Custom Bimini Tops in Palm Harbor, FL

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Motorboat speeding across the water, cream and tan colors, with two people aboard.

Shade, Comfort, and Style for Your Boat

At Harborside Marine Canvas and Upholstery, we design and fabricate custom Bimini tops that provide much-needed shade and protection from Florida’s intense sun. A Bimini top is a versatile solution — offering coverage when you need it and folding away when you want open air. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or relaxing at anchor, a properly fitted Bimini top keeps you and your passengers cooler, more comfortable, and better protected from UV exposure.

Why a Quality Bimini Top Matters

Florida boaters know that the sun can make or break a day on the water. Prolonged exposure leads to discomfort, fatigue, and potential sun damage. A high-quality Bimini top not only shields you from harmful rays but also extends the life of your boat’s seating and console by reducing UV wear.

Benefits of a custom Bimini top include:

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UV protection

for passengers and boat surfaces

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Heat reduction

for cooler deck temperatures

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Flexible coverage

that can be deployed or stowed in seconds

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Improved comfort

for safe movement forward on deck

What Sets Harborside Apart

We combine formal marine canvas training with decades around boats. Our process is hands‑on from the first call. We discuss how you run the boat, where you store it, and what matters most: fast cover on and off, maximum shade at anchor, crystal‑clear sightlines at the helm, or a deck layout that welcomes guests. Then we create an exact template for your hull and hardware, plan reinforcements at chafe points, and select top‑tier fabric and thread. The workmanship shows in the details: straight, tight stitching, clean bindings, strong zippers, and smooth snaps that land where they should. You get a custom result that fits better, lasts longer, and looks right on your boat.

Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf Dodgers

While generic Bimini kits are available, they rarely match the fit, stability, or durability of a custom build. Off-the-shelf versions may flap in the wind, fade quickly, or misalign with your boat’s frame.

Our custom Bimini tops are patterned specifically for your vessel and frame. We account for deck layout, mounting points, and clearance needs to ensure a taut, secure fit that withstands speed, wind, and weather. Reinforced attachment points and marine-grade materials mean your Bimini performs season after season.

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Types of Bimini Tops We Build

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Standard Bimini Tops

Perfect for day cruisers, center consoles, and bowriders, these provide reliable shade over the helm and seating areas.

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Extended Bimini Tops

Offering increased coverage, extended designs are ideal for pontoons, large cruisers, and boats used for entertaining.

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Bimini-to-Dodger Connectors

A fabric or clear panel connection between your Bimini and dodger creates continuous cockpit coverage for maximum protection.

Our Bimini Top Fabrication Process

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01. Consultation

We learn how you use your boat and determine the coverage you need.

02. On‑Boat Templating

Patterns are created directly on your frame for accuracy.

03. Material Selection

Choose from UV-resistant marine fabrics in colors to match your boat.

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04. Fabrication

Panels are cut, reinforced, and stitched with UV-stable thread.

05. Installation and Adjustments

We fit your Bimini, tension the canvas, and ensure smooth folding and storage.

Materials and Features

  • Marine-Grade Fabric – Sunbrella and other UV-resistant options that resist fading and mildew.

  • Reinforced Stitching – Double-stitched seams for durability.

  • Custom Height and Width – Tailored to provide optimal shade without obstructing movement.

  • Optional Side Curtains – Additional protection from wind and spray.

To get the most from your boat cover:

Care and Maintenance

  • Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt and spray.

  • Use only mild, marine-safe cleaners to protect the fabric.

  • Allow to dry completely before storing to avoid mildew.

  • Check hardware periodically for tightness and corrosion.

FAQs About Bimini Tops

  • How long will my Bimini top last?

    With proper care, a custom Bimini top can last 5–7 years or more in Florida’s climate.

  • Can you make a Bimini for any boat?

    Yes. We can design for all boat types, from small skiffs to large cruisers.

  • Will the Bimini affect my boat’s speed?

    When deployed, there may be a slight effect on top speed, but our tensioned designs minimize drag and flapping.

  • Can you add side curtains later?

    Yes. We can add side curtains or forward connectors at any time.

  • Do you offer mobile service for Bimini installations?

    Yes. We can measure, deliver, and install your Bimini at your dock, marina, or home.

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Schedule Your Custom Bimini Top Build

Upgrade your comfort and sun protection with a Bimini top from Harborside Marine Canvas and Upholstery. Call (727) 335-9997 or email hydrasports4@gmail.com to schedule your consultation. We’re available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and offer both in-shop and mobile service.