Are Boat Covers Waterproof?

3rd Jul 2019 | Posted by Jessie G-W
Are Boat Covers Waterproof?

Why should I purchase a boat cover?

A boat cover is a crucial addition to your boat in order to keep it in the best condition possible. Boat covers help to protect your boat from many different weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and the strong summer sun. A boat cover also protects your water vessel from dust and dirt while being towed.

custom boat cover on mastercraft boat

Savvy Boater offers several types of boat covers for a wide variety of different boats and other watercrafts. Ranging from pontoon boat covers to bass boat covers to inflatable boat covers, you are sure to find the perfect fit for your boat here.

Are boat covers waterproof?

Yes and no. While boat covers are made to protect your boat from heavy rain, UV rays, and other undesirable environmental effects, your boat also requires a resistance to rotting so as to stay in tip top shape. In order to have a mildew-free boat, your boat cover must maintain a certain level of breathability. A boat cover that will not let water in, will also not let water out—which is not something you want. If our boat covers were fully waterproof, there would be little to no air flow through the boat which would result in mildew buildup. Gross! So, instead of being entirely waterproof, our boat covers have some level of ‘water repellency’ while maintaining breathability with fabric that allows for ventilation.

What type of boat cover will I need?

Savvy Boater carries an extensive range of boat covers from two industry leading brands: Carver and Westland. Both brands offer top quality boat covers in an array of high-quality fabrics, colors and fit options. The fit you choose for your boat cover will depend on your needs. Carver and Westland offer a variety of covers that all vary in level of breathability and water repellency, while also ensuring resistance against mildew. In terms of water repellency, Westland’s Sharkskin Supreme boat cover is one of the best. Rated 5/5 for water resistance and 4/5 for breathability and mildew resistance, the 100% solution dyed polyester is their most popular boat cover fabric. If you are looking for something that will best repel water, while also maintaining airflow, the Westland Sharkskin Supreme boat cover is an excellent option.

Other Fabrics

The Sunbrella fabric, which is carried by both Carver and Westland, is also another exceptional boat cover to consider. Composed of 100% Solution Dyed Acrylic, Sunbrella is rated 4/5 for water repellency, but 5/5 for breathability and mildew resistance. For someone who is worried about their boat staying dry, but also very conscious about the potential for buildup of mildew and rot, the Sunbrella boat cover would be perfect. If you plan to cruise your boat in salt-water, you will definitely need this premium fabric as well. In both cases the Sunbrella is a great versatile fabric for your boat cover and is conveniently produced by both brands that Savvy Boater carries.

Another factor to take into consideration when choosing the right boat cover for your boat is the type of climate you live in. For example, if you live somewhere where it is constantly hot and humid, such as Florida or the south, you’ll want a boat cover with lots of air circulation to prevent a buildup of mildew. In this case, the Carver SunDura boat cover is a brilliant option, with high ratings of breathability and airflow. If you live in a climate where there is a fair amount of rain or snow, you also need to be wary when deciding which boat cover to purchase. The boat covers rated highest in terms of water resistance will obviously be best for weather conditions like such, so Carver’s SunDura Fabric, the Westland Sharkskin Supreme, and the Sunbrella fabric would all be great options.

bimini top on speedboat

Although boat covers are not entirely waterproof, they are still made to repel and resist water, dirt, rot, and other adverse elements. Depending on your specific needs, Carver and Westland are sure to carry the boat cover you are looking for. From aluminum fishing boat covers to pontoon covers, Savvy Boater has it all. Whether it be a basic utility cover for a more low-cost choice, or a custom cover made for your exact boat for a higher price, the right boat cover for you is just a few clicks away.

Boat Cover Accessories

Savvy Boater also offers an extensive assortment of accessories that are sure to keep your boat cover in mint condition. Check out our collection of Carver and Westland support poles, tie downs, and rope cinches here to see what best suits your needs.