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Boat Cover Guide
| Measuring | Fit Options | Use | Fabric Options | Installation | Care |
We recommend specific covers that are fit guaranteed for most boat models, applied by the boats year, make and model. However, if you are unsure of your boats year make and model or it is not listed we can always apply a cover by the boats style and dimensions. Search for your boats style using our boat style finder. Then select your boats dimensions to start finding covers. Questions? Please don't hesitate to contact us.
If searching for a cover by your boats style and dimensions you will need to measure your boat. Measuring your boat for the best fitting cover can be simple and quick. First, determine the widest point of your boat. For most boats, this is the transom. Measure across the boat from outside edge to outside edge in a straight line. This is the beam width.
To determine the centerline length of your boat, measure from the tip of the bow or pulpit to the end of the transom (do NOT include the motor). Take this measurement as straight as possible to get an accurate measurement. A quick tip is to lay an object, such as a brick, on the ground or the dock even with the tip of the bow, and another object even with the end of the transom. Then measure the distance between the two objects. This will ensure that you are not measuring contours, but length only. Windshields, center consoles, and standard features are already accounted for by the manufacturer.
If your boat is equipped with an extended swim platform, trolling motor, anchor roller, motor bracket or jack plate be sure to add the extra length to the centerline length of the cover. If you are looking at a Custom Fit Cover, accommodations for these types of accessories are sometimes accounted for, just give us a call at 1-888-726-9300, email or Live Chat with us to find out.
Once you have these measurements, you will be ready to proceed with your order. Begin searching here. Questions? Contact us via Live Chat, 1-888-726-9300, or email.
CoverQuest offers boat covers from the marine industries top three cover manufacturers. Below are the descriptions and details of each fit option offered by each manufacturer.
Carver offers 3 different fits: Custom Fit, Semi-Custom Fit & Flex Fit.
See below or view our video to learn more.
Carver Custom Fit Covers
Carver Custom Fit Covers are patterned specifically for a particular make, model, and year of boat. This custom pattern provides a “glove-like” fit. Each cover’s hem is made to snug approximately 3”-6” below your boat’s rub rail. All Carver Custom Fit Covers are suitable for mooring, tailoring, and both indoor and outdoor storage. If you want the best fit possible, and the highest quality material options on the market, our Carver Custom Fit Cover is what you are looking for! All Carver Custom Fit Covers are made in the USA!
Cover Details
- ¼” Draw rope is encased in each Custom Fit Cover’s hem.
- Padded reinforcements are sewn in at key stress points to provide extra durability.
- Tie-down loops are double-stitched throughout the hem, allowing for fastening the cover securely to the craft.
- All seams are double-stitched with weather resistant anti-wick thread and folded four-ply, leaving no raw edges.
- A motor cover is provided for boat models with outboard motors.
Draw Rope Tie-Down Loop
Available in the following fabrics:
Carver Semi-Custom Fit Covers are patterned to fit a specific boat style and its overall length and beam width. You can be assured the fit will be specific! The Styled-to-Fit Cover is designed to snug approximately 3"-6" below the boats rub rail. These covers offer a secure fit, and are highly recommended for tailoring, mooring, or storage. All Carver Semi-Custom Fit Covers are made in the USA!
Cover Details
- ¼” Shock cord is encased in each Semi-Custom Fit Cover’s hem.
- Tie-down loops are double-stitched throughout the hem allowing for fastening the cover securely to the craft.
- All seams are double-stitched with weather resistant anti-wick thread and folded four-ply, leaving no raw edges.
- An attached motor cover is provided for boat models with outboard motors.
Shock Cord Tie-Down Loop
Available in the following fabrics:
Carver Flex-Fit Covers
Carver Flex-Fit Covers are patterned to fit multiple styles and sizes of boats. Economically priced, the Flex-Fit Cover is an excellent choice for protecting your boat while in storage but is not recommended for travel. All Carver Flex-Fit Covers are made in the USA!
Cover Details
- ¼” Shock cord is encased in each Flex-Fit Cover’s hem.
- Tie-down loops are double-stitched throughout the hem allowing you to fasten the cover securely to the craft.
- All seams are double-stitched with weather resistant anti-wick thread and folded four-ply, leaving no raw edges.
Shock Cord Tie-Down Loop
Available in the following fabrics:
Shoretex, previously known as ShoreMaster, offers 2 different fits: Custom Fit & Semi-Custom Fit.
See below to learn more.
Shoretex Custom Fit Covers
Each Shoretex Custom Fit Cover is patterned for a specific year, make and model of boat, resulting in a perfect fit every time. Each cover is tucked and darted in all the right places, allowing the cover to hug every curve and contour of the boat. When you order a Shoretx Custom Fit Cover, you can be assured you are getting a true custom fit cover you can depend on for years of protection!
Cover Details
- Heavy-duty vinyl reinforcements are sewn into the underside of every Custom Fit Cover at key stress points, providing maximum wear protection.
- 4-ply double-stitched seams are sewn using rot and mildew-proof thread, leaving no raw edges.
- Durable UV resistant polyester rope is encased in the hem of every Custom Fit Cover.
