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Just bought the boat, and looking for a Bimini Top. All sorts of suppliers out there, but wondering if I should get one from Boston Whaler (Great Lakes?) or go with one of the other suppliers.

I see some that fold down flat, either in the front or rear when you don’t want them up, and then some your roll/fold up and it stays upright.

I am also looking for a cover when i am trailering it, or when it is stored.

Thanks for any suggestions or ideas.

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Get a good quality top, Sunbrella fabric is Sunbrella fabric. Great lakes Sunbrella is no different than Carver's. The tops that stay upright have a rear support bar. People like that as it is easier to deploy if used a lot. It also does not take up cockpit space like one folded flat unless it is on a slide. Most tops come with the storage boot but make sure. Your biggest decision is SS or aluminum frame. Stainless is stronger and pretty but very heavy and very expensive. If only used here and there and a short season, aluminum will be fine and a few Hundred bucks.

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Price shop Great Lakes, Carver and Westland.

Even with stainless steel, Sunbrella and sliders there is a significant price range. Can't go wrong with any of them.

If you have to buy the Great Lakes Top from a dealer, it will not be price competitive.

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Biggiefl and Phil T,

Thanks for your insight. I like the idea of the slide, to store it laying down, and having slide back as far as possible. I have read though, that the track will be right in the step area. (I have both read and front handrails.

I am thinking that with the rails, the top would be mounted to them? I will look at the suggested companies, and hopefully get some instruction manuals as well.