COVER FOR PONTOON BOAT

Abstract

A cover assembly for a watercraft includes a cover body having a front, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A fastening system includes a tension member and a tightening mechanism. The tightening mechanism is operable to transform the cover body between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration. In the tightened configuration, the cover body includes at least one contoured area extending out of a plane of a surrounding portion of the cover body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application Nos. 63/309,294, filed Feb. 11, 2022, and 63/408,346 filed Sep. 20, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a cover for a boat, and more particularly, to a cover for use with a pontoon boat.

It is well known to provide a boat with a cover to prevent water and other debris from collecting inside the boat when the boat is not in use. In many instances, boats utilize covers designed to be affixed to the boat via a plurality of snaps or other affixing mechanisms. The snap members are spaced about the entire perimeter of the cover to effect affixation thereof. For example, pontoon boats typically include a plurality of snap members affixed to the outboard side of the rails forming the perimeter fencing of the pontoon boat. Covers of this type are relatively difficult to install about the boat.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, a cover assembly for a watercraft includes a cover body having a front, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A fastening system includes a tension member and a tightening mechanism. The tightening mechanism is operable to transform the cover body between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration. In the tightened configuration, the cover body includes at least one contoured area extending out of a plane of a surrounding portion of the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area defines a low point of the cover when in the tightened configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area has a generally concave curvature.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area is formed near the front of the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area is formed near the side of the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area has a longitudinal axis, and the tension member is connected to a fixture of the water craft, the fixture being generally aligned with the longitudinal axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area has a longitudinal axis, and when the cover is in the tightened configuration, the tightening mechanism applies a tension to the cover body, where at the contoured area, the tension extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments substantially all of the tension acting on the contoured area extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

According to an embodiment, a cover assembly for a watercraft includes a cover body having a front, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A fastening system includes a tension member and a tightening mechanism. The tightening mechanism is operable to transform the cover body between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration. In the tightened configuration, the tightening mechanism applies a tension to the cover body and the cover body includes a contoured area having a longitudinal axis and substantially all of the tension acting on the cover body at the at least one contoured area extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area defines a low point of the cover when in the tightened configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area has a generally concave curvature.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area is formed near the front of the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area is formed near the side of the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area has a longitudinal axis, and the tension member is connected to a fixture of the water craft, the fixture being generally aligned with the longitudinal axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments when in the tightened configuration, at least one of the lateral sides has a non-uniform configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the non-uniform configuration further comprises a first linear portion extending from the front of the cover body and a second curved portion extending from the first linear portion to the aft end of the cover body.

According to an embodiment, a watercraft includes a deck, a railing system extending from the deck, and a cover including a cover body connectable to the railing. The cover is transformable between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration. In the tightened configuration, the cover body has a contoured area extending out of a plane of a surrounding portion of the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured area has a first edge, a second, opposite edge, and a center positioned between the first edge and the second edge, wherein the center forms a low point of the cover.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments when the cover is in the tightened configuration, the first edge and the second, opposite edge are arranged near an upper surface of the railing system, and the center is arranged near an upper surface of the deck.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the railing system includes at least one opening, and the contoured area is positioned within the opening.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a movable structure, the movable structure being arranged at an exterior of the cover body when the cover is in the tightened configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a movable structure, the movable structure being positioned underneath the cover body when the cover is in the tightened configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the watercraft is a pontoon boat.

According to an embodiment, a cover for a watercraft includes a cover body having a front end, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. The cover body is transformable between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration. In the tightened configuration, the cover body includes at least one contoured area extending out of a plane of a surrounding portion of the cover body. A flap is connected to the cover body in axial alignment with the at least one contoured area and is transformable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. In the extended configuration, the flap extends beyond an edge of the cover body at the at least one contoured area.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the extended configuration, the flap and the at least one contoured area define a flow path to drain a fluid collected on the cover body over the watercraft.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a width of the flap is greater than or equal to a width of the at least one contoured area.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the flap has lateral sides and the lateral sides extend upwardly.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the flap has lateral sides and a thickness of the lateral sides is greater than the thickness at a center of the flap.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising at least one fastener for retaining the flap in the extended configuration.

