Cover for a 175 Osprey

[Taxi Driver]

Looking to buy a cover for my 175 Osprey.  West Marine has one that says it fits 17' to 19' for center console $220.  Thought that someone might have had some experience with the West covers.  Our local canvas shop quoted me a price of $650 for a custom cover made of Sunbrella material.  Had them before and they fit right and last forever.  Just trying to save a buck or two, but it's probably like everything else.  You get what you pay for.

[RickK]

Your right - I tried every kind of cover on my 170 over the 24 years I've had her - from tarps to canvas to generic covers and then finally custom with sunbrella.  Cost me $600.  Should last - extra reinforced.

[pete]

got mine from here,semms to be holing up pretty good,price is right

http://www.discountboatcover.com/Produc ... C%2D70017P

http://www.discountboatcover.com/?Click ... 7QodQk2rPA

[Taxi Driver]

Thanks for your help.

Taxi Driver

[c master]

Mine is a soft, rain-proof, light gray fabric. It's a 'generic' size but shaped for an 18' center console and also covers the engine.  I pull it down to the trailer with shock cords, but it isn't tight enough to tow.  But it does keep the boat clean/dry inside.  I have found that the generic covers need some sort of support under them aft of the console...otherwise they pool water.  I glued up a very simple "bridge" - it's essentially two Indian bows (think:  Bow and Arrow)  of pvc (1" dia.).  They are held in the 'bow' shape by cord stretched from one end to the other.  The parallel bows are joined in two places with 24" long tees/pvc.   I capped the ends and they just rest on the gunwales.

I like the fabric because it's soft enough to go right into the washing machine.

I think I paid about $100 for the cover...

[Blue Agave]

I believe a boat cover is a must.  I have a custom cover for my vessel and I could not be happier.  For the longest time I could not justify the cost and told myself that I did not need one.  I finally ponied up the cash and got one made and I am glad I did.  She is clean and dry when I am ready to go for an outing and best of all it provides protection from the sun.  No matter what your budget, a custom or universal cover is worth the investment in my opinion.