Just purchased NS22, now based in Montreal. Looking to add a bimini only (no dodger) to get as much overhead cockpit coverage from the sun. Please send pics and suggestions based on your learnings.
Our mainsheets are affixed to the centre of the stern of the boat - no travelers, etc. Some poor Nonsuchers have ended up with biminis or dodgers that foul the mainsheets and/or get clonked by the booms.
Just make certain that you know the LOWEST of all of these measurements:
What is the height of your sail and/or aft end of your boom to the floor of your cockpit when your sail is tied up and bagged and the boat is at rest ? I do realize that this measurement can be changed, by you, by adjusting the topping lift (something that you don’t want to be constantly playing with). The height that you are looking for is the height that your boom/sail normally sit at.
2.What is the height of your sail and/or aft end of your boom to the floor of your cockpit when your sail is fully raised, NOT being supported by the topping lift but simply by the end (or the “cut”) of the sail ? This should be taken, ideally, with the boat at rest and not while sailing, in order to get the lowest boom position
This is all about making 100% sure that you design a bimini that is low enough to avoid being hit by the boom when sailing (and ideally not even contact the boom when the sail is bagged up). That said, the darn thing must be high enough to permit you to stand under it and be comfy.
Otherwise, I second Paul’s suggestion regarding Sailrite. And, not knowing good canvas makers in Montreal, I’d do my research and see if you can get a Montreal outfit to do this. Way easier than doing it via ZOOM or email with an out-of-town supplier (tho Sailrite will give you plenty of ideas).