Bimini top pontoon boats have become a popular choice for boaters in Lee's Summit, Missouri and across the country. These versatile vessels combine the stability of a pontoon boat with the convenience and comfort of a bimini top, providing an ideal setting for leisurely cruises on the water. But how did these unique boats come to be? In this paper, we will explore the history of bimini top pontoon boats in Lee's Summit, Missouri. The origins of pontoon boats can be traced back to ancient times when people used floating platforms made from logs or inflated animal skins to navigate bodies of water. However, it wasn't until 1952 that modern-day pontoons were first introduced by Ambrose Weeres in Minnesota. Weeres' design consisted of two aluminum tubes welded together to create a stable platform with seating on top. As time passed and technology advanced, pontoons evolved into more luxurious vessels with amenities such as comfortable seating and built-in storage compartments. In addition, advancements in materials allowed manufacturers to create larger pontoons capable of supporting heavier loads without compromising stability. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, recreational boating became increasingly popular in America due to economic growth and increased leisure time among families. As demand for more luxurious boats grew, so did innovations within the industry. It was during this time that bimini tops were introduced as an option for pontoon boats. A bimini top is essentially a canvas canopy supported by metal frames that provide shade from direct sunlight while still allowing air flow through open sides. This feature quickly became popular among boaters as it provided much-needed relief from harsh sun rays during long days out on the water. In Lee's Summit specifically, one company played a significant role in revolutionizing bimini-top-pontoon-boats – PlayCraft Boats Inc. Founded in 1974 by brothers Mike and Tom Ratliff, PlayCraft Boats began as a small operation in Lee's Summit. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. In 1981, PlayCraft Boats introduced the industry's first bimini top pontoon boat – the Sun Deck. This new model featured a spacious deck with comfortable seating, storage compartments, and a retractable bimini top. It was an instant success among boaters in Lee's Summit and beyond. Over the years, PlayCraft continued to refine their design, incorporating additional features such as built-in coolers and sound systems to enhance the boating experience. Their commitment to quality and innovation earned them numerous awards within the industry. Today, PlayCraft is still headquartered in Lee's Summit where they continue to manufacture some of the most popular bimini-top-pontoon boats on the market. They have also expanded their line to include various models ranging from compact fishing pontoons to luxurious party boats. The popularity of bimini top pontoon boats has only grown since its introduction by PlayCraft Boats Inc., with many other manufacturers now offering similar models. These versatile vessels are not only perfect for leisurely cruises but also serve as excellent platforms for fishing or water sports activities like tubing or skiing. In recent years, advancements in technology have led to even more innovations within this type of boat – including electric-powered motors and solar panels that allow for eco-friendly boating experiences. In conclusion, it is clear that bimini-top-pontoon-boats have come a long way since their humble beginnings over half a century ago. From ancient floating platforms made from logs to modern-day luxury vessels equipped with all sorts of amenities – these unique boats continue to evolve alongside our ever-changing lifestyles. And thanks to companies like PlayCraft Boats Inc., there is no doubt that bimini-top-pontoon-boats will remain a popular choice among boaters in Lee's Summit and beyond for many years to come.
