Just completed project building a bimini frame that hard mounts to the dodger and to the stern rails. Thus, we don't have any straps in our way when going forward. And the entry space to our cockpit is greatly enlarged. If we want to remove the bimini cover we just roll fabric to the rear and secure. The dock gang thought we were building a Race Car Roll Cage for the boat. :D
Hoping to meet some Catalina 34 Association members at the Annaplois show.
Joe and Carol
All right. You must now post a picture. We all want to see.
Steve you beat me to it.
And with the pictures an article for Projects or the Mainsheet.
See you at Annapolis. Can you bring pictures? Will do as many days as the wife's knee will allow.
We had our bimini frame modified also this year, but not connected to the dodger. All it needed was a connection from the aft arch down to the aft rail on each side, and a horizontal connection between the two arches each side. We have quick-releases pins on each clamp-connector, so that the bimini can still easily be folded.
The frame is now much more sturdy, and no more straps to vibrate in the wind, or trip the unwary.
By releasing the rear supports, I can also tip the whole bimini forward a few feet, out of the way heat and flames rising from the barbeque. Much better than having to fold up the whole bimini.
We also had grab-rails added to each side of the dodger. Helps both going forward as well as during docking at the slip.
Tony