Best Boat Covers for 2021 – Reviews, Ratings and Buyers Guide

Boat rides can be the highlight of the week for some people. Whether you have a brand new boat or an older model, you undoubtedly feel the need to take care of your vessel, to enhance its durability.

Taking care of your boat will always make you feel better about its chances at long-term durability.

In order to accomplish this, you will need certain accessories and tools to make sure your boat remains in good condition for a long time.

Even for its internal care, some items are required. One of the most important items for this function is a boat cover.

To help you get the right boat cover, we have done extensive research and shared the results of that research here.

Along with that, we have also discussed the many factors and elements that will help you choose the perfect one for your boat. Things like durability, shipping speed, fit, price, and fabric choices play a role in selecting the perfect boat cover. Boat cover brands aren't as well known to some, so you have to dig deep into the industry to find the perfect one for you. It's also important to know if your boat cover is made in the USA or at least shipping from somewhere in the USA when you order it. Some will come from overseas and by the time they get to you, boating season might be over. 

Our Top Boat Cover Reviews 2021

If you are confused about which cover to purchase, don't worry. In this boat cover reviews, we have provided information on some great ones. You will undoubtedly find the best boat cover for your boat. Consider this a boat cover selector, regardless of what your needs are. 

1. Classic Accessories StormPro (#1 Overall)

If you are familiar with this brand, then you know that they always offer great products for their customers.

This boat cover is no different. This boat cover is perfect for small boats (up to 12'-24' Long x  68"-116" Width), and it comes with many amazing facilities.

For instance, the package includes support poles. These prevent water or other substances from pooling on top of the cover.

As a result, the product does not wear down quickly and remains intact for a long time.

This heavy duty waterproof boat cover, with a 600D rating, is durable also because of the material used to make it. The material is polyester, and it is known for its long-lasting and color holding properties. 

This product comes with 68 inches of beam width and 12-14 feet of length. However, for a better fit, the elastic cord has been sewn into its bottom hem. This means the cover will be held in place tightly. 

But, to ensure the tightness even further, it includes a great strapping system. The straps are adjustable, and the buckles can be released and attached conveniently whenever necessary.

One drawback is that the included straps disintegrate easily. After a few months of use, they might wear down or not work as effectively anymore.

Additionally, it does not protect the boat from mildew, which is unpleasant. It does alright with dirt and soiling, but mildew is a different story. It's also easy to clean bird droppings off of this cover, which can come into play, depending on where you keep the boat.

Despite it's downsides, overall this is a good product compared to other boat covers. At this price range, this is really a great deal.

2. MSC Heavy Duty 600D Marine Grade Polyester Canvas

If you want a waterproof boat cover that keeps its promises and stands up to your expectations, then here’s the perfect one for you. This product comes with many great features that make it an ideal solution.

First of all, it is made using marine grade polyester canvas. That is the material most people look for when they are searching for a good boat cover.

To make the top even more durable and water-resistant, its surface is coated with double polyethylene.

To ensure this product lasts even longer, it comes with a good quality storage bag. This protects the cover when it is stored away.

The top also comes with a unique design. This feature makes it great for mooring and highway travel alike. Even if you store the cover for a long time, you shouldn't have any issues with it.

To make sure the cover fits perfectly on your boat, adjustable straps have been included with it.

After you have surrounded your boat by the top, use the straps to fasten it down. This ensures that the wrap will not be blown away by the wind.

Support poles are often necessary to prevent low spots on a top. Hence, they have been included in this product. So, you will not have to spend extra bucks on any accessories.

Many times, users end up with the wrong sized product. Because of this, you need to be very careful when choosing a size. In some cases, water leaks from the seams at times.

3. Classic Accessories Stellex Boat Cover

There are a lot of cover options out there. But not all of them are the best choice. Whether you're looking at pontoon boat covers or a cover for a yacht, you have to feel good about the quality of the product. 

Because of this, it is normal for you to have doubts when purchasing a product. 

In this case, however, you don't need to have those typical reservations.

For added durability, this cover is made of polyester Stellex fabric. This material prevents the top from tearing down or getting frayed. This means you will not have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.