- Each cover comes equipped with heavy-duty tie down loops with attached D-rings, allowing you to secure the cover to the boat.
Tie-Down Loop with D-Ring
Available in the following fabrics:
Shoretex Semi-Custom Fit Covers
Shoretex Semi-Custom Fit Covers are manufactured for a particular style, shape, and size boat. There are over 30 boat styles with a multitude of sizes applied by the boat’s year, make, and model. If you are searching for a well-fitting cover that is made with quality and value in mind, we’ave got you covered!
Cover Details
- Heavy-duty adjustable shock cord is encased in the hem of each Semi-Custom Fit Cover for easy installation and removal, providing a snug fit.
- Each cover offers double-stitched seams, sewn using rot and mildew-proof thread, leaving no raw edges.
- All covers come equipped with heavy-duty tie down loops allowing you to secure the cover.
- All Semi-Custom Covers are cut to accommodate the type of motor specified at checkout. Outboard motor covers are sold separately.
Tie-Down Loop with D-Ring
Available in the following fabrics:
Westland Boat Covers
Westland offers 2 different fits: Custom Fit & Semi-Custom Fit.
See below to learn more.
Westland Custom Fit Covers
Westland Custom Fit Covers are patterned for an exact boat make, model, and year resulting in a snug, tight fitting cover. Each Custom Fit Cover is built to snug at the boat’s rub rail. Each Westland Custom Fit Cover is suitable for mooring, trailering, and indoor or outdoor storage.
Cover Details
- Each Custom Fit Cover is reinforced at key stress points.
- A draw rope is sewn into every Custom Fit Cover’s hem.
- Tie down loops are double sewn in an offset “V” around the cover’s hem for strength and to lessen strap twisting.
- All Custom Fit Covers come with 12 black nylon straps with adjustable quick release buckles.
Tie-Down Loop
Available in the following fabrics:
Westland Semi-Custom Fit Covers
Westland Semi-Custom Fit Covers are patterned for a specific boat style based on the centerline length and beam width dimensions. The Semi-Custom Fit Cover is usually a form fitting cover but is generally a little looser than the Custom Fit Cover. These covers are built to snug at your boats rub rail. Semi-Custom Fit Covers offer a snug fit and are recommended for mooring, trailering, and storage indoors or outdoors.
Cover Details
- Every Semi-Custom Fit Cover offers a draw rope sewn into the cover’s hem that allows you to securely fasten the cover to your boat.
- 2 Vents are sewn into all Semi-Custom Fit Covers to help reduce moisture and mildew.
- Reinforcements are sewn in at the windshield and trolling motor where applicable.
Tie Down Loop Vents
Available in the following fabrics:
Extreme Elements - Heat or Snow
For areas that endure extreme elements, either intense sun or harsh winter weather, we recommend the 9.25 oz. Sunbrella® Acrylic, followed by the 8 oz. Performance Poly-Guard, the 8 oz. WeatherMax, the 9 oz. Prism and the 7.5 oz. Sharkskin Supreme. All of these fabrics are designed to protect your boat and withstand the natural elements year after year.
Trailering, Mooring & Storage
Covering your boat while trailering is a must for many boaters. The fit and material of a cover are important factors in trailering. The fit must be precise and secure, and the material must be strong. All fits and materials are suitable for storage but a smaller selection is suitable for trailering. All Carver Custom and Styled-to-Fit Covers as well as all Westland Exact Fit, Select Fit Covers and Short Custom Fit Covers, with the exception of the Master Duck and Sunburst materials, are trailerable.
Each material offered for trailering will withstand highway wind and debris, when fastened properly, using our boat cover tie-down kit. While some of our materials and fits are only suitable for storage. The Flex Fit series in all materials offered is not trailerable because of the universal fit it gives, but it is a great option for storage. Also, our specialty covers for boats with hard tops and t-tops are not recommended for trailering.
To utilize our covers for mooring we recommend the suction cup tie down kit. These are useful when securing the cover while the boat is in the water. If you have any questions about the use of a particular fit type or material please call 1-888-726-9300, email or live chat with one of our Cover Experts.
9.25 oz. Sunbrella Acrylic
9.25 oz. Sunbrella Acrylic is a 100% Solution Dyed Acrylic material. Sunbrella is our number-one performance fabric in beauty and quality. This solution-dyed fabric provides the best mildew, moisture and UV protection combined with fade resistant color. Sunbrella is long lasting, durable, and 100% breathable. Additional “Special Order” colors available, please call for details. Made in the USA.
- Carver Sunbrella Color Options
- Carver Sunbrella Special Order Color Options
- Westland Sunbrella Color Options
7 oz. Sun-DURA
7 oz. Sun-DURA is a 100% solution dyed marine grade polyester. The solution dying of this fabric allows it to retain its color and water repellent properties better than any other fabric. The Sun-DURA’s 600-denier tight weave offers superior resistance to UV rays, mildew, fading, and tearing. Carver’s unique finish will allow the cover to breathe while providing exceptional water repellency.