A pontoon boat is a popular choice for boaters who enjoy leisurely cruising on the water. With its wide, flat deck and two pontoons on either side, it offers stability and ample space for passengers to relax and enjoy the views. However, one downside of a pontoon boat is that it lacks shade or protection from the elements. This is where a bimini top comes in. A bimini top is an essential accessory for any pontoon boat owner looking to enhance their boating experience. It is essentially a canvas cover that extends over the seating area of the boat, providing shade and protection from the sun's rays. Bimini tops are designed specifically for pontoon boats and come in various sizes, shapes, colors, and materials to suit different needs. The most common material used for bimini tops is marine-grade polyester fabric with UV inhibitors. This material not only provides excellent protection against harmful UV rays but also resists mold and mildew growth caused by constant exposure to moisture. Some manufacturers also offer alternative materials like acrylic or vinyl-coated polyester which provide better durability against wear-and-tear. One of the primary benefits of installing a bimini top on your pontoon boat is protection from excessive sun exposure. Spending hours under direct sunlight can cause fatigue or even lead to heatstroke among passengers onboard. A bimini top creates a shaded area where you can take breaks from the sun's intense rays while still enjoying your time out at sea. Another advantage of having a bimini top on your pontoon boat is that it shields you from sudden rain showers or unexpected winds that may arise during your trip. The canopy provides coverage over both sides of the vessel ensuring everyone stays dry even when there's light rain splattering down outside. Apart from protecting you against weather elements, bimini tops also help protect your valuable belongings onboard such as electronic devices or upholstery furniture pieces made of fabric. The cover offers a shield against water splashes, which can damage these items and potentially disrupt your boating experience. One misconception about bimini tops is that they only provide shade during the day. However, many models come with built-in LED lights that illuminate the seating area at night, making it possible to continue enjoying your time on the boat even after dark. This feature adds to the convenience and versatility of having a bimini top on your pontoon boat. Installing a bimini top is not complicated and can be done by most boat owners themselves. Most manufacturers offer easy-to-follow instructions for installation, along with all necessary hardware included in the package. However, if you are not confident in doing it yourself, you can always hire a professional to do it for you. When choosing a bimini top for your pontoon boat, there are several factors to consider such as size and shape compatibility with your vessel's dimensions. It's also essential to look into durability and ease of use when deciding on which material would work best for your needs. Maintenance of bimini tops is relatively straightforward; regular cleaning with mild soap and water will keep them looking new for years to come. Some models may require occasional re-treating with waterproofing agents or UV protectants depending on their materials' specifications. In conclusion, adding a bimini top to your pontoon boat is an investment worth considering as it provides protection from weather elements while enhancing comfort onboard during long trips. With various sizes and designs available in today's market catering to different needs and preferences, finding one that suits both functionally and aesthetically should not be difficult.
Bimini tops have a long history in the boating industry, dating back to ancient times when they were used on sailing boats to provide shelter from the sun and rain. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that bimini tops became a popular accessory for pontoon boats. In Lee's Summit, Missouri, known as the "city of lakes," pontoon boats are a common sight on its many bodies of water. Pontoon boats are flat-bottomed vessels with two or three pontoons (cylindrical floating structures) that offer stability and ample space for passengers. They are primarily used for leisure activities such as fishing, watersports, and cruising. The use of bimini tops on pontoon boats can be traced back to the 1960s when they first started gaining popularity among boaters in Lee's Summit. At this time, most pontoon boat owners would construct makeshift coverings using canvas or tarps to shield themselves from the elements while out on the water. However, these homemade covers had their limitations – they were often bulky and difficult to set up and take down. In addition, they did not provide adequate protection against UV rays or sudden rain showers. As more people began using their pontoons for recreational purposes in Lee's Summit during this era, demand grew for more practical solutions to keep them protected while out on the lake. This led manufacturers to develop purpose-built bimini tops specifically designed for pontoon boats. By the 1970s and '80s, advancements in materials technology allowed manufacturers to create lightweight aluminum frames covered with durable marine-grade fabrics like Sunbrella® that could withstand harsh weather conditions. These new biminis were also collapsible and easy to install – making them an instant hit among Lee's Summit boaters who appreciated their convenience and functionality. Today, almost all modern-day pontoon boats come equipped with factory-installed bimini tops. They have become an essential accessory for pontoon boats in Lee's Summit, providing shade and protection from the sun, wind, and rain – making boating more enjoyable for everyone on board. In recent years, bimini tops have continued to evolve with new features such as adjustable angles for better coverage and LED lights for nighttime use. Some manufacturers even offer retractable biminis that can be easily stowed away when not in use, giving pontoon owners a sleeker look when cruising on the water. In conclusion, bimini tops have come a long way since their humble beginnings on ancient sailing boats. In Lee's Summit, Missouri, they are now an integral part of the pontoon boat experience – offering both practicality and style while out on the lake.
