Canvas color in hot climates

[Daryl Williams]

We have just bought a new MacGregor 26X and are planning to sail it on the ICW from 10/01 for about 6 months. We will put a dodger and a bimini on the boat.Our choices of canvas are Black (matches boat trim), Mediteranean Blue everyone loves blue on a boat) or Oyster Grey (should be cooler in FL). What colors are usually used in FL and other southern states? How do these colors suit the boat? Other comments?

 

[Jim Cook]

Burgandy & Grey combo

This is our color combination. Our boot stripe is black and we installed a black bowguard. Everyone remarks how good everything looks together. If you are having a new bimini made, make sure you request a small clear vinyl window positioned where you can see the mainsail luft.We changed from blue Sunbrella to burgandy and will never go back. I have not detected any heat or sun exposure problems from the bimini window, but it makes the sailing MUCH EASIER.JimC"Dream Chaser"

 

[LaDonna Bubak - CatalinaOwners]

Gray

I think your idea of oyster gray would be the coolest choice. Not only that but the likelihood of it fading is considerably less than a dark color. LaDonna

 

[Jim Ewing]

I'd go light

We've got a navy bimini and dodger (in FL) and it looks great (matches the boat etc.) but, if I can convince my wife, I'd go with a much lighter color next time. We've got a white sunbrella cover for the boat and it's noticeably cooler with the cover up than just under the bimini alone.However, if you'll be down here for the season the color won't be that important. We really only notice the heat effects in the late spring and summer.Jimh37.5 "Prospect"