Buyer’s Guide & Information

Best Boat Covers Reviewed

Find the best boat covers on the market. We compare the top models for different types of boat shapes and sizes that help protect your boat.

by Andrew

Buyer’s Guide & Information

Best Boat Covers Reviewed

Find the best boat covers on the market. We compare the top models for different types of boat shapes and sizes that help protect your boat.

by Andrew

by Andrew

Like with any expensive purchase, boats are not only a prized possession but also an important investment. Protecting your boat from bad weather, animals, and natural debris is critical to lengthening its life and avoiding extra repairs.

A boat cover seems like an optional purchase, but it can really keep your boat in top condition; make sure to get a good quality one using this handy guide. 

Preview

Model

Primary Material

Size

Check Price

MSC Heavy Duty 600D Marine Grade Polyester...

MSC

Heavy-duty

Polyester

14 – 24 foot long, 68 – 102 inches wide

Classic Accessories StormPro Dark Grey...

Classic Accessories StormPro

PVC polyester

12 – 24 feet long, 68 – 116 inches wide

Leader Accessories Solution Dyed Polyester...

Leader

Accessories

Polyester

14 – 24 feet long, 68 – 116 inches wide

Classic Accessories StormPro Dark Grey...

Classic Accessories StormPro

Polyester

14 – 24 feet long, 99 – 166 inches wide

Classic Accessories Stellex Blue All Seasons...

Classic Accessories Stellex

Polyester

12 – 24 feet long, 68 – 116 inches wide

Budge B-621-X6 600 Denier Hard/T-Top Boat...

Budge

B-621-X6

Polyester

16 – 26 feet long, 106 inches wide

iCOVER Trailerable Boat Cover- 12'-14'...

iCOVER

Polyester

12-23 feet long, 68 – 100 inches wide

Seamander Trailerable Boat Cover Fits V-Hull,...

Seamander Trailerable

Polyester

14 – 24 feet long, 68 – 102 inches wide

iCOVER Trailerable Pontoon Boat Cover, Heavy...

Icover

Pontoon

Polyester

17 – 28 feet long, 102 inches wide

Pyle Inflatable Boat Cover - 12.5’ to...

Pyle

Inflatable

Polyester

8.3 x 8.3 x 11.8 inches

The Importance of Using a Quality Boat Cover

Boats are a financial investment that can vastly improve your quality of life and provide hours of fun on the water. A boat cover is a simple and easy to use piece of equipment designed to protect your boat from weather damage, natural debris, and animal damage.

You can use boat covers when mooring your boat on a lift jack, putting your boat in indoor storage, and trailering your boat elsewhere.


Selecting Quality Boat Covers (Buyer’s Guide)

Boat Dimensions & Size

No-one wants the hassle of returning a too-small boat cover. Make sure that you carefully measure the length and width of your boat, remembering to take the highest points into account. Once you have these measurements, consider adding an extra inch or two to take other equipment or accessories into account if necessary.

Boat Style

What boat model do you have? It is possible to find a boat cover that is specifically designed for that model. If not, then make sure to measure your boat carefully to find that perfect fit. Please bear in mind that you may need to buy a separate cover for your motor or other accessories.

Cover Material

Typically, most boat covers are made of woven polyester or acrylic canvas. When searching for your boat cover, it is essential to ensure that the material is heavy-duty, UV and waterproof or resistant and marine-grade. If your boat cover is 600 denier or over, then it will most likely be a good fit.

Durability

The water can be a rough place to be; not only do you need to consider the waves and the wind, but storms and natural debris are also a concern. Your boat cover needs to be tough enough to survive rough storms and wild seas. Find boat covers that are urethane coated and mildew resistant for long-lasting coverage.

Buckle/Strap System

No-one wants to spend hours trying to work with confusing straps. Luckily, many modern boat covers come with a simple and easy to adjust strap systems that have quick-release buckles for a smooth and easy installation and remove process. Simply throw the cover on, adjust the straps, and click the buckles into place.

Ease of Use

If a product is unnecessarily complicated, then you will not use it. Make sure to get your money’s worth by finding a boat cover that is light enough to carry and move, simple to care for and install, and with useful features that will make your life easier. Read customer reviews of your desired product for a good idea of how easy to use the boat cover is.