Lee's Summit, Missouri is a vibrant and growing city located in Jackson County, just 20 miles southeast of downtown Kansas City. With a population of over 97,000 residents as of the latest census data, Lee's Summit has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Named after its founder William B. Howard’s wife, Maria D. Lee, Lee's Summit was officially incorporated in 1868. The city has a rich history dating back to pre-Civil War times when it was known as Strother’s Settlement. Today, it is a diverse and thriving community that offers its residents an exceptional quality of life. One of the main draws to Lee's Summit is its strong sense of community and small-town charm combined with big-city amenities. The historic downtown district boasts beautiful tree-lined streets adorned with charming boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries housed in historic buildings from the late 1800s. This area also hosts many events throughout the year such as outdoor concerts and festivals that bring together locals and visitors alike. The city takes pride in providing excellent education opportunities for its residents through both public and private schools. The highly acclaimed Lee’s Summit R-7 School District serves most students within city limits while several private institutions offer alternative options for families looking for specialized education programs. In addition to educational opportunities for children, adults can also further their knowledge at local colleges such as Longview Community College or Baker University – Overland Park campus which are both conveniently located within close proximity to Lee's Summit. For those who enjoy outdoor activities and recreation, there are plenty of options available within this bustling Midwestern town including over thirty parks maintained by the Parks & Recreation department offering various sports fields/courts/complexes along with walking trails winding throughout wooded areas surrounding lakes stocked with fish for fishing enthusiasts. Residents can also take advantage of warm summers by cooling off at one of two aquatic centers featuring water slides and lazy rivers, or escape the winter chill at an ice skating rink. Golf enthusiasts can hit the links at one of three golf courses in Lee's Summit including nationally recognized Fred Arbanas Golf Course. Lee's Summit also values its cultural diversity and offers various opportunities for residents to celebrate and learn about different cultures through events such as the annual International Festival held in October. This festival highlights food, music, dance, and traditions from around the world. In addition to a strong sense of community and ample recreational opportunities, Lee's Summit is also a hub for economic growth. The city has seen tremendous development over recent years with new businesses opening their doors every year. Its strategic location near major highways makes it an attractive destination for corporations looking to establish a presence in the Midwest. Moreover, Lee’s Summit has been named among Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live” multiple times due to its affordable cost of living combined with high-quality amenities offered within city limits. The median household income is significantly higher than state average while home prices remain relatively low compared to other cities in Missouri. With all these positive attributes fueling its growth and success story, it comes as no surprise that Lee's Summit was recently ranked by Niche.com as one of the "Best Suburbs" not only within Missouri but throughout America. However, despite all this progress and prosperity there are still challenges facing this rapidly growing city. One of those challenges being traffic congestion during rush hour on main roads leading into Kansas City causing delays for commuters traveling between both cities daily. In response to this issue, plans have been put forth by local government officials which include expanding public transportation options like bus services along with developing designated bike lanes encouraging alternative modes of transportation while reducing carbon emissions contributing towards climate change effects occurring globally today. The future looks promising for Lee's Summit as it continues to grow economically while maintaining its small-town charm attracting families seeking safe neighborhoods with great school systems. It is a city that values its community, celebrates diversity and offers a high standard of living for its residents. As Lee's Summit continues to evolve and thrive, it will surely remain a desirable place to call home for generations to come.
