1994 Outrage 17 Canvas

[bobk]

I just picked up a clean [1994 Boston Whaler Outrage17] boat that had been stored out of the weather and seldom used. I want to keep the boat as fresh as possible and am looking for a good cover that will not be too difficult to get on and off. I also plan to put a Bimini top on it and will need the frame and fittings for it. The boat will continue to be lightly used and not stored in the water, but will be kept outside. I live in upstate New York, and the boat will mainly be used in fresh water. Price is a consideration but I understand that quality costs. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Phil T]

Bob--the Outrage 17 I (1990-1995) is a unique model and not many providers offer products that are a perfect fit.

Carver Industries makes a decent semi-fitted cover for the Outrage 17 .
http://dealerguide.carvercovers.com/boats/display/2124

For winter, I would do the sawhorses and heavy tarp technique due to snow load.

[rzwhaler]

Check out Mills Canvas. They were the original supplier of canvas for that model and year. I own a 1994 21 Outrage. [Canvas from Mills can be] pricey, but [their work is] super quality. Their frames are the best. I then have canvas cut from their patterns

[jimh]

Canvas and frames from Wm. J. Mills & Co. are cut from patterns and you fit it to your boat when you install it. They use Glen Raven Mills SUNBRELLA fabric and stainless steel for their frames. Their workmanship is very good. If they offer pre-made canvas for your model of Boston Whaler boat, their prices can serve as a benchmark for the upper end of the market pricing.

Generally wherever there are lots of boats there is a local canvas maker. You can assess the quality of the local canvas maker by looking around at marinas in your area to see example of their work. If you see exemplary work, inquire with the local canvas maker and get his prices.

You can save money if you buy standard sized pre-made frames and canvas for a Bimini Top. As long as the width of the frame is properly selected, fitting a pre-made Bimini to your boat will not be too difficult.

Winter storage covers that are standard-size are very much cheaper than having a custom-made winter cover. The biggest worry I have about outdoor winter storage of boats is infestation of small rodents. If your boat becomes the winter home for some field mice you will regret letting them take up residence.

[jimh]

Check out Mills Canvas. ...I then have canvas cut from their patterns

How did you get Wm. J. Mills & Co. to give you their patterns? I never heard of this before. Please elaborate.

[rzwhaler]

You either have the old canvas or buy new. You can take old canvas to any canvas shop and they make a pattern out of it. I never stated I got the patterns from them. any old canvas serves as a pattern

[jimh]

RZ'--Thanks for clarifying that you were not given patterns for canvas by Wm. J. Mills & Co. I cannot imagine that any canvas maker would give away their canvas patterns to someone so that person could then have another company make something from their patterns--and particularly not Mills who have an extensive collection of patterns for Boston Whaler boats.

[RMS]

I have a 1993 Outrage 17 and purchased a Mills mooring cover for summer use. Some price savings may be realized by purchasing the Mills cover through Twin Cities.
Bob

[bobk]

Thank you all for responding. I've contacted Mills and will be ordering from them shortly.