Extras

Depending on your boat model, you will need a variety of different features to protect your prized boat and extend its life. Some extras that you may need include a support pole, tailoring straps, air vents, double seams, and a storage bag. Read the product description carefully and consider if these features are useful and right for your lifestyle.

Price & Warranty

It is possible to get a boat cover for anywhere between $30 and $5000; because of this, it is worth setting your own personal budget and finding one you prefer within that budget. If you like a model that is outside of your price range, you could wait and pick it up on sale.

In terms of the warranty, boat covers can be covered for one to ten years on average, so make sure to read the fine print to know what is covered and for how long.     


10 Best Boat Covers Reviewed

1. MSC Heavy-duty 600D

Our Top Pick

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Blue, Navy, Grey, Green, Black, Beige

Weight

8 Lbs.

Size

14 – 24 foot long, 68 – 102 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Quick-release buckles and integrated straps

Warranty

Two Year Limited

Our top pick for best boat cover, the  MSC Heavy-duty 600D is a great choice for marine enthusiasts. Designed to fit V-hull, tri-hull, and runabout boats, this 600 denier polyester cover is available in a variety of sizes and colors to suit your needs. Quick-release buckles and integrated adjustable straps are there to secure the woven canvas to your vessel in a secure and non-damaging manner.

Customer reviews praise the excellent quality and the packaging that you get for an affordable price. It is worth bearing in mind that this canvas is water-resistant but not completely waterproof. This model also does not come with a support pole, but MSC does recommend using one to avoid water buildup or damage over time. This double PU coating is easy to use and maintain, requiring some light spot cleans and general inspections while the two-year limited warranty has you covered for other damage. 

For those who have pale or white goods or seats on their vessel, some customers have noted that the color can transfer onto white goods, so consider wrapping those separately or getting the beige canvas. Overall, we love the quality and price of the MSC Heavy-duty 600D and recommend picking one up for yourself.

Pros
  • Six different colors & sizes
  • Storage bag included
  • Double PU coating
  • Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
  • Water-resistant, not proof
  • Can stain white parts if wet

2.Classic Accessories StormPro

Runner Up

Primary Material

PVC polyester

Colors Available

Charcoal

Weight

12.75 Lbs.

Size

12 – 24 feet long, 68 – 116 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Quick-release buckles and integrated straps

Warranty

5 Year Limited

Our runner up for best boat cover, the Classic Accessories StormPro is another excellent option for marine fans. Made of PVC polyester, this canvas boat cover has an easy to use quick-release buckles and integrated strap system and comes with a support pole and storage bag to make storing and trailering your boat a breeze.

There are a wide variety of sizes to fit your vessel that are all UV, water, and mildew resistant; an extended warranty has you covered should anything happen. An elastic hem keeps debris and rain from slipping under, and the straps are adjustable without being damaging. Built-in stiffening parts ensure that your canvas is stable and secure in the wildest weather.

While this canvas is water-resistant, it is not entirely waterproof, so please bear this in mind when setting it up. Another point of note in customer reviews is that some people think that the support pole could be more durable – consider either reinforcing it or getting another few to help prevent water pooling. Overall, we love the long warranty and variety of sizes but may suggest getting a completely waterproof canvas if rough weather is a regular part of your life.

Pros
  • Dual rear air vents
  • Support pole and bag included
  • Trailerable
  • UV Protected and mildew resistant
  • Long warranty
Cons
  • Water-resistant, not proof
  • Weak support pole

3. Leader Accessories 600D

Best Waterproof Boat Cover

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Black, grey, blue, green, tan

Weight

7.25 ounces

Size

14 – 24 feet long, 68 – 116 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Quick-release buckles with integrated straps

Warranty

Two Year Limited

The best waterproof boat cover on this list, the Leader Accessories 600D is a 600 denier polyester canvas boat cover that comes with a wide variety of colors and sizes to fit your tastes and needs and has plenty of different buckles and integrated straps to help keep it secure.

This marine-grade boat cover has double stitched seams help prevent premature fraying or tearing and an elastic cord hem to protect your undersides from unwelcome dirt or dust. Dual rear air vents keep a healthy airflow over your vessel without letting debris or animals inside your vessel while it is moored or in storage.

