Boat Cover Tips

NZ Fishing Media’s project boat is an Extreme 745 Centre Console, a reasonably voluminous vessel which by its very nature needs a cover as there is plenty left exposed to the elements at its OBC hardstand if it isn’t covered up. It is also a vessel with lots of fittings, such as a MinnKota electric motor and bowsprit/anchor, that stick out beyond the vessel’s normal lines. Getting the cover on and off the boat has been made simple with a two-person technique that involves rolling it up when taking it off, then reversing the process when putting it back on.

Boat covers are wonderful things, protecting our ‘babies’ from the elements when they are not out on the water.

Step 1: The rolled-up cover is fitted over the bow/anchor and MinnKota from ground level.

Step 2: Getting on board, the crew continue to unfurl the cover, working towards the stern.

Step 3: Being a walk-around makes unrolling the cover back a simple job as there are no narrow gunwales to negotiate.

Step 4: Nearly done, the cover is worked back towards the cockpit where it will be taken back over the outboard. The hard work finished, all that is left is to go around and tie it down. When it is time to take the boat out again, follow the steps in reverse. Two crew make the job easier, but with the cover rolled up, it can be handled solo.

May 2022 - Grant Dixon
New Zealand Fishing News Magazine.
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