Zodiac Pro

Bennett Custom Canvas Inc., Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada

The client requested a bimini top and full enclosure for a Zodiac Pro inflatable tender he used to ferry himself and his family to their primary vessel on Toronto Island. He wanted something functional as well as funky.

Two new sets of oark lock pads were mounted to the inner tubes to act as the pivots for the two-piece roof. The forward section of the roof is removable to leave a freestanding four-piece bimini over the steering console. A window was installed in the forward section of the roof to promote visibility while standing at the helm. To allow greater accessability at the midship entry points, the legs of the frames were arched forward and aft. In fact, all of the legs of the frames and the bracing are arched for function and aesthetics. The most difficult part of this project was securing the enclosure panels to the inflatable tubes. This was accomplished with a combination of stay-put fasteners that hook to the existing rub-rail and some strategically placed mushroom caps glued to the tubes. Finally, the roof and all panels were finished with black trim to complement the colors of the boat.

The project has been turning heads in Toronto Harbor for two seasons, and four clients have requested similar projects.