Ultimate pop-top

Posted By: Chris & Lenore - Mac 26S - Teliki
Date: 1/17/08 6:51a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Pop top cover (Alan "Farfarer")

First off - what is Genco charging and what are the features? Eric (Sandpiper - Barrie) had them make one for his Sandpiper and it's nothing like the OEM cover. Probably 4 times as complex with screens, zippered windows, more windows etc. A "piece of art" and probably worth the price. We have been looking at many "upgrades" others have made with the idea that we'll incorporate the best into our OEM cover. If you are making one from scratch, you should consider these in your design - if you cruise and sleep on the boat. The main improvements are mosquito proof, better ventilation and easier entry. I saw one such design on a T/SA North Channel cruise a few years ago and plan to get pictures soon (which I will post). The improvements that worked well were: - attached by snaps and not rope - 4 inch "flap" added all around to positively mosquito proof cover to deck area - crescent shaped cut in side windows and waterproof zippers installed. Can open zipper and pull plastic down for ventilation - and seal quickly when it rains. - bug screen sewn over outside of windows - back flap extended to fully cover companionway, with snaps to attach - "C" shaped cut in back, from top to bottom with waterproof zipper. Just like a tent entrance and can be opened and closed with one hand. This did need a flap of material over the zipper to make it fully watertight I have seen a few covers made by various people but nothing as functional and versatile as the above. The biggest problem for us is finding a canvas shop to do the mods. They are all straight forward and simple but virtually every shop we contacted didn't want a small ($200) job. Guess they are all eating well and don't want more business... Chris