This is a sensible question when you’re shopping for a Kingfisher bimini top. Our current Kingfisher biminis have a 2.8m frame, which is noticeably longer than many bimini tops fitted to small tinnies — that extra length gives broader coverage and better shade for more of the boat.
Before you order, there are a few practical things to check so the bimini will fit and stow correctly on your boat: where you want the shade, whether mounting points are clear, and how the folded frame will sit on your rails or gunnel. Use the checklist below and download the printable measuring guide if you want a step-by-step measuring sheet.
Where do I need my shade?
Decide whether you want coverage over the helm, the seating area. Positioning slightly forward, central or aft changes how the bimini top covers the boat area and affects access — note your preferred area before measuring.
Are there any obstacles or obstructions blocking the proposed mounting points?
Inspect the gunnel surface and rail line for rod holders, cleats, aerials, fuel fillers or other fittings that could block a mounting point. Mark potential mounting points and check that each is clear along the full length where a bracket would sit.
Are there any wires or lines under the gunnel that will interfere with the mounting points?
Look under the gunnel for steering cables, electrical wiring, fuel or hydraulic lines. If you find services in the proposed area, move the mounting
points or consult a qualified installer — do not drill where wiring or fuel lines run.
Where will it lay in its stowed position?
Confirm where the folded 2.8m bimini frame will sit when down. You need clear space on the rails or gunnel and at least the recommended lay-down clearance. If the frame will rest on rails, plan to pad the rails to protect the frame and cover fabric.
How wide is my boat at the planned mount site?
Measure across the boat at the exact location you plan to fit the mounting brackets. Use a tape measure across the top of the gunnel and record the width in millimetres. This width determines fit and which size bimini/top boat configuration will work.
Where should the shade area sit relative to seats and deck?
Decide whether you want the bimini central over the seats, slightly back to keep the casting deck clear, or slightly forward to aid boarding. Note this in your measurements so the bimini top covers the area you want shaded.
Do rod holders, rails, fuel fillers or aerials affect mounting?
Check whether the gunnel is a narrow extrusion or a wide extruded gunnel. Kingfisher mounting points require two brackets spaced 500mm apart in a straight line and fixed at the same height so the bimini sits level. If obstructions exist, reposition the mounts or choose alternate bracket options.
Check under the gunnels for controls and lines.
Before drilling, verify there are no steering controls, electrical bundles or hydraulic/fuel lines in the mounting area. If in doubt, access the underside or consult the boat manufacturer’s layout — safety first when locating mounting points.
Confirm lay-down clearance (stowed frame).
Measure forward and aft of each proposed mount to ensure at least 1.55m clearance from the center of the proposed mounting point so the 2.8 m frame can lay down safely. If the bimini will sit on rails when stowed, use padded rail covers to protect both the frame and the fabric
cover from chafe and wear.
Finally measurement across the boat at the mounting site.
With mount positions chosen, take a final width measurement across the gunnel at the proposed mounting height. If your boat has wide gunnels you can usually fit the mounts anywhere practical on the gunnel surface; narrow boats may require precise placement. Record width, mounting point heights and distances between mounting points for reference when checking the sizing chart or ordering accessories.
With those measurements recorded, compare your width and mounting point details against the sizing table below to confirm which Kingfisher bimini size and configuration will fit your boat.
If your measurement falls between ranges or you need different mounting options or covers, contact us for fit advice or to order the correct
bimini top. Now it’s time to get on the water.
