Custom Bimini Top Sloop: Enjoy Longer Shade and Comfort

A sloop is made to be enjoyed. Cruising peacefully on the Frisian lakes, mooring at a cozy terrace or spending an entire afternoon bobbing with friends on board. But anyone who has ever spent hours in the full sun on a sloop knows how quickly that becomes uncomfortable. A bimini top offers the perfect solution: shade when you need it, and easy to fold down when the sun is momentarily welcome.

At Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem we make bimini tops especially for sloops. Fully customized, tailored to your type of sloop and your personal wishes. With almost two centuries of experience working with canvas and constructions, we know exactly what works on the water.

Why a Bimini Top on Your Sloop?

Sloops usually sail on sheltered waters where there is less wind than on the open sea. As a result, it can quickly get hot in the cockpit, especially on summer days. A bimini top provides cooling and protects you and your guests from UV rays. But the benefits go further:

Protection from sun and light rain so you can enjoy longer on the water.
Your cushions, upholstery and dashboard are protected from discoloration and wear from UV.
A well-kept, luxurious look to match the character of your sloop.
Flexible to use: the canvas is foldable, you use the bimini only when you want to.
Extra safety for families with children who are sensitive to the sun.
Increase the utility and comfort of your sloop on hot days.

A Bimini Top to Suit Your Type of Sloop

Every sloop has its own character, and the bimini top should match it seamlessly. A bimini that is too large will protrude over the edge; one that is too small will not provide enough shade. This is why we work exclusively to size.

We have extensive experience with bimini tops for popular sloop brands such as Makma, Maril, Oud Huijzer, Corsiva, Antaris, Wato, Sunrise and many others.

Compact sloop (up to 6 meters)

For smaller boats, we usually recommend a 2-bow or light 3-bow bimini. Compact, light and fitting the proportions of the boat. The frame takes up little space when the bimini is folded.

Medium-sized sloop (6 to 8 meters)

A 3-arch bimini provides the ideal balance of coverage and stability here. There is often room to expand the bimini with a rear screen, which is nice during low sun or light rain.

Large sloop or VIP version (8 meters and larger)

For larger sloops, we make spacious 4-arch structures, possibly with side panels and a front flap. This creates a full sheltered area in the cockpit.

Materials and Execution

The quality of a bimini top stands or falls with the materials. At Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem we only use proven brands:

Stainless steel 316 tube frame (minimum 25 mm): stainless, strong and matching the look of your sloop.
High-quality cloth from Sattler Yachtmaster, Sauleda Masacril or Sunbrella in a wide range of colors.
English seams for extra durability and a clean finish.
Lashing straps with stainless steel buckles for tight, vibration-free tensioning.
Tunnels with zippers for easy removal of the fabric for cleaning or winter storage.
Included protective cover (aka ‘banana’) to neatly store the bimini.
Optionally expandable with side panels, rear screen, front flap, lighting or name lettering.

How Does It Work?

Contact us and tell us about your sloop and requirements.
We will come and measure on board or you can bring the sloop to our sailmaker's shop in Lemmer.
Together we choose the canvas, color and any additional options.
We produce the bimini in our own workshop with attention to every detail.
The bimini will be assembled on your sloop, including instructions on operation and maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a bimini top go on any sloop?

Yes, we make custom bimini tops for virtually all types of sloops. Whether you have a Makma, Maril, Corsiva, Antaris or any other brand, we will tailor the design to your boat.

Can I still stand upright under the bimini?

It depends on the height of your sloop and the chosen frame design. We take this into account when measuring and recommend the optimal height for your situation.

Is a bimini top resistant to rain?

The canvas is water repellent and provides good protection in light rain. For prolonged or heavy precipitation, we recommend a full spray hood. Both can be fine side by side on the same sloop.

What is the difference between a bimini and a spray hood?

A tube canopy is a fixed, permanent canopy. A bimini is flexible and foldable. Many sloop owners have both: the tube canopy for protection when sailing, the bimini for extra shade when you are stationary or cruising slowly.

How quickly can I put the bimini on and take it off?

Our bimini tops are designed for convenience. In most cases, you fold or collapse the bimini in half a minute, without tools.

What does a custom bimini top cost for a sloop?

The price depends on the dimensions of your sloop, the choice of materials and any additional options. Feel free to request a quote for a customized indication.

How do I maintain the canvas?

Rinse the cloth regularly with clean water. Let it dry completely before folding or storing it. Do not use harsh cleaning agents. With proper maintenance, the cloth will last for years.

Bimini Top for Your Sloop? Request a quote now

Would you like to sail comfortably this summer with a bimini top on your sloop? Get in touch with Zeilmakerij De Vries Maritiem. We are happy to think with you and provide a bimini that does exactly what you want, from design to assembly.