I started out with a bow and cockpit cover and changed for one reason. The sun beating down on the top edges of the boat, where the cover didn't protect, caused the fiberglass to go chalky and I had to have the finish restored. (Yes, I did keep it cleaned and waxed.) I had a mooring cover made (NOT one of those saggy models but a form fitting Sunbrella one with a front and aft support pole) and it has protected the upper surface well. The mooring cover has worn out and this fall I am having a new one made. But the fiberglass is NOT damaged.
As to ease of use, I find the mooring cover a bit easier because there are no snaps. A tension rope around the edge keeps it in place. It can be a little tricky getting the last corner into place but overall it isn't hard to put it on.
NO water leaks during rain.
Cost (22' boat) ~$2000
|