The Best Boat Covers for Winter for 2023

A true sailor has to be fully prepared for the coldest season of the year. When insufficient preparations are made for the sea, the seawater will worm its way into your boat and cause problems. So, this is why the best boat cover for winter is essential for a smooth-sailing ride.

If you want you and your boat to be sailing and fishing for a very long time, make sure that you are keeping it protected, especially during the winter season. As boat owners, we can guarantee our boat’s outstanding condition and performance if we are clever enough to invest in the essentials of a boat.

Fortunately, if you are currently in need of boat covers, there are plenty of options available in the market that can help you in no time. Of course, to be sure, you need to do your homework about the most trusted brands first.

Keeping snow off your boat by investing in a proper winter boat cover system will save you time and money in the long run. This way, you can also extend the lifespan of your watercraft, so replacing your boat with a new one is less likely.

Best Boat Cover for Winter Reviews of 2023

1. StormPro Boat Cover

When you buy the StormPro Boat Cover, you are purchasing a great sailboat cover for winter as well as peace of mind. If you are looking for a heavy-duty boat cover made out of 100% high-strength polyester fabric, this product is definitely for you!

This boat cover is engineered using a very durable material, making it long-lasting. You can be guaranteed that your boat is protected from harmful UV rays and water penetration.

In the same way, the strapping system of this boat cover is excellent since you can easily adjust it. It is designed with integrated quick-release buckles and straps that allow effortless trailering and fitting. The hem is also made to be elastic to allow a tight and custom fit.

This boat cover fits boats with a length of 17 to 19 feet and 102 inches in width. What is also great about this model is that it can also fit boats that have windshields including V-hull runabouts, outboards and I/O, and others. Besides, it has a full cut to protect all the boat’s accessories, like the bow rails and running lights.

When you purchase this product, it also includes very useful accessories such as tie-down straps, a storage bag of its own, and of course, the support pole. It is used to help prevent water from melted snow to pool on to the cover, thus preserving the boat for much longer use.

2. iCover Trailerable Boat Cover

This boat cover is designed with cords that are sewn surrounding the hemline. This is meant to ensure a more elastic and heavy-duty fit. Indeed, it is crafted with an easy-to-adjust strap and interspersed buckle. Since it comes with a quick-release feature, the installation process is not complex even if you have never used this product before.

As for the material used in this product, it is durable enough to resist rugged weather conditions. So, regardless of the season, you will have peace of mind if you have this boat cover handy. It is water-resistant and designed with sturdy coating to fight off harmful ultraviolet rays.

Many consumers prefer this option because it is especially useful for the winter season. It is manufactured with solid canvas fabric coated design. Thus, you don’t need to worry about certain problems like wetting, tearing, cold cracking, and fading.

Additionally, this product can cover boats that are up to 16 to 18.5 feet long and up to 94 inches of beamwidth. It can also be ideal for V-hull fishing boat; V-hull tri-hull runabout, bass boat; Fish&Ski; and Pro-style bass boat.

For your information, this product is perfect for storage, mooring, and trailering. Knowing that this boat cover is practical to use for different purposes, isn’t it an exceptional accessory that’s worth-having for your vessel?

3. Budge Sportsman 600 Denier Boat Cover

If you are worried not just about the snow getting in your boat, but also about its paint and upholstery, this product got your back. It is made from 600 denier polyester with treatment for ultraviolet rays for maximum protection from the snow, heavy rain, and the hot sun.

Apart from that, this is reliable in terms of warding off the growth of mold, mildew, and formation of rust. This boat cover comes with excellent breathability and waterproof features. The materials used to construct it are excellent for averting buildup condensation. No wonder it is deemed as one of the top-rated choices these days.

Also known as the pack cloth, the 600 denier polyester comes at affordable prices. The “denier” is used to describe the total thickness of a fabric, which in this case, 600 denier polyester is quite a great degree of thickness. Such material is commonly used for backpacks and other bags. In this regard, the material is proven durable.

This model is also made trailerable so that you can easily tow and transport your boat to its storage area. It is secured on your boat with a strap system on the top and bottom. The heavy-duty hem gives it that almost custom fit. Plus, the model is available in two colors—gray and blue, which makes you feel comfortable when choosing one.