According to an embodiment, a cover for a watercraft includes a cover body having a front end, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. An air dam is connected to the front end of the cover body to block a flow of air underneath the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a first end of the air dam is connected to the cover body at a position offset from a deck of the watercraft.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first end of the air dam is connected to the cover body via a plurality of fasteners.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a second end of the air dam is configured to wrap about a front portion of the deck.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a second end of the air dam is connectable to a fixture of the watercraft.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the air dam is connectable to the watercraft at an angle between 20 degrees and 80 degrees.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the angle of the air dam is between 35 degrees and 70 degrees.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments, the air dam is integrally formed with the cover body.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the air dam is permanently connected to the cover body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

FIG. 1A is side perspective view of an example of a pontoon boat according to an embodiment;

FIG. 1B is a top view of a portion of the pontoon boat of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a boat having a cover installed and tightened about the boat according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the boat of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the boat of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a boat having a cover installed and tightened about the boat with an annotated to indicate a flow according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a front view of a boat including a support pole according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a boat having a cover installed and tightened about the boat taken along the longitudinal axis of the contoured area according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of a boat having a cover at least partially supported by a support pole according to an embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a boat having a cover installed and tightened about the boat according to an embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a boat having a cover installed and tightened about the boat according to another embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a portion of a boat having the cover of FIG. 10 installed and tightened about the boat according to another embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a portion of a boat having a the cover of FIG. 10 installed and tightened about the boat according to another embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a boat having a the cover including an extendable flap according to an embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a fastener for mounting the flap of FIG. 13 in an extended configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a front view of a boat including a cover having an air dam according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 16 is a side view of a portion of the boat of FIG. 15 according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

With reference now to FIGS. 1a and 1b, an example of a vehicle or watercraft, such as a boat and more specifically a pontoon boat, is illustrated. As shown, the boat 10 includes at least one elongated pontoon. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the boat 10 includes a pair of pontoons 20a, 20b (FIG. 1A) arranged substantially parallel to one another. Although a boat 10 having two pontoons 20a, 20b is illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that a boat 10 having any number of pontoons, such as three pontoons, or four pontoons for example, is also within the scope of the disclosure. The pontoons are secured to a bottom surface 23 of a deck 22. The pontoons 20a, 20b in combination with the deck 22 may form the hull of the boat 10. The deck 22 has a bow or forward portion 24, a stern or aft portion 26, and two opposite lateral sides 28, 30. The first pontoon 20a and the second pontoon may be positioned adjacent to the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30, respectively. A longitudinal axis L of the boat 10 extends through a center of the bow 24 and a center of the stern 26. The boat 10 illustrated and described herein is in tended as an example only, and it should be understood that other type of boats, such as hybrid boats having a deck of a pontoon and a hull of a standard boat for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the boat 10 may include one or more propulsion systems for moving the boat through water. In some embodiments, the one or more propulsion systems may include at least one of an outboard motor, an inboard motor, a jet powered motor, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more propulsion systems may include propellers and/or impellers.

As shown, a railing system 32 including a plurality of fences or fence portions 33 may be mounted to and extend vertically upward from a top surface 34 of the deck 22. The railing system 32 extends about at least a portion of the deck 22, and in some embodiments, about an entire periphery of the deck 22. In an embodiment, the railing system 32 has one or more openings 36 (FIG. 1B) formed therein. Furthermore, the railing system 32 may include a door 38 (FIG. 1a) at one or more of the openings 36. Such a door 38 may be movable between a closed position, in which the opening 36 is sealed, and an open position, in which the opening 36 is exposed.

In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the boat 10 additionally includes a movable structure 40, such as a bimini, canopy, or marine top for example, mounted to the railing system 32 and/or to the deck 22. As shown, the movable structure 40 includes a movable frame 42 comprised of a number of structural members that support a piece of material 44. The frame 42 is movable between an extended position in which the movable structure 40 provides shade or shelter from the elements over at least a portion of the deck 22, and a collapsed position, in which the movable structure 40 is stowed. It should be understood that the boat 10 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that a watercraft 10 having any suitable configuration, including a watercraft that does not include a movable structure 40 for example, is also within the scope of the disclosure.

