structure. Thanks to the ability to use clear plastic windows (vinyl, acrylic or polycarbonate), a 360-degree view can usually be maintained. It’s also important to make sure that the shortest and tallest crew members have minimal obstructions to their sightlines.

Equally as important from a safety vantage point, is the maintenance of an unencumbered pathway to and from the helm and in and out of the cockpit. All too often, larger canvas covers work just fine in calm weather, flat sea conditions and when anchored, moored, or snugged up in a slip. However, it can be a completely different story in a seaway when an awkward contortion is needed to get in and out of the cockpit.

Don’t trade big tent ambiance for an outboard detour and an elevated risk of falling overboard. In heavy weather, reefing in sail area is usually quite straight forward, but removing or folding up a large Bimini or even larger, more elaborate, full cockpit enclosure, can redline the risk meter.

Latitude and weather patterns play a big role in selection of cockpit coverings. The higher the latitude and cooler the climate, the less desire there is for shade. It’s no surprise to see a lack of Florida rooms in Norwegian fjords. But in the often rainy and overcast wonderful cruising ground in the Pacific Northwest a cockpit enclosure often mimics a trawler’s pilot house. The more sun and the lower the latitude the greater the lust for shade. And in cooler, cloudy higher latitudes, lifeline supported weather cloths can add much appreciated spray protection. However, veteran cruisers rig these spray protectors with weak, low tensile strength line, lashing the lower portion of the canvas weather cloths so that a breaking sea will not collapse lifeline stanchions. Water weighs over 8 pounds per gallon, and when hundreds or thousands of gallons of accelerated wave face contacts a large, relatively weakly supported surface area, bad things happen. In such situations, an abrupt energy transfer results in a near instantaneous collapse of the underlying structure. The larger the canvas covering, the more vulnerable it is to impacts from wind and sea.

The venerable companionway dodger is still a cruising sailor’s best friend. Its strategic role includes allowing the main hatch to remain open, even when rain is pouring down and you’re beating to windward in a blow. Its stainless steel, bow-like, arched framework and secure mounts allow it to be folded forward or pivoted up into position. When combined with a spray hood—a garage-like shelter that the main hatch slides into, a dodger can keep the companionway ladder and accommodations below quite dry, even when the spray if flying.

The traditional companionway dodger evolved and expanded into a cockpit dodger spanning the full width of the aft end of the cabin house. It turns the forward portion of the cockpit into a highly valued roost and is a good spot to sit and maintain a watch while the auto pilot or self-steering vane handles the helm. It’s attached forward, at deck level to the spray hood over the companion way hatch and to a molded deck flange specifically intended for dodger installation. The mounting hardware includes twist-fasteners and snaps that connect the canvas to the FRP surface. These fittings have proven to be quite reliable, but when poorly installed they can be the cause of severe core damage, especially in areas where Balsa wood has been used in the sandwich construction. The problem stems from drilling a hole through the outer FRP skin and not properly closing off the penetration or bedding the screw threads themselves. Over time, the fitting allows water to enter the Balsa wood and rot soon follows. Left unattended, the problem worsens, and large areas of core material can be destroyed. Newer boats are built with specific dodger mount coamings negating the need to drill holes into the cabin house itself.

In addition to expanding the dodger footprint, as time went on, zippered  windows were improved, leathered handholds appeared on the trailing edge and stainless-steel grab rails made transitioning from the cockpit to the side deck safer and easier. Even so, it became clear that what works splendidly on one sailboat often fails on another. Awareness that one size or one dodger design doesn’t fit all is a major consideration. Take for example the issue of winch position, sheet leads and access in and out of the cockpit. A larger, longer dodger may hold appeal because of the shelter it provides, but if it forces those transitioning to the side decks to hobble over sheets and winches, the former advantage may be nullified by the latter’s safety implications.

In many cases the coach roof’s handrail, meant to be used by those leaving or entering the cockpit is rendered out of reach by a wide dodger. The net result is for those heading out of the cockpit to reach outboard and use the lifeline as a handhold. Modern sailboats are quite beamy aft and without a reliable handhold, getting around the dodger while entering or leaving the cockpit can be quite challenging especially in rough seas. Adding a sturdy stainless-steel tubular handrail to each side of a dodger is a big plus and worth the extra expense.