The Leader Accessories 600D boat cover is perfect for storing your boat indoors, mooring it on the water, or trailering it to your next adventure. Available for a reasonable and affordable price, this waterproof boat cover is a great fit for many boats of various sizes and styles. Still, you need to buy support poles separately.

Some customer reviews do note that the written instructions for use could be clearer and recommend looking at Leader Accessories tutorial videos for a clearer idea of what you need to do in order to set up your canvas.

Pros
  • Six different sizes and colors
  • Rear air vents
  • Trailering and storage
  • Great fit for most boats
  • Great value
Cons
  • Support poles not included
  • Written instructions could be clearer

4. Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty

Best Boat Cover For Outdoor Storage

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Black

Weight

N/A

Size

14 – 24 feet long, 99 – 166 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Quick-release buckles and integrated straps

Warranty

5 Year Limited

Do you typically store your boat in the great outdoors? The Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty is perfect for you. Everything you need to use and setup is included in your purchase, including a storage bag, support pole, and tailoring straps. Available in a range of sizes, the Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty boat cover is designed for roofless center console boats that are often stored outside.

The dual vents keep a healthy airflow going while the elastic hem keeps out unwanted visitors and items out of your vessel. Quick-release buckles and adjustable straps keep your canvas boat cover secure in high winds and rough weather and can protect your vessel while trailering.

It is worth noting that this canvas is water-resistant rather than waterproof, so please bear this in mind before purchase and during setup. Remember that this is not a universal boat cover and is designed specifically for center console roofless vessels only.

Overall, we do wish that this product came in a wider variety of colors but love its size range and lengthy warranty. If your vessel needs protection from the outside world, then do consider picking up the Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty boat canvas.

Pros
  • Integrated motor cover
  • Everything you need is included
  • Long warranty
  • Wide range of sizes
  • Designed for storage and drive
Cons
  • Boat with a center console without a roof only
  • Water-resistant, not waterproof

5. Classic Accessories Stellex

Best Bass Boat Cover

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Blue

Weight

N/A

Size

12 – 24 feet long, 68 – 116 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Click-close straps

Warranty

4 Year

Our pick for best bass boat cover, the Classic Accessories Stellex boat cover is great for both trailering and short to mid-length storage. This UV, mildew, and water-resistant polyester canvas is available in three different styles and a variety of sizes to fit many types of boat. Click close buckles, adjustable straps, and an elastic hem keep your boat safe indoors and outdoors.

Dual air vents keep a healthy airflow, and the support boat cover pole prevents water pools and water damage. This sturdy polyester Stellex fabric canvas does also come with a bag to keep it safe when not in use.

The Classic Accessories Stellex is only available in one color option and is not entirely waterproof, just water-resistant. Some Stellex boat cover reviews note that really heavy rains can bring some droplets through the canvas, but overall the cover is secure. 

The Stellex is great for people who like to travel in search of marine adventures and those who need to store their boats regularly indoors. Like with other models on this list, we love the durability and long warranty of this boat cover but wish that there was a wider variety of colors available.

Pros
  • Support poles and bag included
  • Three different covers for different boats
  • Dual air vents
  • Trailering and storage
Cons
  • Only one color option
  • Water-resistant, not waterproof

6. Budge B-621-X6

Best T Top Boat Cover

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Grey, blue

Weight

14.5 Lbs.

Size

16 – 26 feet long, 106 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Quick-release buckle and integrated strap system

Warranty

10 Year Limited

For t-top boat owners, the search for the perfect boat cover is over. The Budge B-621-X6 is specifically designed to protect t-top vessels both indoors and outdoors. Available in two colors and a variety of sizes and types, this particular cover has the longest warranty on our list, which lasts for 10 years.

This 600 denier UV protected waterproof boat cover is breathable and has both taped seams and sewn in straps at both the top and bottom of the canvas for completely secure and durable installation.

A quick-release buckle and integrated strap system is adjustable and able to sit along the walls of your vessel snugly. One of the best t-top boat covers on the market; this canvas provides marine-grade protection no matter when and where you use it but is best for trailering and short term storage rather than more extended storage periods. 

While we love the extra features and long term warranty of this particular model, we do hope that a wider variety of color options become available in the near future. If your t-top vessel needs a new boat cover, do not hesitate to pick up this affordable and high-quality boat cover.