9 oz. Prism
Prism is known for its ability to remain flexible in all types of weather. The 9 oz. two-ply polyester is double coated preventing the cover from cracking, peeling or hardening in all climates. It is highly resistant to UV rays, mold, mildew and nearly all chemical degrading products. This material can be used for storage, mooring, or trailering.
8 oz. Performance Poly-Guard
8 oz. Performance Poly-Guard is a 100% marine grade polyester. This is our most popular boat cover fabric, known for its high tear strength and extreme water repellency. It is 100% breathable, with excellent UV and mildew protection. Made in the USA.
8 oz. WeatherMax
WeatherMax is an 8 oz. solution-dyed, breathable fabric. The lighter weight of this material makes it easy to install and remove the cover while the vinyl element of the material provides strength and long-lasting durability. Sagging from age, rain, or exposure is avoided using engineered yarn memory. This “memory” is responsible for maintaining the cover’s shape and appearance. Expect this breathable fabric to retain its brilliant and beautiful color, ensuring that your WeatherMax cover lasts for a very long time. This material is ideal for storage, mooring, and travel.
7.5 oz. Sharkskin Supreme
7.5 oz. Sharkskin Supreme is a 100% solution dyed polyester fabric. This material is water repellent, durable, and retains its color over time.
6.5 oz. Sharkskin Plus
6.5 oz. Sharkskin Plus is a 100% acrylic coated polyester material. This material is breathable, water repellent, and mildew resistant. Made in the USA.
6.5 oz. Sunburst
Sunburst is lightweight, yet strong and durable, 6.5 oz. 100% solution-dyed polyester. It is water repellent, breathable, mold and mildew resistant, and treated with UV inhibitors. Sunburst is fade, rot, and shrink resistant. This material is recommended for mooring and indoor or outdoor storage.
10 oz. Master Duck
Master Duck is a 10 oz. marine duck poly-cotton material (65% polyester/35% cotton). It is water repellent, mold and mildew resistant, breathable, and has UV inhibitors built in. This fabric is ideal for indoor storage and mooring.
13 oz. Travel Tuff
Travel Tuff is a 13 oz. 100% coated polyester, making it great for tailoring, mooring, and storage. The coated polyester offers a strong, durable and tear resistant cover for years of protection. This material is UV resistant, water repellent, and guards against mold and mildew. Travel Tuff is ideal for mooring, storage, and travel.
11 oz. Double Duck
11 oz. Double Duck, also known as the 11 oz. Poly-Cotton, is a blend of 65% polyester for strength and 35% cotton for softness. The tight weave of Double Duck makes it good for indoor and outdoor storage as well as trailering. It is 100% breathable with a double applied water repellent finish. It is UV and mildew resistant. Made in the USA.
6 oz. Sharkskin
6 oz. Sharkskin is a 100% polyester material. This material is very light weight but strong and durable. Sharkskin is also water repellent and mildew resistant. Made in the USA.
7 oz. Poly-Flex
7 oz. Poly-Flex is a 100% Marine Grade Polyester. It is breathable and lightweight, yet strong. This material is water repellent, UV and mildew resistant; providing protection against dust, dirt, and debris. Made in the USA.
All covers are rolled and packaged with the bow end of the cover to the outside. The tag on the bow end is sewn into the inside hem of the cover. To cover your boat, follow these instructions:
- Place the bow end of the rolled cover on or near the bow of your boat and unroll towards the stern or rear, positioning it down the center of the boat as you unroll.
- Slip the front of the cover over the bow and pull the cover open to the sides as you work towards the back of the boat.
- If using support poles (optional for most covers), position the poles under your cover prior to completely covering the boat. Also add any padding needed for the windshields, trolling motors, depth wanders, etc.
- Adjust the covers fit by pulling the cover tight to eliminate sagging areas. These areas may collect standing water or snow and shorten the life of your cover.
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Using the reinforced tie-down loops, secure the cover by tying it down. When trailering, always use heavy-duty tie-down straps, sold separately.
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Remove the cover by folding to the center from both sides and rolling the cover from back to front. This will make it easier to repeat steps 1 thru 5 when covering your boat again. (Important: allow the cover to dry thoroughly before folding for storage.)
For more information, view Carver's Boat Cover Installation guide.
Protect your investment by following our care tips:
- Avoid letting water, snow, or debris stand on the cover. The use of support poles, support systems, and straps will help prevent this and will allow water to drain off of the cover.
- Always tie the cover down securely. When trailering, use heavy duty tie-down straps. Avoid using bungee cords that can stretch, causing damage to the cover and to your boat’s finish.
- Take the precaution of padding windshields, trolling motors, depth finders, etc. to give the cover added strength around stress areas.
- Keep your cover looking its best by regularly brushing away any loose dirt with a soft brush, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Clean your cover every 8-10 months as necessary using a solution of lukewarm water and a mild soap such as Ivory. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry.
- Always allow cover to dry thoroughly before folding for storage.
- We highly recommend 303 Fabric & Vinyl Cleaner which is safe and effective. Be aware that repeated cleanings can diminish the water repellency of marine canvas. 303 High Tech Fabric Guard will restore water repellency to factory-new levels.