The hard dodger is hard to beat, especially when it comes to protection from the elements and the right place to stand a night watch. The best hard dodgers aren’t add-ons but were conceived by the boat’s designer. They remain structurally separated from the main accommodation and don’t eliminate traditional sliding boards and a companionway hatch or watertight door that isolates the accommodations below. There’s enough room to tuck into a cushioned seat and stay dry. And aboard larger sailboats there’s even room to stretch out. Electronic displays can be nestled under the enclosure, with a clear 360-degree field of view and you are more that half way to a pilot house but still have quick access to all the lines and sheets.

BIMINI TOPS

A Bimini is a salty term for an underway awning that usually covers more of the cockpit than a dodger. It’s a horizontal shelter that blocks sunlight and showers but lets the breeze flow through nicely. With a surface area that ranges from moderate to massive, it may be challenging to support biminis adequately. Flimsy framing may not be initially noticed but once you have weathered a significant cold front passage or a vigorous summer line squall, all of the shortfalls in support will makes themselves known. In such cases a poorly supported Bimini starts shaking like a Labrador Retriever just out of the water. The good news is that most Biminis fold up like the top of a 1969 Mustang convertible, and you can tuck things up before that front or thunderstorm threatens to unstep the support structure or shred the canvas.

Bimini design is a challenge that engages a familiar refrain of crew comfort versus dynamics of sailing. On one hand, the lower the latitude, the more appreciated shade becomes. But sailing under cover can hamper sail trim and even raise more safety concerns because of the obstacle path presented by the support stanchions ands extra bows. Once again cockpit entry and exit is important, as is day or night usability along with design features that work in calm or chaotic seas. Is there room to drag a along a sail bag that resides in an aft locker? Quite often, the biggest design challenge lies determining the appropriate spacing between the end of the dodger and the leading edge of the Bimini. Sunlight abatement calls for a minimal gap while a sailor’s need for safe, near instantaneous sprints forward and aft demands a good-sized slot and clear access to the inboard side deck.

When it comes to Biminis, sunlight blocking is a big deal. Many sailors assume that white is a cooler color, reflects light and doesn’t heat up as much as other colors. That’s true in some cases, especially when a white vinyl top layer is bonded to a dark conventional cloth underlayer. The first dodger installed aboard my sloop Wind Shadow was just such material and it reflected sunlight and was much more opaque that Sunbrella and WeatherMax. Unfortunately, the lower layer was a mold magnet in the tropics and the use of a dilute Clorox spray soon rotted the bottom layer that provided structural support to the vinyl top layer. Since then, I’ve been happy with dark blue Sunbrella and WeatherMax.

When it comes to dodgers and Biminis, a key goal is minimizing the translucency of the fabric, and color plays a key role. The main reason why white is not the best choice in the material mentioned above is that much light penetrates the material and infrared long wave radiation bounces back and forth between the deck and the underside of the awning. This mini-greenhouse effect raises the temperature, and darker colors may get hotter on the surface but those underneath the cover will be cooler.

There’s been considerable growth in popularity of canvas cockpit enclosures (AKA Florida Room). They encompass even more canvas square footage than the dodger/Bimini combo, and usually include drape like side curtains extending down to the rail. On the upside, it maximizes under cover living space and increases shelter for those living aboard in inclement, cooler environments. Preferably, the side curtains can be unzipped, rolled up or otherwise removed, leaving what amounts to a large awning providing sunshade yet open to breezes from all directions.

The fully covered cockpit concept has grown popular with those navigating the ICW in Fall and wintering in Georgia or Florida. The ability to make this inside passage sheltered from ocean swells eliminates the worry about being caught in rough seas and breaking waves. If you’re living aboard, the big plus is it’s like adding a second story to your house. In rainy, colder climates, the mud room is now in the cockpit rather than down below in the cabin itself. For cruising sailors who plan to harbor hop, gunkhole, or cruise in protected waters during fair-weather sailing seasons, turning the cockpit into a “Florida Room” makes sense.

