Selecting a Bimini

[Walter4]

I recently purchase Soliloquy a 1984 384. She does not have a bimini which my first mate insists we install. Any recommendations or experience would be helpful.

 

[DGA]

I have considered fitting a bimini. The wife/ cruise director would like one as well. I'd almost rather simplify things and even reduce the dodger size down to just a small spray hood, or even nothing, but that isn't really practical. You have a 384 so it's simpler with the cabin mounted traveller, my 382 has the main sheet in the middle of the cockpit. Would also like an alternative place to mount the two 100 watt solar panels, I have those on the davits but they can get hit on pilings if I have to depart on high angles etc. Decisions.
There are generic frames with sunbrella covers, all you really need is the frame mount point width and choose from that.

 

[Warren Holybee]

I built one with a Sail Rite kit and am very happy with the results. But, the sewing part was pretty difficult-especially since I did all the sewing on the boat, using a space at the marina office to lay out and cut the fabric. I don't have handy a picture of it completed, but a couple pictures of building it.

 

[Walter4]

Looks good Warren. Can you tell me what model you purchased?

 

[Warren Holybee]

This was the frame:

3-Bow 1" Bimini Frame Kit & Fittings 106" x 84" x 44" (Stainless Steel)

This 3-Bow Bimini Frame Kit contains all the stainless steel tubing and fittings needed to build a 3-bow bimini frame.

www.sailrite.com

The specific kit for the cover seems to have changed. I think the older kit I have had a better design, but more difficult to build. Here is the current kit:

Sailrite® Bimini Skin Kit with Window & Backstay Slits for 3-Bow Frame - Sunbrella® Fabric

This kit provides all the materials needed for the fabric top of a 3-bow bimini with backstay slits and a window. Made with Sunbrella Marine Grade.

www.sailrite.com

The difference is in the backstay slits and how the zipper curves around the frame. It's really difficult to measure it and get the curve right. I had to undo it and reattach the zipper. They "fixed" that by making the zipper not full length, and adding a snap. And the backstay slits just look janky on the new version.

But, you could get the old directions and build it however you like.

 

[Mitchell S Allen]

Warren, how are the bows? Multiple sections for each? Adjustable for width, etc? Wondering how they ship.
Mitchell

 

[Warren Holybee]

The bows are 3 pieces. You cut the center section to length and rivet them together with stainless rivets.

 

[Mitchell S Allen]

Thanks Warren