Bimini tops are a popular addition to pontoon boats, providing shade and protection from the elements for passengers and equipment on board. But where did this unique feature come from? In this paper, we will delve into the history of bimini top pontoon boats – how they came to be and how they have evolved over time. The origins of bimini tops can be traced back to the early 1800s when sailors in hot climates began using canvas awnings as a way to provide shade on their ships. However, these were not permanent fixtures and had to be taken down when not in use. It wasn't until the mid-20th century that bimini tops became more commonly used on recreational boats. In 1952, an entrepreneur by the name of William "Bill" Hoffman patented a collapsible canvas cover for his boat's cockpit area. This was known as the "Hoffman Top" and it quickly gained popularity among boaters due to its convenience and ease of use. The top could easily be raised or lowered depending on weather conditions, making it ideal for fishing trips or leisurely cruises. Around the same time, another inventor named John Lefever created a similar product called the "Lefever Top." His design featured rigid frames covered with fabric that could also collapse when not in use. This allowed for even more versatility compared to Hoffman's invention. As pontoon boats started gaining popularity in the 1960s thanks to their stability and spaciousness, bimini tops became a sought-after accessory for owners looking to enhance their boating experience. Pontoon boat manufacturers soon caught onto this trend and started offering custom-built pontoons with factory-installed biminis as an option. One such manufacturer was Godfrey Marine who introduced one of the first modern-day pontoon boats equipped with a removable fiberglass hardtop in 1958. This innovation paved the way for the popular "pontoon party boats" we see today, complete with bimini tops providing shelter and shade. The 1970s saw a significant shift in the design of bimini tops. Instead of being attached to the boat's front railings, they were now mounted on frames that extended from the boat's rear railing. This allowed for more coverage and protection from the sun and rain. Additionally, manufacturers began using materials such as aluminum instead of wood for their frames, making them more durable and long-lasting. As technology advanced in the latter part of the 20th century, so did bimini top designs. Manufacturers started offering options like motorized retractable tops controlled by switches or buttons on board. This eliminated any manual labor needed to raise or lower the top – a welcome change for boaters looking for convenience. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards pontoon boats with larger decks and higher horsepower engines designed for water sports activities like tubing or wakeboarding. As a result, bimini tops have also evolved to accommodate these activities by being taller and wider to provide ample headroom while towing passengers behind. Today, pontoon boat manufacturers offer an array of options when it comes to bimini tops – from different sizes and shapes to various materials such as canvas or vinyl. Some even come equipped with built-in LED lighting systems perfect for evening cruises. Biminis are no longer just limited to pontoon boats; they can be found on all types of recreational vessels such as ski boats, fishing boats, cruisers, etc., catering to different needs and preferences. In conclusion, what started as a simple canvas awning has now become an integral part of modern-day pontoons – providing not only shade but also enhancing comfort while out on the water. The evolution of bimini top pontoon boats is a testament to how innovation can shape recreational boating and improve the overall boating experience. So next time you're out on a pontoon boat with a bimini top, take a moment to appreciate its rich history and how it has evolved into the practical and versatile accessory we know today.
The bimini top is a type of canopy that is used to provide shade and protection from the sun on a pontoon boat. It consists of a metal frame with fabric stretched over it, creating an overhead cover for the seating area of the boat. The history of the bimini top can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece, where sailors would use large pieces of cloth or animal hides to provide shade on their boats. However, these early forms did not have a structured frame like modern-day bimini tops. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers brought canvas awnings to America for use on their ships. These were similar in concept to bimini tops but were often used as shelter during storms rather than for shading purposes. It wasn't until the mid-20th century when recreational boating became popular that bimini tops began being mass-produced and marketed specifically for boats. In 1952, William Hirschfeld invented the first aluminum-framed collapsible canopy known as "Biminiscope." This invention revolutionized boating by providing an easily adjustable source of shade that could be collapsed when not in use. As pontoon boats rose in popularity during this time period, so did demand for bimini tops designed specifically for them. The flat deck design of pontoon boats made them ideal candidates for attaching these structures, which could double as storage covers while traveling between destinations. Over time, advancements in materials and technology have led to more durable and lightweight frames and fabrics being used in manufacturing bimini tops. They also now come with various options such as removable curtains or zippered windows for additional protection from wind or rain. Today's pontoon boat owners have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing a bimini top – from different sizes and colors to custom designs tailored to fit their specific boat model. Biminis are now considered a staple accessory for pontoon boats, providing not only shade and protection but also adding to the aesthetic appeal of the vessel. In conclusion, the bimini top has come a long way from its origins as a simple piece of cloth used for shade on ancient boats. Its evolution into a structured and customizable canopy has greatly enhanced the boating experience by allowing passengers to comfortably enjoy their time on board without being exposed to harsh sunlight or weather elements. As pontoon boat technology continues to advance, it is likely that we will see even more innovative designs and features added to these popular accessories in the future.