This material also keeps it protected in all types of weather. Whether it is snowing outside or raining, no moisture will penetrate the layer and reach your boat.

This product is one of the best boat covers for hauling your boat on a trailer. The cover includes trailer straps which make it easy to secure the cover on long road trips. Along with that, it also includes a storage bag for protection of the top.

This product makes it so that you don't have to worry about whether it will fit your boat. The cover comes with integrated buckles and a convenient strap system to hold the cover in place.

To ensure a tighter fit, this top comes with elastic hemming. The cord makes sure the cover is wrapped as tightly as possible around the vessel. The fabric choices of the manufacturer are important for boat covers, and this one does not disappoint. 

As a result, it will not flap during stormy or windy weather.

The support poles included with it are made of plastic. This means that they won't last as long, and you may need to replace them soon.

4. Seamander Trailerable Runabout Boat Cover

Are you looking for a trailerable waterproof boat cover that will provide optimal protection to your vessel?

If so, this may be the perfect product for your boat!

The package includes adjustable straps, which provide many benefits. For instance, you can wrap the top tightly on the boat using these straps.

They also prove to be advantageous when it comes to trailers.

This cover is very sturdy. 600D marine-grade woven polyester canvas has been used to make the top. Its surface is coated with double polyurethane. All these factors ensure that it doesn’t tear or fray easily.

All of these features also solidify its waterproof properties. It can also protect your vessel from snow, debris, and excessive sunlight.

The cover also includes interlocking double stitched seams, which are threaded by marine-grade material.

This means that water will be prevented from entering the top at all times. Even a heavy rainfall should be unable to penetrate the cover.

To guarantee more longevity, this comes with a mesh bag that keeps the product secure when not in use.

Be very cautious when picking out the color or size of your product. A lot of users get sent the wrong ones, which is unpleasant. The straps also leave a little bit to be desired. Some people think they are a let down.

5. Leader Accessories 600D Waterproof Trailerable Runabout Boat Cover

When looking for the best waterproof boat cover, it helps to choose one from a reliable brand.

This brand is one of the more dependable ones in the industry. This brand has a line of covers that are designed to fit many different types and styles of boats. 

This product comes with a lot of amazing features. It's really a good product that will satisfy boat lovers of all kinds.

For instance, this cover has six separate sizes that can fit different hull styles. This allows you to use it in a wide variety of boats.

The top also includes elements that make it waterproof and long-lasting. The fabric used to make the cover is 600D marine grade polyester. This material is well-known for its sturdiness and durability.

Also, the seams on the cover have been double stitched. This is to ensure no water enters the cloth at any point. It also comes with straps reinforced on the stitching to guarantee water resistance.

If you want a trailerable boat cover, then you better not miss out on this. The cover is perfect for both long term storage and trailering. Moreover, the elastic cord also allows the cover to fit tightly around the vessel.

To resist the growth of mildew on the boat, rear air vents have been installed on the product. So, the combination of this feature along with the cover's weatherproof properties makes sure it is fully UV and mildew resistant.

The product does not work without support poles. This means you'll need to use them in all circumstances. Some users report that the color of the top fades somewhat easily. This can be a drawback for some, while others don't mind that much.

6. Budge B-621-X7 600 Denier Hard/T-Top Boat Cover

Editor's Note:  this items is no longer for sale online.  

Durability and ease of installation are two important aspects of boat covers.

However, not all of them offer these features simultaneously. But here’s a product that includes these elements, and much more.

Your boat needs to be protected equally in all weather conditions. To make sure the top can do that, it is made of 600D marine grade polyester material. The fabric will protect the vessel from snow, rainfall, and UV light. 

The material also adds durability to the cover. Even if it is used daily, the fabric will not tear down or get frayed. This means you will not have to worry about replacing the product anytime soon.

The top comes with a really unique design compared to other boat covers. This prevents the build-up of condensation inside the boat. As a result, it remains safeguarded from mildew, rust, and mold.

The cover also includes sewn-in straps along with a heavy-shock cord hem. The straps ensure the layer remains in place even when trailering, and provide a custom fit on the vessel.

