There are various types of boat covers available, each serving different purposes and coming at different price points. Custom-made covers are on the expensive side, tailored specifically for your boat. On the other hand, there are generic large covers which are more affordable and widely available online. These generic covers are best suited for protecting your boat from dust, UV damage, bird droppings, and the occasional intrusion of fish, which can cause unpleasantness like maggots and worms.
However, when it comes to rainy weather, these covers can pose some challenges. If they’re not properly secured and don’t have adequate drainage, rainwater can collect on them, making your boat unnecessarily heavy and requiring extra effort to remove the water. In Hong Kong, boats are typically covered with Sunbrella fabric, known for its durability and resistance to tearing. In contrast, the generic covers found online are prone to tearing and may not be stitched perfectly, leading to water accumulation during rain showers. The best covers are custom-made by a few select companies in Hong Kong, designed to allow access to the boat and easily tie down even when it’s moored.
During typhoons, however, having a strong, custom-made cover is crucial. A loose cover can flap around dangerously, potentially ripping apart or causing a parachute effect that puts undue stress on the boat’s cleats and mooring lines. The flapping cover can also scratch the boat’s hull during strong winds. Therefore, it’s essential to secure the boat cover tightly and ensure it has a slanted angle to prevent rainwater buildup before every storm.