Located in Jackson County, Missouri, Lee's Summit is a vibrant and thriving city with a rich history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage and Kansas, who were later displaced by European colonizers. With its fertile land and proximity to major trade routes, Lee's Summit has long been a hub of commerce and settlement. Early History: The first permanent white settlers arrived in the early 1800s, drawn to the area for its abundant natural resources. One of these pioneers was Dr. Pleasant Lea, who established his homestead near present-day downtown Lee's Summit in 1833. He named it "Lee’s Summitt," after his hometown of Lee's Summit in Kentucky. The town continued to grow as more settlers arrived attracted by the fertile soil for farming and opportunities for trade along nearby rivers. In 1856, William B Howard laid out plans for a new town that would become known as Old Town or “Downtown” Lee’s Summit today. Civil War Era: As tensions between North and South escalated leading up to the Civil War, Missouri became a crucial battleground state due to its strategic location on the western border of pro-Union states like Illinois and Iowa. In August 1861, Confederate forces under General Sterling Price occupied Old Town during their campaign across Missouri. However, Union troops quickly regained control just months later in October when they burned down many buildings believed to be housing Confederate sympathizers. After this turbulent period came an era of growth fueled by agriculture production including wheat farming which became one of the primary products exported from Lee’s Summit into St Louis via railroad lines built throughout Missouri during this time. Post-Civil War Development: With peace restored following Reconstruction efforts after the war ended in 1865 - New Town (modern-day downtown) began developing around Main Street featuring commercial lots where merchants could sell goods brought from other parts of country while also offering services to farmers and growing population. This period also saw the establishment of schools, churches, and civic organizations that would shape the community into what it is today. In 1865, Lee’s Summit was officially incorporated as a city with a population of just over 500 people. 20th Century: The early 1900s brought significant changes to Lee's Summit. The railroad industry continued to play a crucial role in the city's development, with multiple lines connecting it to neighboring towns and cities. This allowed for easier transportation of goods and people, leading to an increase in commerce and tourism. In addition to agriculture, other industries such as manufacturing and banking began to thrive in Lee's Summit during this time. The city became known for its production of clothing, farm equipment, and dairy products. Lee's Summit also played an important role during World War II when the government built an ammunition plant on its outskirts in 1941. This brought thousands of new jobs to the area and significantly boosted economic growth. Modern-Day Lee's Summit: Today, Lee’s Summit continues its legacy as a thriving hub of business activity while maintaining its small-town charm. With a current population exceeding 97,000 residents according to recent estimates from the U.S Census Bureau - it has become one Missouri’s largest cities outside major metropolitan areas like Kansas City or St Louis Region where many locals commute daily work commutes often only taking around thirty minutes each way depending upon traffic conditions (which can vary greatly depending upon season events). The city boasts award-winning public schools consistently ranked among top districts statewide along with numerous private educational institutions which help make education key part any local families move here; additionally several higher learning facilities located less than hour away by car mainly University Central Mo Warrensburg MO Northwest Maryville MO William Jewell Liberty MO Avila Kansas City KS Rockhurst Downtown KC well-known Benedictine Atchison KS Columbia MU Mizzou Lincoln LU Jefferson JC along with nearby military installations like Fort Leavenworth and Whiteman Air Force Base. In addition to education, Lee’s Summit offers a diverse array of recreational activities for residents and visitors alike. With over 30 parks, including the popular Legacy Park which spans nearly 692 acres and features a lake, sports fields, trails, and playgrounds – there is no shortage of outdoor spaces for leisurely strolls or family outings. The city also hosts numerous community events throughout the year such as the Downtown Days Festival in June, Oktoberfest in October, and Christmas in the Park during the holiday season. These events not only bring people together but also showcase Lee's Summit's strong sense of community pride. Conclusion: From its humble beginnings as a small settlement on the Missouri frontier to its present-day status as a bustling suburban city - Lee's Summit has come a long way. Its rich history is evident in its beautiful architecture from different eras still standing today and can be seen through its vibrant cultural scene that celebrates both past traditions while embracing modern progress. As it continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain: Lee's Summit will always hold onto its roots while looking towards an even brighter future.