The downside of this big tent approach to cockpit covering includes excess windage, diminished view of sails and in many cases, a dangerous pathway transition when heading into or out of the cockpit. However, those making a run to the Caribbean in the late Fall, face a very different challenge and must cross the fickle Gulf Stream at a very volatile time of year. In rough conditions, the best place for a big Bimini or a collapsible Florida room is stowed below in the forepeak or aft locker. Reefing sails in a Gulf Stream squall is tough enough but coping with wind and sea along with excess cockpit canvas can become a major challenge.

It’s clear that sailing in a big tent has its ups and downs. But there are some caveats. Number one is what happens offshore when you encounter a run-of-the-mill gale with 35-40 knot winds and 15-to-20-foot breaking seas? The teepee like structure in the cockpit may survive the wind, but water is 400 times denser than air and a swimming pool’s volume of sea water dropping onto the tube and fabric enclosure won’t go unnoticed.

The added windage also affects sailing performance and is likely to introduce steering characteristics that won’t appeal to the helmsperson or the auto pilot. Lastly, a good definition of “ordeal” is trying to reef the Florida Room at sea as conditions go from bad to worse. So, in your look at cover options, one of the questions to ask is, will the screened in porch-like cockpit be as cherished at sea as it is at anchor? And can it handle gale or storm force conditions? 

S tainless steel tubing and hardware make up the skeleton over which fabric takes shape. The bow-shaped tubes and interconnecting clamps, joints and stanchion bases transfer dodger/Bimini loads to the sailboat’s deck. The challenge lies in creating the right combination of support for a given square footage of canvas. Keep in mind that more often than not designers and builders never envisioned a big tent over the cockpit.

In some cases, these canvas enclosures cocoon the entire aft portion of the boat, and the underlying tubular support structure starts to look like an oil rig. Davits, solar panels, radar domes and wind generators find a foothold, and new forces are added to the equation. Add a large RIB dinghy to the davits and who knows what the result of a wave impact will be.

Smaller well-supported dodgers and fold-to-close Biminis have enough structural integrity to endure the green water impact of breaking waves. Large canvas enclosures that do a great job as rain protection in sheltered water can become a liability in a gale or storm at sea. It’s important for those making long ocean passages to be able to remove the canvas enclosures the way old time sailors struck the topsails before tangling with heavy weather.

Offshore, a different set of concerns takes priority. The most important attribute of a cockpit covering is its ability to stand up to the adversity of wind and sea. Wave top spray is only the start. It’s the plunging breakers or leeward impact of a bad broach that can add an unanticipated load to gossamer tube and canvas covers.

Years ago, I ocean raced with Eddie Greeff and Rod Stephens aboard Eddie’s classic 47-foot S&S called  Puffin . On one off watch chat, Eddie spoke of a Mistral in the Med and the problems that arose aboard his previous forty-footer also named Puffin. It all began when a breaking wave tossed the boat to leeward and the impact with green water sheared a portion of the coach roof allowing the sea to cascade below. Heaving to and quick damage control efforts by an experienced crew saved the vessel.

All I could imagine was what would have happened to a dodger or Bimini of even larger cockpit enclosure in such conditions. Some years before, my wife and I and our children were sailing across the Tasman Sea and were caught in storm force conditions. A breaking wave crushed the dodger and cracked a Lexan storm cover on a cabin port. The point here is that one should look at cockpit covers in context with the seas being sailed.

T here are probably more varieties of dodgers as there are boats. Here is a quick overview of the various details to consider in your own cockpit canvas.

1. Wide cockpit, modern designs vastly increase Bimini and dodger surface area. Multiple support bows are needed. Windows in the overhead must provide good visibility for sail setting, reefing, and trimming on all points of sail.

2. In warmer more friendly latitudes, sun rather than breaking waves is the culprit. A Bimini with a two layer vinyl (white) and polyester (blue) fabric reflects light. Mold resistance also is improved.