Pros
  • Long warranty
  • Multiple types available
  • 100 percent waterproof
  • Marine-grade protection
Cons
  • Only two color options
  • Trailer not storage

7. iCOVER 150D

Best Budget Boat Cover

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Silver, blue, grey, beige, black

Weight

N/A

Size

12-23 feet long, 68 – 100 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Integrated buckle and adjustable strap tightening system

Warranty

12 Month

Are you looking for a boat cover on a budget? The Icover 150D is the best budget boat cover on our radar. The 150D comes in five different colors and is made of a strong woven polyester canvas that is cut extra roomy to accommodate your accessories and other items inside your vessel. Labeled as a number one bestseller on Amazon, the 150D is completely waterproof and has reinforced panels to keep it sturdy during strong weather or winds.

This boat cover is both tear and UV resistant and has dual air vents to prevent damp buildup. Double stitch seams help to prevent premature wear and tear. Adjustable tie-down straps and easy to use buckles keep the canvas close to your vessel. A storage bag is included, but unfortunately, you need to buy a support pole separately.

The wide variety of sizes are all covered by the 12-month warranty, which can be a big help in case of any accidents or issues. Overall, we think that this is a great option for adventurers on a budget that want to protect their boat without shelling out a king's ransom.

Pros
  • Extra roomy cut
  • Number one bestseller on Amazon
  • Easy clean
  • Reinforced panels
  • Waterproof
Cons
  • Support pole sold separately

8. Seamander Trailerable

Best Boat Cover For Trailering

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Beige, black, grey, green, dark grey, blue, dark blue

Weight

N/A

Size

14 – 24 feet long, 68 – 102 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Integrated straps

Warranty

Two Year Limited

For those who love to take their boat on the road as well as the water, the Seamander Trailerable is an excellent piece of equipment that protects your vessel as your travel. There is a wide range of color options and sizes to choose from, and an anti-moisture mesh bag, as well as all of the necessary straps, are included.

This good quality polyester boat cover is easy to use and maintain, requiring a simple spot clean with warm water. In terms of denier, the Seamander Trailerable is made of 600 denier and marine-grade material that is reinforced with a sewn-in elastic hem that helps keep unwanted debris out of your vessel. A two-year warranty has you covered in case of any issues while using the covers.

While we love these features, some customer reviews do note that the color can fade over time; this is not unusual in the world of boat covers; the level of fade depends on a wide variety of factors including the weather, where you store your vessel, the color, material, and more. Overall, we think that this is an excellent option for mariners on the move and love the extra features and quality of the Seamander Trailerable.

Pros
  • Many color options
  • Easy to use
  • Mesh bag and straps included
  • Good quality
  • Variety of lengths
Cons
  • Support pole not included
  • Color can fade

9. Icover Pontoon

Best Pontoon Boat Cover

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Grey

Weight

22 Lbs.

Size

17 – 28 feet long, 102 inches wide

Buckle/Strap System

Tie-down adjustable straps and quick-release buckles

Warranty

N/A

Our pick for the best pontoon boat cover, the Icover Pontoon Boat Cover is a grey polyester boat cover that comes in a range of sizes and is a decent weight without being hard to handle. Tie-down adjustable straps and quick-release buckles secure the 300 denier PU coated marine-grade canvas; this canvas has quality three in one technology that repels water and mildew.

The ICOVER Pontoon Boat Cover is cut with extra room for your accessories and other items on the boat. A heavy-duty elastic cord keeps debris and animals out of your boat, and adjustable flaps increase security and cover on the stern. This cover covers your tie-down areas and works whether you use it for trailering, mooring, or storage.

It is worth bearing in mind that this cover does not come with a support pole and that it is water repellent, not waterproof. If you are on the lookout for a new support pole, we would recommend picking up this model for this particular boat cover. As with other models on this list, we wish that this boat cover was waterproof and that it came in a wider variety of colors.

Pros
  • Extra roomy cut for accessories
  • Side straps and transom flaps
  • Double layered sewing
  • 3 in 1 tech
  • Mooring, storage, and trailerable
Cons

10. Pyle Inflatable

Best Inflatable Boat Cover

Primary Material

Polyester

Colors Available

Grey

Weight

6.64 Lbs.

Size

8.3 x 8.3 x 11.8 inches

Buckle/Strap System

Quick-release buckles and integrated straps

Warranty

N/A

Typical boats are not the only marine vessels that require protection; inflatable boats also need protection from the elements. Pyle’s Inflatable Boat Cover is our top pick for the best inflatable boat cover on the market.

