100,000+ Happy Boat Owners Reviews Reviews

Free Shipping on All Orders | Save 10% with code SAVE10

Blog Inner
Desktop BannerDesktop Banner

Boat Cover Sizing Guide: How to Measure Your Boat Correctly

MAY 20, 2024

Buying a boat cover the wrong size is a frustrating and often expensive mistake. Too small, and it won't cover the boat properly. Too large, and you've got a loose, flapping cover that's doing more harm than good.

Measuring a boat correctly takes about ten minutes and a tape measure. Here's exactly how to do it.

01. What You'll Need: A cloth tape measure that's at least 20 feet long, a helper especially for larger boats, a notepad for recording measurements, and photos of any unusual features like consoles, bow rails, or T-tops that might affect fit.
02. Overall Length: Measure from the very tip of the bow to the very end of the stern or transom. If your boat has a motor mount that extends beyond the transom, measure to the end of that as well. Include trolling motors, anchor systems, or bow riders that overhang the hull — these are part of what needs to be covered.
03. Beam (Width): Measure the widest point of the boat — typically across the cockpit or mid-hull. The beam measurement ensures the cover will drape down the sides properly without being too narrow.
04. Center Height: Measure from the gunwale (the top rail of the hull) to the highest fixed point of the boat — usually the top of the windshield, console, or Bimini top support. This tells you how much vertical clearance the cover needs.
05. Accounting for Raised Features: Bow rails, fishing rod holders, antennas, and outriggers all add height and require the cover to fit around them. Note their heights and positions. Some covers include cutouts or elastic pockets for specific features.
06. Stern and Bow Shape: Note the shape of your bow (pointed, flat, rounded) and stern (flat transom, angled, notched). These shapes affect how a cover drapes and which style fits best. Most manufacturers categorize covers by hull and boat style — matching to the right category is just as important as matching dimensions.
07. A Quick Tip: Take photos of your boat from both sides, front, and back before ordering. If anything goes wrong with the fit, you'll have documentation showing the boat's actual dimensions and features — which makes returns or exchanges much smoother.

FAQs

At Boat Covers Now, we offer a wide range of boat covers to suit different types of boats, including Pontoon Boat Covers, V Hull Boat Covers, T-Top Full Covers, Central Console Boat Covers, 16FT-18FT covers, 14x16FT-90in covers, and 22FT-24FT Pontoon covers. Each cover is designed to provide optimal protection and enhance the durability and appearance of your boat.

Choosing the right boat cover involves assessing your needs, considering where and how you'll store your boat, and thinking about your local weather conditions. It’s essential to choose the right material that matches your storage environment and climate. We also offer custom-fit options to ensure the cover fits your boat perfectly, providing features like reinforced seams and secure straps. Contact us at sales@boatcoversnow.com so we can assist you.

Our boat covers are made from high-quality materials, including cotton, linen, polyester, and rayon blends. Each material is selected for its specific advantages, such as durability, waterproofing, breathability, and UV resistance, to provide unmatched longevity and protection for your boat.

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your boat cover, regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. Store your cover in a dry, well-ventilated area when not in use, and inspect it regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Avoid sharp objects that can puncture the material and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care guidelines.

Yes, we offer custom boat covers tailored to fit your boat’s exact specifications. Whether you have a luxury yacht or a small fishing vessel, we have the expertise to craft a cover that not only fits securely but also enhances the appearance and functionality of your boat.

At Boat Covers Now, quality is at the core of what we do. Our skilled craftsmen use a blend of conventional artistry and contemporary methods to create boat covers that meet the highest standards of functionality and durability. We are also committed to environmental responsibility, using sustainable materials and ethical production practices. Our dedication to customer satisfaction ensures a seamless purchasing experience and reliable customer support.

Placing an order with Boat Covers Now is easy through our user-friendly website. Simply select the type and size of the cover you need, and proceed to checkout. We offer various shipping options to meet your needs, and our customer support team is available to assist you with any questions throughout the process. Contact us at sales@boatcoversnow.com and we’ll be happy to help!

If you encounter any issues with your boat cover, such as damage or improper fit, please contact our customer support team at sales@boatcoversnow.com immediately. We are dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction and will work with you to resolve any problems, including repairs, replacements, or adjustments to ensure the cover fits your boat perfectly. For more information, you can also visit our Returns/Refund Policy Page.

Sign up and get 10% off

Sign up below and get a 10% discount on your first purchase. Spark your inbox with some love, new products, tips, & surprise discount coupons.

Contact us

Toll Free - +1 888-214-3129

Local - +1 281-466-1871

sales@boatcoversnow.com

4000 Greenbriar Dr. Ste 200 Stafford, TX 77477

Subscribe

© 2026 Boat Covers Now. All Rights Reserved.