Looking for winter enclosure ideas for an R29 CB

[tglen22]

I am looking for some ideas on how to best enclose an R29 CB over the winter for outdoor storage. Do you recommend shrink wrapping it completely or investing in a custom canvas set up for both the cockpit area and the command bridge?

Also, is it best to cover the solar panel during the winter as well or not?

Thanks!
tglen22

 

[Boatagain]

Both shrinkwrap and a custom canvas cover will protect the boat nicely. In your/our area it’ll run about $400 to $500 to shrinkwrap your size boat, but it’s only good for one season. A custom canvas cover will run several thousand dollars but will last for many seasons. It’s a matter of how long you’ll keep the boat and/or whether you want to spend big bucks now and wait to recoup the cost in a few years.

If you plan on keeping the batteries onboard and connected I’d suggest keeping the solar panel uncovered to keep them charged. With shrinkwrap one can either install a clear section over the panel (more expensive) or simply cut the wrap to expose the panel and carefully tape the edges of the wrap to the edges of the panel (less expensive). With custom canvas, a clear panel can be installed during it’s fabrication.

Hope this helps.

 

[wildbrian1]

The R23 has a custom cut shrink wrap cover made for Ranger for shipping. I was considering using it, but not applying the heat so that it could be re-used... it’s quite durable. Maybe Ranger uses a custom “shrink” cover for the R29 CB that you could adapt for your storage needs... good luck.

 

[knotflying]

When I protected my boat in the winter in Rhode island I used a white heavy duty tarp. The cost was about $85.00 and I would get about 3 years out of it. http://www.coversuperstore.com/30-x-40-heavy-duty-white-poly-tarp-52-oz-12x12-weave. They do come larger. I always had enough light come through for the solar panel and never had issues with the wind or snow tearing it. I made a center support from the folded mast to the bow rail and then from the rear door overhang to the stern rail. I used Bungee ties all around and covers the swim step all the way to the winch. Worked for me!

 

[tglen22]

Thanks for all the suggestions. Much appreciated! I had a canvas cockpit cover for our Sea Ray and it seemed to work well and reusable. Shrink wrap the whole boat may be the best option but it sure feels like I'm throwing away money.

 

[NorthernFocus]

When I protected my boat in the winter in Rhode island I used a white heavy duty tarp. The cost was about $85.00 and I would get about 3 years out of it. http://www.coversuperstore.com/30-x-40-heavy-duty-white-poly-tarp-52-oz-12x12-weave. They do come larger. I always had enough light come through for the solar panel and never had issues with the wind or snow tearing it. I made a center support from the folded mast to the bow rail and then from the rear door overhang to the stern rail. I used Bungee ties all around and covers the swim step all the way to the winch. Worked for me!

Ditto on our R25 except for the color of the tarp. I don't use solar charging. I used the same method successfully for several years on a C-Dory 22. Even in the extreme cold of Fairbanks the tarp held up nicely. For purposes of shedding snow I use 2x4s to set up a ridge pole all the way fore and aft.