Boat Cover Buying Guide
Owning a boat is a major investment that should last you a very long time. However, those years can be cut short if you don’t take good care of it. Thankfully, there is an easy and effective way to prolong its value, and that is to invest in a boat cover. Keep reading for important tips to select the best cover that provides the ultimate protection of your boat.
New Jersey Outboards is here to help you with all your boating needs, including matching the perfect boat for your needs and budget. So, visit our location in Bayville, NJ, today! We also serve Philadelphia, PA, as well as those from New York and Connecticut.
Custom or Universal Boat Cover?
It comes down to choosing between two options of boat covers. A custom-fitted cover is designed and tailored for the exact make, model, and year of your boat. A universal-style cover is a generic design that fits the measurements of your water vessel.
Custom Boat Covers
A custom boat cover takes into consideration the console-style, length, width, beam, and various other measurements of your boat to give you an outer shell that truly fits like a glove. No other cover will provide as much protection or fit as perfectly as a custom boat cover. Therefore, if you have this option available, this is your best choice, hands down.
Universal Boat Covers
A universal cover takes into consideration the center-line length and beam width of your boat. These covers are especially beneficial for those who want to protect their boat at an inexpensive cost. They are significantly cheaper than a custom cover, but they will do the job.
For some boat owners, a universal boat cover is the only option. Sometimes, a custom cover is not available to fit the particular brand and size of their boat. In this case, search out the highest quality cover with the closest specifications.
How to Measure Your Boat
The measurements you write down must be precise to find the perfect cover. Otherwise, you’ll end up buying a saggy and loose cover or one that doesn’t fit at all.
To start, measure your boat’s center-line from the bow tip to the stern. If your water vessel has added components connected to the stern, include that measurement too. Then, measure the beam width from side to side. You'll also need to know your boat's hull style when purchasing universal boat covers.
The Type of Material
A boat cover is useless if it doesn’t resist or repel water. Although you may expect that they all do, the truth is that not all covers are made this way. Furthermore, choose a material that will last long.
The following are the most common type of materials used to make boat covers:
- Polyester: This is the most recommended as it offers the most advantages in terms of no stretch, no shrinkage, and water resistance.
- Poly-cotton blend: This is the second-best, but try to get the highest percentage of polyester versus cotton.
- Cotton: This is not as trustworthy. They are known to stretch or break down very easily.
Seeking boats for sale in Bayville, NJ? Visit our dealership today to check out our fine selection of new and used boats for sale. New Jersey Outboards proudly serves the greater Philadelphia, PA, metropolitan area as well as the states of New York and Connecticut.