This lightweight 600 denier polyester boat cover is marine-grade and mildew, UV, and weather resistant. Double-stitched seams are designed to prevent any wear and tear along the edges of the boat cover, and a travel bag is included in your purchase for when the canvas is not in use. Quick-release buckles and adjustable straps keep the boat cover close to your vessel even in harsh weather or when driving.

Unlike with other models on this list, the Pyle Inflatable Boat Cover is universal, meaning that it will be a good fit for most inflatable boat models. That being said, it is worth remembering that there is no support pole included in your purchase due to concern over damaging your inflatable boat and that this cover is designed specifically for inflatable boats.

If you have a standard vessel, consider purchasing some of the models discussed above. This boat cover is easy to clean as well as use – simply rub gentle circles into the stained area with a soft brush covered in warm water.

Pros
  • Waterproof
  • Universal inflatable boat cover design
  • Waterproof and weather-resistant
  • Double-stitched durable seams
  • Bag included
Cons
  • Inflatable boat only
  • No support pole included

How to Properly Size a Boat Cover

Before you can purchase a boat cover, you need to know what size cover you will need. To do this, you will need to measure the length and width of the beam carefully.

This means measuring from a few inches under the tip of your vessel to a few inches down the tip of the other side, making sure to account for the highest points to get the length and doing the same to the widest parts of the sides. Once this is done, we recommend adding a little more space to those measurements to accommodate for extra accessories.


Boat Care & Maintenance Tips

You want your vessel to last as long as possible; the key to a long life is regular cleaning and maintenance. At its most basic, boat care and maintenance involves regularly cleaning, lubricating, inspecting, and buffing each part of your vessel. Parts that need regular maintenance include:

  • The engine
  • The hull and topsides
  • Electrical systems
  • The plumbing and HVAC
  • Any moving parts
  • Canvas and upholstery

Inspecting these parts multiple times a month and replacing and repairing these parts is essential. Your vessel’s manual will have details regarding how to replace or maintain more specific areas of your boat.


Maintaining your boat cover

Just like the rest of your boat, your boat cover also needs regular love and care. Typically, most boat covers require a quick brush off of debris and a spot clean of warm water and a soft brush. The boat cover’s product description or manual will have further details if necessary.

Regarding boat cover repairs, the most common issues for boat covers are frayed edges and rips, both of which can be repaired by either resewing the area or gluing and sewing a new patch onto the affected area.


People Also Ask (FAQs)

What is the best denier for a boat cover?

The best denier for a boat cover depends on your needs, but we would recommend picking one with a denier between 300 and 1200.

How do I put on a boat cover?

While some boat covers need specific instructions, you most often carefully put the cover over the top of your boat, tightening the straps and clipping the buckles. Make sure that the straps are secure without damaging your vessel.

What color boat cover is best?

The best boat cover color depends on the color of your boat and your personal preferences. Most boat covers come in black, grey, green, and blue.

Who makes the best custom boat covers?

While there are a variety of custom boat cover makers both in your local area and online, we would recommend reading customer reviews and booking a free consultation to see which company is best for you.

Can I just use a tarp to cover my boat?

While it is possible to use a simple tarp, a tarp may not be as effective at repelling water, debris, and animals as a specially designed boat cover would be.

How long does a boat cover last?

The life of a boat cover depends on its material and how well it is cared for. The Cover's warranty is a good indicator, but this can be extended with regular care.

Where can I buy these boat covers?

It is possible to buy a boat cover locally and online, but we would recommend purchasing one from Amazon due to its wealth of customer reviews, great prices, and fast delivery

What are the best boat seat, boat Fenders, and boat mooring covers?

There are a variety of boat seats, boat fenders, and boat mooring covers to choose from. We would recommend picking some up from Amazon. Check out the links here to get an idea of our favorites.


Conclusion

While we love all of the entries on this list, we would recommend the MSC Heavy-duty 600 D over them all due to the customer reviews, extra features, and affordable price.

Top