Boat canopy or cover?

[setty7]

Okay guys I posted a question a month or so back asking of any storage places in town but all seem to be pretty steep in price. So my parents are letting my gf's dad's boat stay at our house because the new neighborhood they are moving to wont allow boats or trailers on the driveway etc. so my parents said its fine to keep it at our house. My question now is do we just buy a cover for the boat because it will be kept in the backyard or do we buy one of those carport canopy type things to store it under? What's the advantages/disadvantages of both? And any brands we should look at? It's a 17ft key west. Thanks guys!!

[bman]

The ease of a canopy far outweighs the cost... I hate having to uncover and cover the boat every-time I want to work on it.

[setty7]

The ease of a canopy far outweighs the cost... I hate having to uncover and cover the boat every-time I want to work on it.

You have a great point! What can I expect to pay for a canopy vs a cover?

[SS-342]

A cover will keep it cleaner. I have sort of both and our boat would be dirty if not covered. I back the boat under a shelter and cover it to keep out dust, leaves and animals. Like bman said, it can get old covering and uncovering. Kind of like having to brush you teeth, I guess.

[DEMON]

Both can be a pain. Pick the less annoying. Canopy is easier. Just back boat in and you are done. They do protect from the sun but don't keep out dirt, leaves, animals, etc. Covers keep the elements out but don't usually do much to protect the sides of the boat from sun damage. You also, have to let the boat dry after washing before putting on the cover to prevent mildew and even then they tend to mildew just from the humidity. Heavy rain can also be a problem unless the cover is propped up in all the right places to prevent pooling and cover sag. I think the best solution is both. A canopy and a simple elastic cover (no straps needed) to keep the dirt out.

[setty7]

thanks guys, where should I look to find a canopy and a cover? looking to buy a canopy thats durable and somewhat inexpensive.

[BeachRum1962]

Try Sam's or Costco for canopies. I bought a 10x20 from Sam's about 6 years ago and it is still standing tall. Find one that you can buy replacement parts for like King Canopy and it will last as long as you want it to. I paid about $200 for this one http://www.samsclub.com/sams/shop/produ ... tId=131317 6 years ago and it is $250 now. I found reasonable semi-custom covers on iboats.com (<$200).

[setty7]

If I get an enclosed canopy do I need a cover for the boat also? Thanks guys

[BeachRum1962]

Demon speaks the truth

[DEMON]

If I get an enclosed canopy do I need a cover for the boat also? Thanks guys

Yes, If you want to keep out the dust, leaves, critters, etc. But since you'll have a canopy, you can buy the cheapo cover from Wally World. Make sure you get one with the elastic band. That way you won't have to use the straps to hold it in place. Get one that is (1) size bigger than what is recommended for your boat size. It'll be easier to get on & off.