4. Classic Accessories Boat Cover

Classic Accessories truly live up to their tag line: “We cover your gear.” with this DryGuard heavy-duty waterproof boat cover for V-Hull Runabouts. Your boat will always be ready for many sea adventures even after the snow because this DryGuard boat cover is designed to withstand harsh weather and other damaging elements. As for maximum protection, this model is hard to beat.

The product’s DryGuard fabric is marine-grade with reinforcement panels, and waterproof lamination to make it more robust. The item is also manufactured to be durable and tear-resistant to maintain the smooth finish of your boat.

More importantly, it will provide the utmost shield against mildew growth and damaging UV rays to your watercraft. For sure, your boat will be happy and grateful for the kind of protection you provide it, especially in tough weather conditions.

Another great feature added to this boat cover is the taped seam that keeps water from entering the boat. That’s not all, this cover’s built-in stiffeners with dual rear air vents will let the inside moisture escape and reduce wind pressure.

This particular cover will be fastened on your boat by its integrated buckle and strap system which is easily fitted for trailering and storage. The straps are adjustable, and the buckles are quick-release.

What is more, this item’s elastic cord is tight enough to give it that custom-fit feel for your boat. This boat cover is designed to fit your V-Hull Runabouts that are 17 feet to 19 feet long and 102 inches in width.

5. Vortex New Beige Boat Cover

This model from Vortex is a top pick for pontoon covers for winter, not just because of the product itself but also because of its warranty as well. The warranty for boat covers is the most important indicator and a direct reflection of how long the model will last.

Vortex takes pride in their products that come with a five long year warranty. So if you are thinking about resorting to a disposable boat cover, think again, because this item will give you the best value for your money and a solid warranty for backup.

The product fits from 18 feet and an inch to 20 feet long deck area, and up to the 102-inch beam. This boat cover is heavy-duty and can be used for three purposes: cover and storage, anchoring, and trailering.

The fabric is made from 600 deniers marine-grade canvas and is coated twice with polyurethane to make it ultraviolet rays and mildew protected. Another great feature is that it is waterproof.

These winter pontoon covers are secured by using the elastic band, and the bungee type straps will securely hold it in place for storage. In addition to this, the fabric when wet will not transfer color so worry not because the seat covers will be safe from stains.

6. Budge V-Hull Fishing Boat Cover

Did you love that 600 Denier Boat Cover for Hardtops and T-tops from Budge? Well here is another great model from Budge that brings affordable protection and superior quality for all you fishermen out there.

The manufacturer, being one of the most recognized and respected names in the cover industry, won’t let you down with the B-600-X1 Denier V-Hull Fishing Boat Cover. The Sportsman 600 Denier Boat Cover is assured to give your V-Hull fishing boat that maximum protection because of the reliable fabric used for this model, the 600 Denier polyester.

This model is perfect for keeping snow, rain, wind, dust, dirt, and ultraviolet sun rays from entering your boat. Budge has truly outdone itself with its Sportsman 600 Denier Boat Cover Series for making all of it great for the wintertime and all the other harmful outdoor elements.

This product is made exactly like the one for hardtops and t-top boats. It is also breathable, waterproof, and prevents the build-up of mildew, mold, and rust. The sewn-in straps and the heavy shock cord hem will secure the cover on top of the boat. It is very durable, which makes it safe from trailering damages.

The item’s custom-like design is sized to fit V-hull fishing boats that are 24 feet to 26 feet long and 106-inch beam width. This model is available in the colors of blue and gray. This cover can give your boat a more handsome look!

7. MSC Heavy Duty Polyester Canvas

What makes MSC boat covers very special is the polyester canvas fabric crafted to make the model impeccably durable. It is so strong because the polyester yarns are woven into a crisscross formation. It is even more impressive because of its heavy-duty marine-grade characteristics. Now wouldn’t that be such an excellent choice?

While the material is already superior, you will be even more delighted by the fact that it has a double Polyurethane Coating. Polyurethane is a type of polymer that is usually applied to a material’s surface for maximum protection.

This coating is chemically engineered to protect the base material from processes that cause material degradation such as corrosion, weathering, abrasion, and many more. The chemical is also great for not being flammable.

