Bimini on 280

[Ed]

lOOKING AT A USED 280 (1996) OUT OF WATER S0 IT is not rigged. Main sheet attaches just ahead of the wheel. Is it possible (practial) to add a bimini? I need one desperately due to a medicl condition. Between this nice used boat and a new 290 (306) based primarally on the ability to add the bimini - don't want to duck to steer - how much clearance between the boomand the deck?Anyone with this model and no traveler system using a bimini?If you own a 280, what do you think about it Vs. the 290/306?

 

[Bob Knott]

Can You... should you...

I owned a 96 280 before moving up, and the boom was too low to properly install a bimini, and I'm only 5'11".I had a custom dodger built but never could do the bimini. The boom could be raised of course using the topping lift, but then the sail shape was wrong once the sail was raised and you would have to go forward and lower the topping life after raising the sail, then before lowering the sail you need to go forward again and raise the topping lift before dropping the sail or the boom crashes into the bimini.Sorry for the bad news.Just my 2 censt but I never could make it work.Bob KnottH380

 

[Ed Fluss]

H280 Bimini and other stuff

Hi Ed, (Im Ed too!) I have the H280 installed mid-boom sheeting and the FULL bimini. If you ask me, health or not ITS A NECESSITY if you plan to spend time on the boat. I bought my 280 without the bimini and I had to replace the boom (with new SELDEN boom) add the full bimini and rigg it for MID-BOOM sheeting. Hunter sent me all the parts and after some tussle with the dealer for his time, he installed it all. IT WORKS GREAT! The bimini on long weekends at anchor is like being under a cool porch at a small summer home. As for the 280 vs 290 I guess this depends on a few things. 1)Do you have guests for overnights? the 290 two cabins could help with some privacy as the 280 is wide open below. On the other hand, I luv this because it makes it feel very open, well lit, airy and spacious below deck (many comment on this) I weekend with 2-4 and its ok however I cant wait to move up to a 340!2) Do you need a shallow or deep keel. I have the 5 ft deep keel and performance and comfort in rolling water is great. But, I cant get to all the neat LI South shore beaches with 5ft of draft.3) Not sure what your price point or size limit is, but Im sure like me, after a season or so with a 280 you will want to move up!So other things to check and get -Battery Charger or Solar panel-2 Batteries, and check how they are mounted (goos straps and brackets)-sump pump for shower and cooler drain-dripless stuffing box (dry bilge is great!)If you would like to email me with any questions please do - sailwriter@yahoo.com Im in NYC if you care to come take a look at my sheeting and bimini. Ed