The manual of this product provides information regarding the size of it. Hence, you will face no hassle when choosing the right one for your boat.

The seams are stitched using nylon straps. Unfortunately, they cannot hold the entry of water into the boat. Although they claim the cover is thick, that is not really the case. It is pretty lightweight.

7. AngLink Waterproof Boat Cover

The main purpose of a boat cover is to secure the vessel from substances that can potentially harm it.

For that, the top itself needs to stay intact, which a lot of them often fail to do. And that’s what makes this one different from the rest.

This cover is made of 600D marine-grade polyester canvas. This material is widely known for its sturdiness. This means you can trust the cover to last for a while without having to replace or fix it.

On the other hand, the inner layer is coated with polyurethane while the seams come with a waterproof strip.

Overall, the combination of all these features makes sure no water will leak from the cover.

However, your vessel also needs to be protected from excessive sunlight and fungi. This product fulfills that responsibility as well. The top provides UV protection and prevents the build-up of condensation inside the boat.

This product has been made following a unique dyeing process, which makes sure there is no fade in color even after long-term use.

The wrap needs to be bound tightly to your vessel. For that purpose, the package includes high-strength windproof buckles and 11 pieces of adjustable straps. Moreover, it also includes an elastic hem, further ensuring the security of the boat.

Unfortunately, this cover is not meant for towing. It might tear down while you are at it. Furthermore, if water starts leaking from the product somehow, then your boat will get stained.

8. EmpireCovers Triton Boat Covers

With a lot of options out there, it is hard to determine which ones are trustworthy and which ones aren't.

However, that is not the kind of dilemma you will have to face with this product. And you are about to know why.

A lot of covers lack ventilation spots, which might encourage the growth of mold and mildew in a vessel. You can easily avoid those problems with this boat cover.

The ventilation spots make the boat breathable, which prevents the existence of such substances in the vessel.

Moisture will not be able to get inside your boat either, while this product is safeguarding it. That is because the fabric used to make it is completely waterproof.

600D polyester is known to be the best material for such products. This material has been used to make this cover, which is why the quality of it is top-notch and praiseworthy.

There's no need to worry about whether or not this top will fit your vessel. That is because it comes with a heavy-duty shock cord hem, which will make sure the product wraps around perfectly and stays in place.

This property also prevents the entry of snow, UV light, and dust inside the vessel. Since it will remain enclosed entirely, there is no chance they will enter the boat.

The straps that come with this product are not very long-lasting. They may fall apart after a few days of use. Also, the color of this cover fades pretty quickly, which can be disappointing for the users.

9. BEIGE/TAN VORTEX HEAVY DUTY VHULL FISH SKI RUNABOUT COVER

Are you looking for a cover that is good for storage, mooring, and trailering at the same time?

If so, we've got a product to check out. This fishing ski product remarkably provides all these facilities, while offering much more.  

Unlike most of its competitors, this comes at an affordable price. So, if you don’t feel like spending too much on a new boat cover, then you can choose this option without any worries.

Despite the low price, this provides some great features. For instance, it is made of 600D fabric. The fabric has the ideal thickness of a boat cover, which makes both the storage and the installation of the top very convenient.

To prevent your boat from rusting or growing fungi, the top prohibits the entry of water in the vessel. Even during heavy rainfall, you will not have to worry about anything.

But that's not all. The package includes ten straps, which will prohibit the top from flapping around during a storm or windy weather. It will also prevent the entry of debris, sunlight, and snow.

However, the product is not as durable as it is advertised to be. It usually lasts for about a year. On the other hand, the top can be regarded as the best bass boat cover, but it doesn't work with other types of boats all that much.

10. iCOVER Pontoon Boat Cover

If you are familiar with this brand, then you already know that they produce amazing covers.

And this particular one is no different. Every feature that makes a cover perfect is included in this product.

If you like lightweight tops, then this one is an apt option for you. This product is made of 300D marine grade polyester. So, the cover will not tear down or get frayed easily, and it will not feel very heavy either.

With this cover, you will not have to worry about any weather conditions, as it is extremely versatile. Your vessel will remain safeguarded from UV light, snow, debris, and growing fungi. Cleaning will not be a matter of concern for you either.