This model is designed for storage, berthing, and travel. The fabric of this product can even withstand the stretches caused by daily usage. Some of the useful features of this boat cover are the adjustable straps, quick-release buckles, and the elastic cord sewn into the entire bottom hem.

8. AmazonBasics Boat Cover

According to the manufacturer, AmazonBasics, they offer quality and value on everyday products delivered straight to your door. Since Amazon is known for producing and manufacturing almost everything from kitchen gadgets to tech accessories – and everything in between for a very long time now, their boat cover is something to look forward to purchasing.

This Amazon’s choice for boat covers is purely made from high-quality polyester. Since polyester is a fiber that can withstand a great deal of wear and tear, it is one of the best man-made fibers commonly used for covers. It is long-lasting, less prone to fading, and very resilient.

What makes this imported model more special is it has polyvinyl chloride backing for that exceptional durability. This boat cover will keep your boat from snow and more harmful outdoor particles like dust and debris.

This trailerable boat cover will fit V-hull runabouts that are 17 to 19 feet long and 102 inches in width. So whether your boat is left outside or about to be transported to someplace else, no snow and other outdoor particles will be causing damage because of that long-lasting, secure fit.

9. PrimeShield Boat Cover

This boat cover from PrimeShield is a game-changer for its unique choice of material. The Oxford fabric is commonly made by incorporating synthetic fibers such as cotton, polyester, and rayon. This fabric is very convenient because it requires less care than most other fabrics, so cleaning and maintaining it will be a walk in the park.

Another great characteristic of the Oxford cloth is that it gets better with age so you will get your money’s worth. This 300 deniers marine grade heavy duty boat cover is made waterproof by coating it with polyurethane, so it protects your boat during the winter season. This model can also shield your unit from the harmful ultraviolet rays.

The PrimeShield boat cover is one of your best options for keeping your boat in good condition for a very long time. It can withstand water pressure up to a thousand psi which surpasses the competitors’ 800 psi record. This model can also amazingly resist cold temperatures down to -68 Fahrenheit. Can it get better than this?

This boat cover can protect units that are 16-18.5 feet long and up to 98 inches wide. It can fit V-Hull fishing boats, V-hulls, Tri-hull runabouts, bass boats, and Pro-style bass boats. The high-density double-stitched seams make it extra durable and far from being ripped or stretched.

It is also very quick to use because of its quick-release buckles and adjustable straps that are sewn onto the cover itself. To top it all off, you can fold the boat cover compactly into the storage bag that is included with your purchase for easy and convenient stashing. The possibilities with this boat cover are endless.

10. Seamander Boat Cover

For the final product, here is the boat cover from Seamander. With their tagline: “If you sell solutions, they will be back again and again”, Seamander is undeniably one of the top picks when it comes to boat covers. They know how to cater to the customers’ needs specifically, and it shows because Seamander has provided six sizes for different types of boats.

The material used for this boat cover is the 600 deniers marine grade polyester that delivers superior quality. Its capabilities to protect your boat is outstanding. Damaging weather elements like snow, rain, and wind cannot easily penetrate it; therefore, expect your boat to be in its best shape after months of storing it.

The manufacturer has innovatively designed this boat cover to be water-repellent by using 2-thread stitching. Not only that, this product is also very reliable when it comes to keeping your boat free from discoloration and stains because its anti-ultraviolet rays’ properties are greatly enhanced. This heavy-duty and trailerable boat cover can fit V-Hull, Tri-Hull, Fishing Ski, and even Pro-Style Bass Boats.

The Seamander boat cover is produced in different sizes as well as different colors to give the customers the chance to pick up the most fitting and the best-looking cover for their watercraft. This model comes with a 2-year warranty, 11 straps, a storage bag, and an elastic hem.

What to Look for When Buying a Boat Cover for Winter

While there are countless boat cover options available nowadays, this does not mean that you can just choose one that comes with appealing design, take in mind that there are lots of other important features and functions that you need to search for when buying the best and most reliable cover for your boat.

