Abstract: A ratcheting means for securing a cover about a boat includes a first and second straps extending in opposite directions about the perimeter of the cover and coming together at the bow of the boat, and further includes a ratcheting device having a spindle which takes up the first strap and having an arm which is attached to the second strap. Instead of tying down the cover at selected locations around the boat, the user simply places the cover over the boat with the perimeter of the cover extending over the sides of the boat and with the straps also being extended about the sides of the boat with the ratcheting device being disposed on the back side of the boat, and tightens the straps which tightens the cover to the boat by moving a lever of the ratcheting device, which moves a pawl which rotates a sprocket which rotates the spindle which takes up the first strap, effecting the tightening of the cover about the boat.