Furthermore, the cover includes an integrated buckles and adjustable straps system. These elements will make sure the top fits perfectly around the vessel. As a result, it won't get blown away when there's too much wind.

On the other hand, the heavy-duty elastic cord is also sewn into the fabric. The cord facilitates an even better fit, which entirely restricts the entrance of substances.

This waterproof boat cover comes with support poles. This is to make sure no water pools at the top of the product. Also, the cover is designed in a way that allows extra room inside the vessel for additional accessories.

However, you will need to be a little cautious with the sizes, as a lot of users report, receiving the wrong size. On the other hand, you may have a hard time while installing it. The product does not come with proper instructions.

Things to Look for before Buying

While the goal is to purchase a good boat cover, some factors determine how apt it is going to be. If you don’t consider these elements, then you will be at a loss.

Hence, you should note down the list of fundamentals and your preferences. To make the task easier for you, we have mentioned the key features that you should focus on.

If you don’t miss out on these, then you will be satisfied with your purchased product for a long time.

The Material Used to Make the Cover

This aspect is critical in the selection of your boat cover. The material determines the longevity of the cover, as well as the extent of its protection. So, you shouldn’t choose a mediocre one to save some money.

Generally, two materials are used to make boat covers. One is nylon, and the other is polyester. While both of these are durable and provide optimal protection, they do have their own set of differences that you should not overlook.

Both materials are tough. This means when it comes to sturdiness and toughness, you can consider them both. However, polyester is better in some aspects, and hence, it is more preferable.

For instance, it is capable of holding color better than nylon. Therefore, the color on a polyester cover will not fade as easily.

Furthermore, they provide more resistance to water. We will discuss later on as to why that is beneficial.

Resistance to Water

Surprisingly, water is one of the substances that damage the boat interiors. They can cause mold or other types of fungus to grow on the vessel.

If you want to avoid that at all costs, then buy a waterproof boat cover.

The growth of fungus can cause the boat to smell bad. Moreover, the interiors will deteriorate, while the formation of bacteria increases. To make sure these don't happen, manufacturers make covers accordingly.

If the layer, by any chance, lets water in, then the insides of your vessel might rust as well. Hence, you need to be sure about whether or not the cover will protect the boat from the water.

The Thickness of the Layer

The denier rating of it usually determines the thickness of the material.

The higher the rating, the thicker and heavier the cover is. And that increases the effectiveness of the cover.

Materials with 300 or 600 deniers are the most common ones. Moreover, if you buy a polyester cover with a 600 denier rating, it will undoubtedly provide better protection than its competitors.

Size 

Just how boats have different sizes, so do their covers. If you don’t focus on this aspect, then you might as well end up with a product that is inadequately small or large for your vessel.

If you want to find the right-sized cover, then you need to focus on two dimensions. The first being the centreline length of the boat, the second being its beam width.

Usually, such information is provided on the manual of the boat. Even if it is not, you can use simple methods to measure it.

The manufacturer will also provide the size of the cover. So, after you have determined the measurements of your ship, you can effortlessly find the most suitable cover for it by checking the size information properly.

Sealed Seams and Elastic Hem

Seams are usually the weakest part of clothing. Especially in a boat cover, they can be the point where water gets access to the boat. Or they can also tear down or get frayed eventually.

To avoid problems such as this, manufacturers double stitch the seams with waterproof material. This prohibits any substance from entering and also adds longevity to the cover.

Even if you find the ideal sized cover for your boat, it still may struggle to be the perfect fit. This part depends on the hem of the cloth to some extent.

For a better fit, you should go for a layer that has an elastic hem. They hold the cover tightly while ensuring no moisture enters the boat. Moreover, this element also prevents the cover from sagging, making it look new for a long time.

Tying Straps and Buckles

To prevent your cover from blowing off when there’s heavy wind out there, you should securely tie it to your boat. In most cases, tying straps take care of this task.

They can be quite handy in other ways, as well. For instance, they keep both the cover and the boat safely held to the trailer.

To make the task of tying and untying the straps easier, many covers contain quick release buckles with adjustable features.

