Measuring bimini top

         

The only thing you need to do before ordering the bimini top is to choose the length, height, and width of the bimini top that best fits the size of your boat.
The length (L) and height (H) determine how much shade your bimini top will provide.

Decide where the bimini top will be attached and what the reach of the top is when you unfold it. Also check where the top will be in the lowered position at the back of the boat. Make sure there is enough space at the front and back of the bimini top to mount the attachment eyes on the boat, where the straps of the bimini top will be fastened.

Using a measuring tape, you can determine which length of the bimini top provides the desired amount of shade on your boat.

The main mounting point is approximately in the middle of the bimini top on both sides of the boat.

After you have determined where the bimini top attachment points will be on the boat, measure the distance between these points to determine the width (B) of the top you need.
The frame is adjustable in width so it can be mounted within the specified range as indicated in the sizing when you order the bimini top. (see image above)


Example of a width size of 155-169 cm: This means that the bimini top is usually 155 cm wide but can be mounted up to a width of 169 cm. There is an adjustment possible of +/- 15 cm. For stability, it is better to set the bottom edge of the bimini top outward rather than inward, but this is possible!
Choose the width that most closely matches your measurement of the width between the attachments.

Height

You determine the correct height while standing in the boat; measure straight up the desired height from the attachment points. You and any passengers should be able to stand comfortably on larger boats. If you mount the bimini top on a small boat, don’t go too high; if you can just stand with a slightly bent head and knees, that is already good. The higher you go, the less shade you get. Especially on small rubber boats or fishing boats, you usually sit and there is no room to move your seat if it comes into the sun. If you can stand slightly bent under the bimini top on such boats, that is actually good enough.

Additional information for sailboats

Pay close attention with sailboats because there are a few more things to consider. Ask yourself when you will use the bimini top. If you want to use the bimini top while sailing and the boom hangs above the bimini top, keep in mind that when you hoist the sail, you usually lower the crane line. This causes the boom to hang lower, and especially when sailing close-hauled with the mainsheet pulled tight, the boom usually comes even lower.

Also, consider the mounting location. Sailboats often have a raised cockpit edge. If you place the bimini top on the cockpit edge, it can significantly limit your freedom of movement because there is a frame in the way. Usually, but not always, it is more convenient to place the bimini top on the outer edge of the side deck so you can always walk forward.