Bimini use while sailing

[Bob Brewington]

Can a bimini be used while sailing and if so how? Do you have to reef the main? Do you have to relocate the main sheet next to the companionway? Thanks for any help. (New Owner)

 

[Bob F.]

Bimini on Catalina 22

We purchased and mounted a Bimini on our Catalina 22 this summer and it is the best thing since sliced bread. With the heat and sun here in Oklahoma, it makes sailing in mid-day possible and fun as compared to grueling. I have the main sheet at the rear of the boat ala factory and nothing else is required. With the Bimini up and hatch open we are in the shade and get a nice breeze. Unless there is something drastically different between the 22 and 25, I say, by all means sail with the Bimini up.I did purchase the sliding track option for the main mounting pins and that helps position it to better take advantage of the situation.

 

[Howard R.]

Yes

Great boat you there... Of course the name Catalina says enough there. I had a Catalina 25 in 98 that had (and yours may be here) a stern traveler so the bimini should be just in front of it. I've sailed in 5 major storms, 2 tornadoes

 

[mg]

yup

i have one on a 22 to put the bimini up i have to move the boom over to the side to allow the bimini to clear it while unfolding it , once fastened it clears the boom fine. i single hand and pull it down to furl the sail and come into the slip so i can get off the boat easily. if not it would be a pain to squeeze under it to get to the deck and off to the dock to tie off. bty it is the best thing ive ever put on a boat other than a depth sounder. mg

 

[Summer Breeze]

Bimini

Last summer I bought a bimini from Catalina Direct. They have differant types such as aluminum or stainless poles and the type of cloth. Works great. You can't stand under it as they are made to be used when sailing. I have not had a problem with mine. In fact I installed some fixed poles off the rear poles that allows the bimini to be rolled up when not in use. This keeps the bimini out of the way when not in use.