A protective cover on a boat is most commonly called a boat cover — though the specific name depends on what part of the boat it protects and how the boat is stored or used.
Boat covers fall into several named categories. A pontoon cover fits over the entire deck of a pontoon boat. A mooring cover protects a boat while docked or stored stationary. A trailerable cover is engineered to stay secured at highway speeds. A bimini top is a frame-supported canopy that shades the cockpit while the boat is in use. A PWC cover fits personal watercraft like jet skis. Each type has a distinct construction designed for its specific protection role.
- A trailerable boat cover is designed to remain secured during highway towing, typically with reinforced straps and an elastic hem.
- A bimini top uses a rigid aluminum frame — typically 1-inch diameter — to hold a fabric canopy above the seating area.
- Pontoon covers are sized by deck length, not overall boat length — a critical distinction for correct fit.
- PWC covers, also called jet ski covers, are sized by personal watercraft length in inches, ranging roughly 103–140 inches depending on model.
- Mooring covers and storage covers are designed for stationary use only and are not rated for trailering at speed.