3. Windows in Biminis are a must if sail trim and setting is a priority. Closing up the flap when not on board can prevent puddled rain water from acting as a lens, refracting light and causing damage to sailing instruments.

4. Many new cruising boats add fiberglass structures that support dodger canvas. With an autopilot remote control inside the dodger, watch standers have both weather protection, helm control and full visibility

5. A good dodger allows for winch work, provides shelter and allows a crew to pop out and have easy access to sheets, guys and especially the helm. Keep glazing clear (see “ Long Term Clear Vinyl Protection ,” PS  November 2018).

6. Spray cloths, a big Bimini and side curtains plus an array of safety gear can become the targets of a breaking sea. It’s important to rig covers and safety gear in keeping with the cruising conditions.

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Biminis & Dodgers

As every sailor knows, a good dodger or Bimini top with an enclosure will protect you from the harsh elements, sun, rain, and wind while out on the water. Paul’s Custom Canvas, Inc. has over 38 years of experience manufacturing various designs of dodger’s and sail boat covers suitable for each individual customer and their boats. They are carefully built ensuring structural integrity as well as years of performance. Dodgers will add the comfort, protection and style to your boat. We proudly offer high quality Bimini’s that are specifically designed for your sail boat using fabrics such as Sunbrella and Aqualon that are not only durable but also water repellent, flexible, mildew resistant and available in many colors!

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Custom Covers LLC

Located in Clinton, CT

Dodgers and Biminis

Dodgers & Biminis

Dodgers and biminis are a standard on sailboats as they provide protection, comfort, and style. Whether you need a break from the hot sun or shelter from a storm, we can design a custom set up to meet your desires.

Our frames are made with stainless steel tubing. We use SunbrellaⓇ for a reliable waterproof canvas and Makrolon® or strataglass for the windshield and windows.

Browse our gallery to see some of our past work!

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Hardtop Dodgers – The Next Big Thing in Sailing

The Canvas Works crew are professional marine fabricators as well as sailors with significant time on the water. Sailing experience allows us to understand how best to construct a quality dodger and how it will perform in demanding conditions.

What is a Dodger You Might Ask?

If you are a baseball fan, you might stumble upon this post. Unfortunately, you will not learn anything about the baseball team, but don’t be afraid to stick around and learn about the other type of dodger, the sailboat dodger and more specifically, the high performance hardtop dodger .

A Traditional Canvas Dodger vs A Bimini Top – Need Some Clarity?

A bimini top is an open-front canvas top stretched over a metal frame, or bows for the cockpit or deck of a powerboat or sailboat. Most bimini tops can be collapsed or retracted when not in use and returned to their full extension if shade or shelter is needed. Unlike sailboat dodgers, biminis are found on all different types of sports boats, performance powerboats, pontoon boats and sailboats. Biminis provide shade and protect the helmsman from UV rays but they do not provide full protection from the elements.

A bimini can have 2, 3 or 4 bows as the supporting structure. This structure can provide the framework for a boat enclosure on any type of boat. In this blog, we will explore the high performance hardtop dodgers, an excellent alternative to the traditional canvas dodger.

Introducing the Hardtop Dodger

If you are considering a new dodger, look no further. Here, we will explore the main differences between the soft canvas dodger and the hardtop dodger to help you make the best decision for your boat and lifestyle. Both options have their benefits:

Benefits of the Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop dodgers are a perfect choice for functionality, longevity, and overall coverage. Our hardtop’s are designed, engineered, and built for low maintenance, a high strength to weight ratio while maintaining a nice ascetic.

Below are some reasons why you may want to consider a hardtop dodger over a soft, canvas dodger.

The Structure of a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : Our frames and supporting structure are fabricated in 1.25” OD 316 stainless steel tubing. The larger diameter is robust and can withstand higher loads.

Canvas Dodger : Typical construction is with 1” OD tubing. This is a fine size to support the canvas top.

