Boat cover for 1979 170 Open Fisherman

[joecobra]

I am new to the forum and also a new owner of a 1979 170 Open Fisherman.  The boat has been in our family since new and I now have the privilege to use and care for the boat.  I am looking for a high quality semi-custom boat cover and have found several manufactures that build covers for the boat.  I am looking for a cover that is mostly waterproof, allows air to flow, and has a great fit.  Has anyone had experience with Westland, Carver, or Endura (apparently made by Carver) boat covers?  All 3 supply a cover for the boat, but I want to make sure whatever I buy lasts more than a couple of years and performs.  If you have any  recommendations and experience regarding the best covers on the market please let me know.  

Thanks!

[pete]

welcome aboard Joe!I think you are going to find many different opinions about covers.Some guys will only buy a custom cover made from sunbrella marine fabric,others say the $20 tarp from harbor freight is good enough.Your budget will determine the cover you get.the better covers will fit better,last longer and cost more.I bought mine from here   http://www.discountboatcover.com/
had it out in the Florida sun for almost a year,no problems.Make sure you cover is properly supportted so water doesnt puddle and cover anything that could poke thru.Let us know what you get.Give a local canvas shop a call to see what a custom cover would run,that should give you an idea for a staring point.Good luck and welcome!

[joecobra]

Thanks for the good advice and link to an online supplier.  I will call a local shop to check on the custom prices for comparison purposes.

[RickK]

The custom cover I have for my 170 ran $600, is sunbrella and reinforced everywhere it touches the boat, windsheild, powerpole, etc.  I've tried every type of covering mechanism and this seems to be the only one that is lasting.