Bimini or No Bimini

[Jimmy Jenkins]

I am trying to decide whether to install a bimini top on my 1978 H30. Mine has the traveler for the main sheet in the cockpit. This limits the length to 5' if I put velco slits for the backstays, 4' if I stop at the backstays. I have never sailed with a bimini and I feel that I will miss not being able to see the Windex and the shape of the main. Also, if I have the bimini a foot below the boom, the top will be so tall the amount of shade will be minimal at anything less than overhead sun. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Jimmy
Port St Lucie, FL

 

[Ken13559]

Jimmy, I guess to Bimini or not to Bimini will largely depends on how much sun you're getting and enjoying or not. Where I am, its almost a sin not to have a bimini. You don't have to check sail shape and windex every minute I suppose, so sticking your head out once in awhile should suffice.

 

[Ed Schenck]

Where you are Jimmy you need a bimini. My H37C is exactly as you describe. I had the advantage of making my own from a Sailrite kit. So I was able to work with adjusting the frame for the boom and winch clearances. Then I mounted it on a 2x4 frame in the basement for measuring, cutting, and sewing.

The mid-bow and aft-bow are about 6'4" as I am 6'1". The forward most bow is just low enough for the boom to clear when sailing. And I have to duck a little to get under it. I only have the one slot for a center backstay. But that gives me 12" more cover behind me, very important.

I tapped and machine screwed the mounts to the toerail to get maximum width. Simple straps to the pushpit rail and two to rings on the toerail keep it up. I will look for a picture to add here to give you an idea of the shape.

Pic: End of Erie Canal on the way to Florida

 

[Jimboyyy]

We have a bimini on our H27 but keep it rolled up and out of the way while sailing. I do not like to sail with the bimini and would rather wear a sunshirt and a tilley while underway. We deploy the bimini at anchor or rain.

 

[seadaddler]

Florida

Don't know how you could not have a bimini in Florida,some kind of sun protection,I have a bimini on my newer H-36 and can add canvas from the dodger to the bimini for great protection but I don't have a backstay or travlar.
Nick

 

[Bill Roosa]

windows in biminis

If you are going to sail with a bimini up having a window to see sail shape and windex are pretty handy. Be sure to check the view angle for both captain and first mate from the helm.

 

[Rick D]

Re: windows in biminis

To second Bill's comment, my dermatologist is happy that I have sailed with a bimini for the last 15 years, except when I race. I had a window put in mine. What works well are twist fasteners on both the top and the bottom to fit a cover. That way, you can cover it from under the bimini when you are at anchor and on the top when you put her to bed for a while. Works very well. It would drive me nuts to sail without a window (or two).

 

[Bill Roosa]

and what about them side panels

ooooooooooeeeeeeeeee!
Gets nice and cozy on a cool day with them puppies rolled down. keeps the helm dry on rainny days too.

yea i can t imagine not having a bimini for the sun and the rain. It is like having a whole nuther room on the boat.

 

[Rick D]

Re: and what about them side panels

Yes, I have an enclosure too. Didn't know we had one until sitting in our boat on our first Catalina Island cruise in early spring. Sitting out having a cocktail, I noticed all the fasteners. We went on a hunt and found the side panels in the forward locker. Took about two hours to put them up the first time. What a wonderful addition for cruising! We use them even in the summer on our mooring since it blows 20-ish knots every afternoon. And, when I finish one of my overnight races, we put it up for the 24 hour motor home. The other guys don't have it nearly so good. Sure makes it easier to get crew!

 

[Steve Dion]

Rick:

That is why they say "Old guys rule". They know how to take care of themselves.

I suppose you guys are coming back up the coast with t-shirts, shorts and drinking cold beer or gin-n-tonics. The rest of those poor S.O.B.'s have three layers under their foulies and trying to drink their hot coffee before it gets cold. <g>

 

[Nereussailor]

Hey Jimmy,

It's Dave. I've got one on mine if you want to take a look some time. I'm still in the same marina, only on the other side of the dock. I did the slits in the sides, and used Velcro to keep it closed. I should have bought zippers, only they weren't in the budget. The budget has increased lately, so I'll be re-doing the whole canvas before summer really hits. Hope all is well with you and Caroline. Call me some time, the number hasn't changed.

Dave

 

[Benny]

"I have never sailed with a bimini and I feel..." If you sail without a Bimini in Florida you obviouly have been doing it solely in the winter or at night. Your call.