A cover is typically installed over a portion of a boat 10 to prevent water and other debris from collecting inside the boat 10 when the boat is not in use, such as when the boat 10 is moored for example. With further reference now to FIGS. 2-9, an example of a cover 50 for a boat, such as pontoon boat 10, is illustrated according to an embodiment. As shown, the cover 50 includes a cover body 52 formed from a fabric, such as canvas or nylon for example, or another suitable weatherproof material. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cover body 52 is sized to protect the playpen 35, which is the area of the deck 22 positioned within the fences 33 of the railing system 32. For example, when installed about the boat 10, the cover body 52 extends between each of the sides of the railing system 32. A front end 54 of the cover body 52 may be configured to overlap with or couple to a portion of the railing system 32 located near the bow 24, an aft end 56 of the cover body 52 may be configured to overlap with or couple to a portion of the railing system 32 arranged near the stern 26, and the lateral sides 58, 60 of the cover body 52 may be configured to connect to or overlap with a portion of the railing system 32 positioned near the lateral sides 28, 30 of the deck 22.

The cover 50 may be designed to protect the movable structure 40 when the movable structure 40 is in the stowed position. As shown in FIG. 9, in such embodiments, the cover body 52 substantially overlaps the movable structure 40, such that the movable structure 40 is located underneath, and therefore within the area of the boat 10 protected by the cover 50. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the cover body 52 may be designed such that the connection between the movable structure 40 and a portion of the boat 10, such as the railing system 32 for example, is arranged at an exterior of the cover 50. In such embodiments, when the cover 50 is affixed to the boat 10, the movable structure 40 is generally in a stowed configuration and is disposed outside of the area protected by the cover 50. To achieve such positioning of the movable structure 40, the cover body 52 may include one or more openings through which the movable structure 40 of the boat 10 may extend, or alternatively, the cover body 52 may be contoured so as not to overlap the interface between the movable structure 40 and a portion of the boat 10 as shown.

The cover 50 additionally includes a fastening system 62 configured not only to attach the cover to the boat 10, but also to tighten the cover 50 about a portion of the boat 10, thereby creating tension in the cover body 52. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cover body 52 is configured to tighten about at least a portion of the railing system 32. For example, the aft end 56 of the cover body 52 may wrap around and tighten about a rear of the railing system 32 and/or the lateral sides 58, 60 of the cover body 52 may wrap around and tighten about the sides of the railing system 32.

The fastening system 62 includes at least one tension member 64 that extends about a hem of the cover 50. The at least one tension member 64 may be one or more straps of webbing as shown, or may be formed from another suitable material, such as a rope or cable for example. In an embodiment, the hem of the cover 50 includes one or more pockets (not shown) formed at one or more sides of the cover body 52 and the at least one tension member 64 is threaded through at least some or all of these pockets. In the non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 3-9, the at least one tension member 64 is a single and continuous tension member that extends about an entire periphery of the hem of the cover 50; however, embodiments where the tension member 64 is not continuous, such as where the tension member 64 includes a plurality of connected or separate tension members, or embodiments where the tension member extends about only a portion of the hem of the cover 50 are also contemplated herein.

For example, with reference to FIGS. 10-12, the fastening system 62 may include a plurality of tension members. As shown, a first tension member 64a extends through the one or more pockets arranged at the lateral sides 58, 60 of the cover body 52, at the aft end 56 of the cover body 52, and in some embodiments through a portion of the pocket arranged at the front end 54 of the cover 50. A second tension member 64b is extendable through the remainder of one or more pockets arranged at the front end 54 of the cover body 52 and is configured to couple to a portion of the first tension member 64a. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a portion of the second tension member 64b, such as at or near an end 65 thereof for example, is connectable to an intermediate portion 67 of the first tension member 64a, such as at a first location and a second location spaced a few feet from the first and second ends 69 of the first tension member 64a, respectively. In an embodiment, a connector 71 is operable to selectively couple the ends 65 of the second tension member 64b to the intermediate portions 67 of the first tension member 64a. Although the connector 71 illustrated in the FIGS. is a buckle assembly, it should be appreciated that any suitable connector is within the scope of the disclosure. It should be understood that in embodiments including a connected first and second tension member 64a, 64b as described herein, the tension members cooperate to provide a continuous tension member wrapped about the entire periphery of the cover 50 and playpen 35.