Most layers come with these characteristics, so they won't be hard to find. Just keep an eye on the manual or the boat cover reviews, and you will be good to go.

Boat Cover Types

After you have considered all your boat needs and preferences, you need to look into the kind of cover you will need. There are three common and widely used ones, and we have discussed them briefly below.

Convertible Tops 

They are the most preferred ones. That is because these are quite similar to car covers. You will only have to attach it to the bow and then unroll it until it reaches the stern of the boat. Moreover, they can withstand pressure against wind and protect the vessel from various substances.

Mooring Covers 

These covers are a lot like convertible tops. You have to spread them across the boat in a similar way as well. Except, they are used to store the boat in the water, rather than outside. Their main objective is to prevent water splashes from getting into the vessel.

Bimini Covers

In terms of end-use, the covers are quite different. Several metal poles are attached to the frame of the boat. Afterward, canvas material is tied at the top. But, the main purpose of this one is not to protect the boat; rather, it is to keep the passengers safe from rain and UV light.

Should You Buy a Used Boat Cover? 

That is quite a tricky question. The answer can be both yes and no based on your take on it. However, we do think you should buy a used boat cover, and here’s why:

Less Cost 

It's no secret that used products often cost less than their brand new versions. And boat covers are no exception.

You can even get a marine-grade polyester cover at a very low price. They usually charge a lot, hence getting one at a very affordable price will be a great deal for just about anyone.

On the other hand, you probably have already spent a lot on your boat and its accessories. Spending a little less on the cover can surely reduce the overall costs.

Ease of Restoring Durability

If you think the product has frayed or torn down, you can easily switch it back. You can use the help of a professional in this case to avoid any hassle.

On the other hand, if the cover has lost its waterproof properties, then you can use a fabric guard to restore it. There are multiple products available that serve this purpose.

More importantly, we think that with a little maintenance, the product will be as good as new. So you don't have anything to lose here.

How to Cover Your Boat?

If you are going to cover your boat, you should do it properly. But the task is not complicated at all. Rather, once you get the gist of it, the set-up will become hassle-free for you.

Get a Support Frame

Whether you are getting your boat a nylon cover or a marine-grade polyester canvas, it will need a supporting framework. This is to make sure no water, snow, or dust pools at the top of the layer.

The best material for this is steel. Several brands offer custom-fit frames out of steel electrical channels. These are easy to store, as well as durable.

Traditional wooden frames are sturdy, as well. However, they are difficult to build and store. You will have to spend a lot of time and money on them. But, if you want some fancy frames, then they are a good option.

Plastic pipes are the cheap and short-lasting option. But, they provide great support as long as they survive.

Tie the Cover Tightly

After you have gotten the proper framework, make sure you tie the cover tightly. If the top flaps in the wind, it will tear down or fray quickly.

However, if you are still confused about the process, then you can go through some youtube tutorials.

How to Maintain?

No matter how heavy-duty your chosen cover is, it will not last if not taken care of properly. Fortunately, this is quite effortless, and with a few instructions, you will not face any sort of trouble with it. 

Therefore, we are providing you with all the necessary information here, on how to maintain your boat cover in different phases.

During Installation

There are some factors to look out for when installing a boat cover.

For instance, you should remove any parts of the boat that might tear or pierce the cover. If you can’t do that, then you can simply put a pad on those parts.

Afterward, you must tie the cover down tightly to the boat. The heavy wind might cause the top to waggle or get blown away. To avoid that, make sure it is securely tied.

During Use

Often, boat tops can pool a lot of water above them. This can harm the cover, as well as wear down its resistance to water. Hence, make sure this does not happen. Use support poles to avoid this phenomenon.

After Use

Don't let other substances sit on the top- for instance, snow, dust, leaves, etc. Use some soapy water and a rag to clean it regularly. Or at least every week.

With so many dos to remember, there are also some don'ts to look out for. And one of them is-  washing the cover with detergent. Some detergents diminish the waterproof property of fabrics. However, if the manual suggests that detergents will not harm the cover, then you may use it.