The Surface of a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : The actual hardtop is fabricated with a ¾” foam or balsa core , x-mat fiberglass , epoxy resin and high quality gel coat . It is a 3 inch cambered 90” x 54” x 1” top with a rain lip. Because of these features, The hardtop is very strong, robust and provides a durable surface allowing you to mount solar panels, lighting, sound systems, hand rails and ancillary hardware.

Canvas Dodger : Typically made from durable marine Sunbrella or PVC coated fabric. Canvas dodgers, even when stretched perfectly across their structure, can not accept as much weight as a hardtop.

Side panels and enclosing your Dodger

Both the hardtop and softtop dodgers use canvas constructed side panels. The Hardtop panels tend to be a bit bigger based on the overall size of Hardtops. Panels can be fabricated in either Sunbrella acrylic canvas or PVC Canvas such as Stamoid or Herculite. Window materials vary from polycarbonate, acrylics to clear vinyls. Brands, coatings and thickness vary and can affect both longevity and budget.

Maintenance on a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : The fiberglass hardtop can be easily wiped clean, eliminating possible mold, algae and organic growth. Cleaning the hard top is as straightforward as cleaning the balance of the fiberglass on your boat.

Canvas Dodger : The canvas top is made from fabric, it is susceptible to algae and organic growth and sun damage over it’s life. They must be regularly cleaned in order to minimize degradation of the fabric from the elements.. Often the process of dismantling a dodger to clean the fabric can be a challenging task.

The Abrasion on a Hardtop Dodger

Hardtop Dodger : Because the hardtop surface is precisely molded and rigid, there is no need for a chafe pad to protect from the mainsail canvas rubbing on the top.

Canvas Dodger : Depending on the position of your boom, canvas dodgers often need reinforcement along the top edges to prevent wear and tear where the boom may hit the dodger.

Mounted Handrails on a Hardtop Dodger

Canvas Dodger : While handrails do provide additional support and structure for a canvas dodger, side handles limit the collapsibility of the dodger, can be less sturdy, and are difficult to install or reinstall after maintenance or repairs.

Can My Sailboat Accommodate a Hardtop Dodger?

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The Canvas Works Hardtop Dodger

Now that you know a little more about the differences between the traditional dodger and a hardtop dodger, you can make an informed decision about which type of dodger is best for you. Whether you find a fabricator in your area or you go with The Canvas Works’ hardtop, here is some additional information to inform your decision. Our fabrication team has the capability to create your dodger from start to finish on site, or we can fabricate just the hardtop to be shipped to you for installation.

How is the Canvas Works Hardtop Dodger Enclosed?

Stanchions and Support Structure : 1-1/4” 316 stainless steel stanchions and supports provide the foundation of the structure. Two sets of handrails on the outer edge of the dodger are mounted opposing one another. The lower set becomes the strut and stanchion attachment point, while the upper rail is a grab handrail.

Windows and Window Frames : Fitted 40 mil Makrolon polycarbonate is semi-rigid, incredibly optically clear and has an industry leading warranty. Covers for the windows are included with each dodger. Serge Ferrari Stamoid Top or Sunbrella Marine fabric window frames add an attractive, finished look and years of service to any dodger panels.

Hardware : Keder welt and track for forward windows which creates even tension along the leading edge of the windows and provides excellent spray and weather resistance. All hardware is top quality hardware, including snaps, lift-a-dot or twist lock fasteners as required by the installation. Whenever possible it is preferable to use a PVC track, welt and zipper attachment system in-lieu of fasteners.

What is the take away from this blog?

While the initial cost of a hardtop dodger is more than a canvas soft top dodger, the difference will be better long term investment for the long life of the hardtop. The Canvas Works designed and engineered our hardtop to serve a variety of boats. With the installation of The Canvas Works hardtop, you will have all of the following to look forward to.

• A dependable structure for peace of mind when cruising
• A strong, robust and durable surface to mount solar panels or hardware
• A low maintenance support structure to withstand harsh weather conditions
• A smooth, cleanable surface that won’t tear, mold or stretch
• A sleek rigid enclosure that provides ultimate protection from the elements

Should you have questions, we welcome the opportunity to hear from you. Give us a call so we can walk you through your next dodger project 413.331.6527 or Inquire Online .