A force may be applied to the at least one tension member 64 to selectively tighten the at least one tension member, and therefore restrict movement of the cover 50 relative to the boat 10. In an embodiment, one or more tightening mechanisms 66, such as a ratchet for example, are operably coupled to the at least one tension member 64. However, it should be understood that other suitable tightening mechanisms, such as a winch, gearing, or pulley for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure. The tightening mechanism 66 may be accessible via a pocket, an access panel, or a zippered slit.

Operation of the tightening mechanism 66 applies a tension to the tension member 64, thereby pulling the cover body 52 taut about a portion of the boat 10. In this way, a continuous perimeter strap system is provided that tensions the cover 50 about the boat 10. This tension is used to transform the cover body 52 from a loose configuration, (not shown), to a tightened configuration, as shown in FIG. 2-4. In an embodiment, the at least one tension member 64 is connected to one or more fixtures 68 of the boat 10 to further secure the cover 50 to the boat 10. When tension is applied to the cover body 52 via the tension member 64, a large amount of tension will be transferred to the at least one fixture 68 and/or to the railing system 32. Examples of a fixture 68 include but are not limited to a cleat, anchor, eye hook, or other suitable device. Further, in embodiments including a coupled first and second tension member 64a, 64b, as described above, the two free ends 69 of the first tension member 64a may also be coupled to a fixture of the boat. For example, the ends 69 of the first tension member 64a may be affixed to an eye hook 73 arranged at or adjacent to the bow of the boat 10, such as underneath the deck 22 for example.

When the cover 50 is installed and tightened, the cover body 52 has a minimum angle extending in any direction to facilitate drainage of fluid from the upper surface of the cover, towards an edge of the boat 10. The minimum angle may depend on several parameters, including but not limited to the overall dimensions of the cover, the length of the cover extending from a high point to an edge thereof, and the tension in the cover. In an embodiment, the minimum angle of any portion of the cover body 52 is about 5 degrees, and in some embodiments, about 8 degrees.

As best shown in FIG. 2, the cover body 52 may be configured such that when the cover 50 is installed and tightened via the tightening mechanism 66, the cover 50 has one or more contoured areas 70 formed therein. The at least one contoured area 70 is configured to drain water from the upper surface of the cover 50. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the contoured area 70 includes a generally concave curvature forming a recess or valley. When the cover 50 is installed and tightened down, the contoured area 70 formed in the cover body 52 extends out of the plane of the surrounding portions of the cover body 52.

As shown, a first edge and a second, opposite edge 72, 74 of the contoured area 70 may extend from a position vertically offset from the deck 22, such as adjacent to an upper surface of the railing system 32 for example. A center of the contoured area 70 may be located generally adjacent to a top surface of the deck 22. The center of the contoured area may define a low point of the cover body 52 relative to the deck 22. Such a contoured area 70 formed in the cover body 52 may be located adjacent to both sides of a fence 33 of the railing system 32 facing toward and away from the playpen 35. Said in another way, the contoured area 70 may cross the vertical plane of the adjacent fence 33 of the railing system 32. In an embodiment, a contoured area 70 of the cover 50 is aligned with and extends through an opening 36 in the fence 33. Accordingly, in embodiments where a door 38 is associated with the opening 36, the door 38 is in an open configuration when the cover 50 is installed about the boat 10.

The cover 50 may include one or more contoured areas 70 based on the configuration of the boat 10. In embodiments where the cover 50 includes a plurality of contoured areas 70, the configuration (size, depth, etc. . . . ) of each contoured area 70 may be the same, or alternatively, may vary. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a contoured area 70 is formed generally centrally at a portion of the cover body 52 near the bow 24. However, embodiments where a contoured area 70 is arranged at another location of the cover body 52, such as near a lateral side 58, 60 and/or the aft end 56 thereof for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

To facilitate the flow of liquid, such as water on the top of the cover 50 towards the contoured area 70, the tension applied to the cover 50 at the contoured area 70 extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the contoured area 70. To achieve this tension within the contoured area 70, the tension member 64 may be connected to a fixture 68 that is generally aligned with a center or longitudinal axis of the contoured area 70. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the tension member 64 is connected to a fixture 68 arranged at a front surface of the deck 22; however embodiments where the fixture 68 is arranged at the top surface 34 of the deck 22, or alternatively, at the bottom surface 23 of the deck 22 are also contemplated herein. Further, to maintain the recessed shape of the contoured area 70, tension applied to the cover body 52 at the contoured area 70 in a direction perpendicular the longitudinal axis of the contoured area 70 is minimized. In an embodiment, the tension acting perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the contoured area is zero or substantially zero.

