Abstract: A swimming pool cover apparatus is described whereby the pool cover may be extended and retracted through a power source. The apparatus includes a drive shaft circumscribed by a pair of sleeves. Each of the sleeves may be selectively rotated through a double-dog clutch system connected to the drive shaft. A cover-collecting drum is connected to one of the sleeves. A pair of cord-collecting reels rotatably circumscribe the other sleeve. Controlled rotation of the two cord-collecting reels is achieved through a ratchet and spring-biased pawl system. This system also permits slippage of either of the two cord-collecting reels when the tension on either one of the reels becomes excessive.