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Time for a New Bimini or Dodger?

Sailboat Dodger, Boat Bimini, Enclosure/Cockpit Surround – these shade-making and weather protection designs are make your boat more a more livable place to enjoy. Over time, however, the effects of weather and sun can take their toll.

For replacements, canvas pieces are stretched and shaped to existing frames and bows.  A tight tolerance is key when making a Bimini, Dodger or a Surround/Enclosure.  Dodgers, Side Curtains and Enclosures/Surrounds are fitted and measured on the boat. Biminis often can sometimes be measured and fit at the shop.  Just bring the frame into the shop.

For new Biminis and Dodgers we can create the stainless steal frames.  Repairing frames can be tricky and sometimes we recommend replacing units that show fatigue or excessive wear.

Make a Copy of your Dodger or Bimini?

We often get the question: “C an’t you simply copy my existing Dodger, Boat Bimini or Surround? ”  While many shops claim they can do this, what you get is a poorly fitting result. That is because over time canvas and especially eisenglass stretch and shrink. Look closely at your canvas and observe places where it has stretched and shrunk. Then keep in mind that if you simply copy it, you will get back that same fit which will include the same stretch and shrinkage – in other words, a poorly fitting product.

Boat Bimini copies are somewhat possible. We can can make a unfinished copy, but always need to fit it to the existing frame for final finishing.

Bimini, Dodger, and Surround Options

Our Dodgers are made with all zip out windows. Customer prefer this as the can enjoy the shade over the companionway, yet still have airflow while moored or on light wind days. Options include:   Eisenglas covers in the same color material as dodger with soft backing. These are used to protect and extend the life of the eisenglass.  Zip in shade screens that allow for shade and ventilation when you do not have windows in. Bimini to Dogder extension pieces are always popular.

Some popular Bimini options include Sun-Shade mesh curtains which block the heat, but not the view. On sailboats these often are attached via zippers to the Bimini top and tied or clipped to the lifelines. These can also be designed as zippered inserts for boats with full enclosures.

Enclosures/Surrounds

Many boats these days, especially power boats, have partial or full enclosures. These often have “side-curtains” which can be a zippered bug screen, zipper sun-shade and/or clear vinyl windows. Some boats have all three! On sailboats, we often make connector pieces that connect the Dodger to the Bimini via zippers.

Recent Dodger Patterning

For Dodgers, Side-Curtains and Surround/Enclosures, any clear vinyl windows will often need replacement as many years of use. This is a common project for us. Some customers refer these windows as isinglass (or eisenglass) which is a generic term. There are several brands on the market like Strataglass, Flexa, O’Sea, Regalite, etc. and all come in various gauges or thickness. Gauge, UV protection, rigidity, are all factors we consider when selecting the correct clear vinyl for your project.

Chicago Marine Canvas | Custom Boat Covers

Providing Custom Yacht & Boat Canvas, Covers and Repairs to the Chicago Boating Community

Dodger, Bimini and Frame Adjustment

Our team recently undertook an exciting project to update the dodger on a Jeanneau Yacht , customized to meet the specific needs of our valued customer. Dodgers are undoubtedly a perfect addition to any boat, much like bimini tops, providing protection and enhancing the overall boating experience. In this case, we focused on increasing the height of the dodger to ensure optimal functionality and comfort for the customer.

One of the notable features of this updated dodger is its windows, which are crafted from a polycarbonate semi-rigid material. This choice offers several advantages, including exceptional clarity that allows for unobstructed views of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, the material’s impressive durability guarantees that it will withstand the challenges of marine environments, while also providing effective rain protection. With this dodger in place, the customer can confidently enjoy their time on the yacht, even in adverse weather conditions

In addition to the top-notch materials used for the windows, we pride ourselves on the quality of the entire dodger construction. The thread and fabric utilized in most of our projects are of the highest caliber, ensuring longevity and strength. 

We encourage you to visit Montrose Harbor to see the impressive results of this dodger update. You’ll find this project to be a testament to our expertise and dedication to meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations.

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