Also, it is essential to restore the water repellency of the top. That is because, with time, the cloth becomes less resistant to water. For that purpose, you can use a reliable fabric guard, which will make the top waterproof again.

Before Storage

Before you store the cover, make sure it is washed and dried properly. Also, use a nice bag or case to store the top. A durable one will keep the layer protected from heat or water.

Top-Rated Brands on the Market

It’s only normal to look for high-quality tops for your boat. However, not every brand offers such a top-notch product; hence, it is not easy to trust them.

Therefore, we have mentioned some trustworthy brands right here, which will make shopping for an apt boat cover much easier for you.

iCover 

If you are looking for an online seller that will deliver the product right at your doorsteps, then you are in good luck.

iCover specializes in grill and boat covers. More importantly, they charge very reasonably. That is because there is no intermediary between the consumers and the seller. 

Nevertheless, the quality of their covers will never disappoint you.

Leader Accessories

With 30 years of existence in the market, Leader Accessories has made quite a name for itself. While introducing a lot of useful products for the adventurers, it also made sure the standard of the accessories remains top-grade.

With the help of their innovative manufacturing technology, some of the finest boat covers are produced. But that is not all. They also make and sell other boat parts- for instance, boat seats, watercraft, etc.

PrimeShield

Here’s a reliable Chinese brand that specializes in covers for several vehicles- starting from motorcycles to boats. So, if you need a bunch of tops for different transports, then you can buy them all from here.

You can rest assured because they use the best materials to manufacture their covers. Hence, ensuring the remarkable quality of the products. Moreover, this aspect also makes sure that the layer will last for quite a while.

If you are still not convinced, then don’t worry. This brand offers a long term warranty for your peace of mind.

AmazonBasics

If you are looking for a brand that offers a wide range of products, then look no further . Starting from kitchen appliances to vehicle accessories, it does not fall short.

The best part is, all of its products are top-notch- and the boat covers are no exception. They are made using the finest materials, for greater longevity and reliability.

What's more, you will be getting free delivery along with a long-term warranty. What more could you possibly need!

Classic Accessories

Oldest sellers are often the most trustworthy ones, which is why you should give this a try. It started its journey back in 1983, and it has been producing commendable products ever since.

In the beginning, they were more focused on other vehicles. However, over time, the manufacturing of boat covers started, and they managed to pull that off very well.

From then to this date, they have been offering great quality boat tops. These are sturdy and suitable for different types of boats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to cover the boat with a tarp?

Fasten down the tarp at first. Make sure there are no loose ends, and it is tied securely. Afterward, make sure there are no low spots. If there are some, then use a support framework. Lastly, create some ventilation spots to avoid the growth of mildew.

2. How to keep boat cover from collecting water?

Make sure there are no low spots on the cover. Even if there is, use timbers or some other form of support poles.

3. How to cover a boat for winter?

Before you begin, you need to clean the vessel entirely. Bimini tops work the best as winter boat covers; but you have to make sure it is completely dry before you install it. Afterwards, wrap the cover tightly around the vessel- use straps and buckles for this purpose. Also, use support poles to avoid low spots.

4. How to tie a boat cover knot?

The first and foremost task is to select an apt rope. After it has been attached to the strap (which will result in two ends of it hanging out of the strap), take two ends of the rope, and wrap them around one another thrice. Then, make a loop on one end of the rope, and slip it between the attached parts.

5. How to cover your boat at the dock?

At first, you need to park the boat. Then, install the support poles and use straps and buckles to fasten down the cover around the vessel.

6. How to install boat cover support pole?

Boat cover support poles are easy to install. However, poles made of different materials may follow different installation processes. Most of them need to be tied with a rope to the boat. Other than that, their manuals contain every information that you will need for the process.

7. What size boat cover do I need?

That depends on the size of your boat. At first, you need to determine the dimensions of your vessel, and then look for the correct size of the boat cover.

Final Words

With so many great options out there, selecting only one among them becomes difficult. However, you are very much aware of the needs of your boat, and that should be your top-most priority.

Even among all the top boat covers out there, one is surely more suitable for your vessel than others.

If you are still confused which one you should buy, then give our first recommendation a try: Classic Accessories StormPro. You will thank us later.