Designing a Camper Top for a 400SD

[Warren]

We are not happy with the sloped aft canvas section of the original canvas design. I would like to have aft cockpit seating with the canvas up, provide through ventilation, some privacy and sun block, have visibility for docking and most importantly have an esthetically pleasing canvas design.

It may not be possible.. as the supplied sloped canvas definitely does compliment the forward arch.

This will be a spring '08 project so there is lots of time to gather ideas. Anyone with photos of their canvas or drawings, etc. which might work??
Warren

 

[fwebster]

The aft enclosure was the first addition we made to our boat when we bought it. I'll try to attach a photo below, if it looks like something you'd be interested in, I'll email you several more. Note that all these tops are custom jobs, so it is critically important that you carefully consider all the variables before winter while you can climb all over your boat.

Oops, doesn't appear that the new software supports photos yet.....check your email if it is the same one you had in the spring.

 

[Alex D]

Ours is a custom made camper very similar to a design that can be found at many canvas shops across the country. Our marina has a shop that does the whole thing, including custom bent SS bows. This type of camper costs anywhere from$3500 to $6000 depending on location and quality of the material. Ours zips to the aft bimini and if I want I can still remove the aft vinyl and zip the stock curtain underneath the aft camper canvas roof.

 

[Warren]

Thanks so much for the photos Frank, Alex. You have both done an excellent jobs of incorporating your functional needs with pleasing designs.

I taking notes and writing feverishly!
Thanks guys!
Warren

 

[37 Dancer]

Warren....... Have you check out the Taylor Made " Fastback " enclosures ? http://www.taylormarine.com/fastback/index.html

We installed one on our 370DA a few weeks ago....and like it alot. It goes up in about 3 to 4 minutes...and when removed there are no bars left attached to the boat. Comes complete with a storage bag too.

Looks like this :

 

[Warren]

Thank you also Don. I appreciate your input and we now have a much better idea of how to proceed. Thanks to all - topic ended as far as I'm concerned.
Best wishes,
Warren