Lee's Summit, Missouri is a city located in Jackson County, just south of Kansas City. It was founded in 1865 by William B. Howard and named after his wife, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Lee. Originally known as the Town of Strother, it served as a trading post along the Santa Fe Trail. With its central location and access to waterways, it quickly became an important stop for travelers heading west. The town grew steadily over the years with the establishment of hotels, banks, stores, and other businesses. In 1872, Lee's Summit was officially incorporated as a city. The railroad arrived in 1886 which brought even more growth and development to the area. By this time, Lee's Summit had become a bustling hub for agriculture and commerce. The early 20th century saw continued growth with improvements to infrastructure such as roads and streetlights. In addition to farming and trade industries, manufacturing also became a major economic contributor to the city during this time. However, like many cities across America at that time period , Lee's Summit faced challenges during World War I and suffered from economic decline during the Great Depression in the 1930s. But despite these setbacks , Lee's Summit persevered through community efforts such as building new schools and creating jobs through public works projects like road construction. In recent decades , Lee’s Summit has experienced significant population growth due to its close proximity to Kansas City while still maintaining a small-town feel . This has led to an increase in residential areas being developed along with new businesses opening up throughout the city . Today , there are several notable landmarks that showcase Lee’s Summit’s rich history . The Historic Downtown District is home to many buildings dating back to the late 19th century that have been beautifully preserved . Another important landmark is Unity Village - headquarters for Unity Church – which was established here in 1927 . It features stunning architecture including fountains, gardens, and a 120-foot tall tower. The Lee's Summit Historical Society also plays a crucial role in preserving the city's history through educational programs, exhibits and events. The society also maintains several historic sites including the Missouri Town 1855 living history museum which showcases life in Missouri during the mid-1800s. In addition to its historical significance , Lee’s Summit is known for its strong sense of community . The city hosts numerous annual events such as "Piccadilly Gala" and "Downtown Days" that bring residents together to celebrate their heritage . Overall , Lee’s Summit has grown from a small trading post into a vibrant city with a rich history and strong community spirit . Its growth and resilience over time exemplify the American spirit of progress and determination.
Bimini top pontoon boats have a long and rich history in the city of Lee's Summit, Missouri. These versatile and practical vessels have been an integral part of the local boating community for decades, providing residents with endless hours of fun and relaxation on the water. The first pontoon boat was invented by Ambrose Weeres in 1952 in Minnesota. However, it wasn't until the late 1960s that these boats gained popularity in other parts of the country. In Lee's Summit, Missouri, pontoon boats were initially used as workboats for commercial purposes such as fishing or transportation across lakes and rivers. In the early days, barge-style pontoons were common in Lee's Summit due to their stability and ability to carry heavy loads. However, as recreational boating became more popular in the area, there was a demand for smaller and faster pontoons that could be used for leisure activities. It wasn't until around the mid-1970s that bimini tops were introduced on pontoon boats. A bimini top is a canvas cover supported by metal frames attached to either side of a boat. It provides shade from direct sunlight while still allowing air to circulate through the vessel. The introduction of bimini tops revolutionized boating on Lake Lotawana, Lake Jacomo, Blue Springs Lake and other nearby water bodies in Lee's Summit. Suddenly people could spend more time out on their pontoons without worrying about excessive sun exposure or harsh weather conditions. One pioneer company that played a significant role in bringing this innovation to Lee's Summit was Harris FloteBote™ - formerly known as Harris Manufacturing Inc., which had its headquarters located just outside town limits along Highway 50 East between Greenwood & Lone Jack Road before moving operations further east down Hwy 50 near Knob Noster MO where they remain today (2021). The company started producing high-quality aluminum pontoons with bimini tops and other features such as plush seating, built-in coolers, and even a mini bar. As pontoon boats became more popular in Lee's Summit, the demand for specialized accessories also increased. Bimini tops were now available in different colors, materials and sizes to accommodate various boat designs and customer preferences. Some of the local manufacturers include Sunbrella®, Taylor Made Products™ and Carver Industries® - all producing top-quality bimini tops that are still widely used on pontoon boats today. The popularity of pontoon boats continued to grow throughout the 1980s and 1990s in Lee's Summit. The city has several marinas that cater specifically to these vessels, offering services such as winter storage, repairs, fueling stations and rentals. In recent years there has been a surge in customized pontoon boats with unique features like water slides, grills or stereo systems. These modernized pontoons have become a regular sight on Lake Jacomo during summer weekends when families gather to enjoy their time together out on the water. Today, bimini top pontoon boats remain an essential part of boating culture in Lee's Summit. They provide residents with an affordable way to access lakeside activities while still enjoying comfort and convenience on board. As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace within the marine industry, we can only expect these versatile vessels' evolution to continue into the future. In conclusion, bimini top pontoon boats have played a significant role in shaping recreational boating history in Lee's Summit since their introduction decades ago. From humble beginnings as workboats used for practical purposes to luxurious leisure crafts adorned with modern amenities today; these vessels continue to be loved by locals who appreciate their versatility and reliability out on Missouri’s beautiful lakes. Whether you're looking for a peaceful fishing trip or an exciting day out with friends and family – there is no doubt that the bimini top pontoon boat will continue to be a staple in Lee's Summit for many years to come.