To begin with, it is crucial to have a look at these shopping guides before heading to the stores:

• Materials Used

The winter boat tarps or boat covers with marine-grade materials is what you should be looking for. When we say marine-grade, we mean something that is specifically designed to withstand harmful processes that can be damaging to your boat. These materials are chemically engineered to repel forces that are applied to it.

Since most of the boat covers sold today are made from high-quality marine grade materials, you should focus more on the strength of the fabric. A great choice would be the 300 denier polyester, or better yet, go for the 600 deniers for maximum strength.

Another useful boat cover feature to keep in mind is the coverings, whether it is made for repelling water, ultraviolet rays, or both. Try to look for covers that are coated with Polyurethane for additional protection. Lastly, look for those air vents because you wouldn’t want moisture building up.

• Sizing

Before investing in a boat cover, remember to memorize your boat’s dimensions because it is not convenient to have your boat with you whenever you go out shopping for covers. Moreover, a good fit will ensure better protection against harmful elements, easy trailering, and mooring.

First, measure the length of the centerline. Measure from bow to stern including tolerance. Next, measure the width of the beam. Measure the widest distance across the boat, straight line from side to side at the widest point on the hull.

And finally, research the descriptions of the available boat covers that may be best for your boat style. Look for the size charts and go for the one with the closest measurements. Remember, move a size up if your measurements fall on the maximum length.

• Weather Conditions

Since you are mostly preparing for the wintertime, you may need a boat cover that can repel snow and ice during that season.

Keep in mind that it is important to do your research first before investing. Boat covers are manufactured uniquely. Some are coated for extra UV protection, while others have taped seams for superior water repellency.

• Styles

Sailors and fishers must know what kind of boat they have. With this knowledge, they can easily determine the factors that need to be considered when buying accessories and covers for their watercrafts.

Knowing the style of your boat can save you lots of time shopping. Today, boat covers are manufactured to fit a particular model specifically. Do not opt for universal boat covers. Go for the tightest fit to attain the superior protection that you are looking for.

• Have a look at the Reviews

If you do not have time to buy in an actual store and prefer online shopping, then read the reviews first. Because let’s face it, advertisements are not always perfectly consistent. Therefore, always scroll below to the comment section.

The best people to help you find that perfect boat cover for you are your fellow seafarers. Their unbiased opinions will help you a great deal.

• Other Features

A very significant feature that needs consideration is the winter boat cover support system. Before hitting the buy button, think about the extra items you will need to support your boat and cover such as adjustable straps, support poles, buckles, elastic hems, and storage bags.

• Brand

Last but not least, you need to conduct research first about the most trusted brands that manufacture premium quality boat covers. We all want to be satisfied with every purchase we make; and since boat covers can be pricey investments, it is just right to ensure that we only purchase from reputable brands.

Trusted brands won’t disappoint us after all!

Other Important Factors to Consider

What is a boat cover for winter?

As a boat owner, you wouldn’t want your watercraft to be damaged over the winter season. Winterize your boat by purchasing a great cover that can repel snow. Boat covers are designed and manufactured to help you protect your investment; your boat.

How does it work?

Before the winter strikes, make sure that your boat is properly protected by using your winter boat cover. Secure your boat cover onto your watercraft by using its respective straps. Make sure that you follow the guidelines that came with the cover’s packaging for better results.

What are the different types of boat covers for winter?

Some of the most common types of winter boat covers are Shrinkwrap, Custom-fitted, Bimini boot, Plastic, and Canvas.

Shrink Wraps can protect your boat from harmful outdoor elements as well as pests, and even tiny particles because it is suction-tight. The material used is made to avoid scratching the fiberglass.

These covers are best installed by professionals; on the other hand, there are also DIY shrink wraps available. One major downside of this product is that it is disposable and meant only to last a single winter season.

If you are not too budget-conscious, you can go for the custom-fitted boat covers that are more appropriate for long travels, but if you’re mostly preparing for snow, I suggest that you look for ready-made covers.

Do not forget about your bimini top if you have one. Get a bimini boot to keep the bimini fabric protected from strong winds and other elements.

