New O'Day 322 owner looking for bimini recommendations

[ksouers]

I just recently purchased hull #091. Mechanically it's in pretty good shape but needs some spit and polish to look better. So, I have fresh bottom paint and a new cutlass bearing. Still need some interior details to finish out the clean-up.

To that end I'm looking for some recommendations for a bimini. Right now she is naked so we have a blank slate to work with. I just need a manufacturer and dimensions. Sunbrella shade preferred. Possible addition of a dodger in the future. I like plenty of shade for lunches on the hook in some quiet cove.

Kevin

 

[Project_Mayhem]

These are usually custom made by canvas shops. You can also take measurements and buy a pre-made one. If you want to make your own, Sailrite has lots of tutorials and kits

 

[shemandr]

Definitely measure. More difficult than it appears. Of course it has to be below the boom if you want to sail with it. At a height the backstay will limit how for back it can go. For width it has to be inside the gunnel and outside the combing. That area is curved on most boats so you'll have juggle a bit to get one width more narrow than the back and less narrow than in the front. Your mainsheet arrangement could limit the front edge. Also note the angles the jib sheets would cross the deck hopefully forward of the frame.
The good part is that there're many prefabricated Bimini's made for small power boats. Here's a search:
Boat biminis
The best is a custom made by a pro. They are dear but the pros earn their money on those. A good looking and designed Bimini/dodger is a pleasure that makes the boat just plain better. Also if they know you may have a dodger made they can assist in design features blend them together.

 

[ksouers]

Thanks guys. I'm actually looking for a bit more personal experience from other 322 owners. I've had biminis on other boats, I'm familiar with the measuring process. I've had the flimsy aluminum framed canopies, I'm not a fan.

I've been looking at Carver brand with stainless steel frames and Sunbrella canopies. But their widest is 102 inches, my beam is 105 inches at the point I expect to place the mount. 102 inches places the mount on an outward-sloped coaming. As for the backstay, a zipper and hole in the canopy should take care of that. But how far inside the aft bow?

Thanks,
Kevin