Introduction Bimini top pontoon boats have become increasingly popular among boaters in recent years. These versatile vessels offer a unique combination of comfort, stability, and functionality that makes them ideal for various recreational activities on the water. One of the most notable features of these boats is their bimini top – a canvas or fabric cover that extends over the open area of the boat to provide shade and protection from the sun. In this paper, we will discuss everything you need to know about bimini top pontoon boats – from their history and evolution to their design, uses, and benefits. History and Evolution The concept of using a canopy or cover as shelter on boats dates back centuries. Sailors in ancient civilizations used cloth or animal skins stretched over wooden frames to protect themselves from harsh weather conditions during long voyages. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that bimini tops were first introduced for pleasure craft. The name ‘bimini’ is believed to have originated from Bimini Island in the Bahamas where American soldiers stationed there during World War II would use makeshift canvas covers for shade while off-duty. Initially designed as small collapsible canopies made with aluminum frames and vinyl covers, biminis became popular among small fishing skiffs and later gained popularity among larger powerboats. It wasn’t until later when they started being used on pontoon boats – thanks to advances in technology allowing for larger structures. Design A typical bimini top consists of an aluminum frame with two horizontal poles attached to upright supports at both ends. These supports are then fixed onto brackets mounted on either side of the boat’s gunwale (upper edge). The frame also has adjustable straps connected by tensioners which allow you to tighten or loosen it according to your preference. The covering material can vary depending on personal preferences but commonly includes Sunbrella marine-grade fabric due its durability against UV rays, water, and mildew. Some biminis also come with a zippered pocket for storage when not in use. Uses The primary purpose of a bimini top on a pontoon boat is to provide shade and protection from the sun while out on the water. This can be especially important during hot summer days or extended boating trips where exposure to direct sunlight can lead to sunburns or heat exhaustion. In addition to providing shade, biminis are also handy for keeping passengers dry during sudden rain showers. They also offer privacy as they create an enclosed area at the front end of the boat – making it ideal for changing into swimwear or taking breaks from other activities. Benefits One of the main benefits of having a bimini top on your pontoon boat is its versatility. Whether you’re cruising around with friends and family, fishing, waterskiing, or simply enjoying some downtime on the lake – having a shady spot makes all these activities more enjoyable. Moreover, biminis are relatively easy to install and remove compared to other types of covers such as full boat enclosures. Their lightweight design allows for quick setup without compromising stability and safety while underway. Bimini tops also add value to your pontoon boat by protecting it against harsh weather conditions that could cause damage over time – ultimately prolonging its lifespan. Conclusion Bimini top pontoon boats have come a long way since their inception in World War II. Today they are more advanced in terms of design and materials used but still serve their primary purpose – providing shade and protection from the elements while out on the water. Their popularity continues to grow among boaters due to their versatility, ease of installation/removal, and numerous benefits including added value to your vessel. Whether you own one already or are considering purchasing one in the future – there’s no denying that a bimini top is an essential feature for any pontoon boat.