Now if you’re going for a more budget-friendly option, why not go for a plastic boat cover? When purchasing the plastic covers, make sure you get those marine-graded ones, especially those that are 600 denier polyester with polyurethane coatings. These features will keep your boat free from water and ultraviolet rays to keep it in good condition. A major disadvantage when using plastic as a material for cover is that it will never be a snugly fit.

The most recommended boat cover is made from canvas; it can get quite pricey, but it is undeniably the ideal option due to its weightier fabric construction. This option can be available in generic sizes and can also be custom-made and custom-fitted. This material is an excellent choice for boat covers because it is breathable. However, the canvas is less waterproof, and it can get vulnerable under prolonged sun exposure.

Why do you need a boat cover for winter? (Benefits)

A boat cover is a reasonable preventive measure for possible damages to the engine, pipes, and fiberglass caused by water. Water can freeze and expand inside your boat which will lead to your engine’s cracked block and a cracked manifold resulting in engine replacement.

So with a really good winter boat cover, your watercraft will be well-supported. The cover will keep snow from accumulating in the cockpit and will keep debris and other particles from clogging the scuppers and preventing the boat from flooding when the snow melts. Overall, your boat’s life is extended as long as it is well-protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most trusted winter boat cover brands?

To get your money’s worth, you must invest in the best brands for boat covers. Top manufacturers make it their mission to deliver what they advertise.

The list below consists of the few top brands in the cover industry:

• MSC
• Pyle
• Classic Accessories
• Pinty
• KapscoMoto
• Seamander

These brands are well-known for producing durable, great quality and performance, and stylish winter boat covers that are sure to satisfy their customers’ demands. Please remember that for this reason, their products might be a little more expensive compared to other competitors.

How do I cover my boat for the winter?

It is very hard for mariners to have to carry those heavy covers up a ladder then spreading it over their boats and yet get disappointed after finding out that snow has gotten inside.

A good winter cover should be able to keep the snow from damaging the boat. To do the job, you should first choose a boat storage cover for winter that will last an entire winter that will only come off when you want it off and not by the wind blowing it.

The second is to support the boat cover with a sturdy framework. Nowadays, manufacturers of boat covers include clamps in replacement of the traditional wooden frames and plastic pipes which take too much time and effort to build. The clamps and straps are convenient because wooden and plastic support frames are difficult to store.

Finally, when the boat cover is fixed on the boat, make sure that it fits snugly so that it doesn’t flap in the wind. When you let the cover flap too much, it will wear itself out.

Can I cover my boat with a tarp?

Yes. Covering a watercraft with a tarp is beneficial when you store it. Tarps used for boats can offer protection against various outdoor elements such as debris, UV rays, and other sorts of filth. You can also protect the vessel from thieves or vandals.

Besides, covering the boat with a tarp can help avoid different types of animals from making a mess in your vessel.

How to care and maintain your boat cover?

Follow these tips, and your boat will enjoy its cover for many winter seasons to come.

• To prevent water from pooling on your boat cover, use support poles and straps. Some manufacturers sell these accessories separately, so remember to grab yours for your cover. Also, avoid other objects to stand on the boat cover.
• Use heavy-duty straps to tie down your boat cover securely when trailering and mooring to avoid accidental tearing.
• To make your boat cover squeaky clean and good looking, do not forget to remove dirt regularly. Use a brush with soft bristles and mild soap to clean and remove stains. Then use lukewarm water for rinsing. Finally, let it air dry.
• Extensive outdoor exposure of boat covers may degrade its overall quality, so do not forget to store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Conclusion

Understandably, it is not easy fishing for the right size, style, and features that you want your boat cover to have. This is why in this article; we have provided you with some of the leading options from the cover industry that are out in the market today.

We believe that these top picks can meet your boat’s demands. In this post, we have already come up with a list of great options to choose from. We do hope that we have brought you useful shopping tips and tricks for winterization.

Finally, we urge you to get to know more about your boats so that you can avoid investing in the wrong products. Take into consideration the basic information, guidelines, and top choices that are all published here, because this article is solely intended to help you find the best boat cover for winter.

Dave L. Beaton

I am Dave, Marine Talk’s content creator. Boating experiences matter when planning a boat trip for your family or going by yourself. Therefore, I am here to tackle all things relevant to boating so even the inexperienced ones can start their boating safely.