However, it is desirable to maintain tension in the portion of the cover body 52 located adjacent to the contoured area 70, such as the portion of the cover 50 extending between the sides 58, 60 of the cover body 52 and the edges 72, 74 of the contoured area 70 for example. To achieve this tension, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the tension member 64 is further connected to a plurality of fixtures 68 arranged at the deck 22 arranged near the corners of the railing system 32 between the front and sides thereof. In addition, the tension may be applied to the remainder of the cover body 52 by connecting the tension member 64 to one or more additional fixtures 68, such as near the bow 24 for example. However, embodiments where the tension member 64 is only connected to one or more fixtures located near the contoured area 70 are also contemplated herein.

With reference now to FIGS. 6-9, one or more support poles 80 may be removably connected to the deck 22, underneath the cover 50, to support the cover body 52, and prevent water from pooling on the upper surface of the cover body 52. In an embodiment, a support pole 80 is receivable by a connector 82 arranged at a location about the deck 22 typically configured to receive a table. Accordingly, the support pole 80 and the table (not shown) may be interchangeable relative to such a connector 82. Although the connector is illustrated in FIG. 6 as being generally aligned with a captain's chair, in other embodiment, the connector may be arranged at another location, such as fore or aft thereof and/or shifted laterally. When the support pole 80 is installed beneath the cover body 52, the support pole 80 may define a high point or peak of the cover body 52 relative to the deck 22. Such a peak may facilitate the flow of water from the top of the cover body 52 towards one or more sides thereof and/or towards the contoured area 70. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the cover 50 can be suitably supported to drain water therefrom without inclusion of such a support pole 80 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

Regardless of whether or not one or more support poles are positioned underneath the cover 50, when the cover 50 is tightened about the boat 10 via tension applied to the cover body 52 by the tension member 64, one or more sides of the cover body 52 may have a non-uniform contour. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, best shown in FIG. 9, the sides 58, 60 of the cover body 52, that overlap a portion of the sides of the railing system 32, have a first generally linear portion 90 and a second, curved or arch-like portion 92. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the generally linear portion 90 extends from the front end 54 of the cover body 52 to a generally central location, such as to a portion generally aligned with the interface between the movable structure 40 and the boat 10, and the curved portion 92 extends from an end of the linear portion 90 to the aft end 56 of the cover body 52. The generally linear portion 90 axially overlaps with a contoured area 70. By limiting the curvature and therefore the tension applied to the cover body 52 adjacent to the linear portion 90, the lateral tension acting on the contoured area 70 is limited, thereby allowing the contoured area 70 to achieve the desired drop towards the deck 22.

With reference now to FIG. 13, in an embodiment, the cover 50 further includes a flap 100 located in axial alignment with a contoured area 70 of the cover body 52. The flap 100 may be permanently or removably affixed to the cover body 52. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the flap 100 is arranged near the front end 54 of the cover body 52. However, embodiments of the cover alternatively or additionally including a flap 100 arranged at another location are also within the scope of the disclosure. The flap 100 is transformable between a retracted or folded configuration (not shown) in which the flap 100 is tucked under the remainder of the cover body 52 and an extended configuration in which the flap 100 protrudes beyond a respective edge of the cover body 52. The flap 100 may be retained in the extended configuration via any suitable means. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, Velcro® or an other hook and loop fastener 104 is used to couple the flap 100 to a corresponding piece of fabric arranged at the underside of the deck 22.

In the extended configuration, the flap 100 extends from the cover body 52 to the edge of the deck 22, and in some embodiments, wraps about the edge of the deck 22. When in the extended configuration, as shown in the FIG., the width of the flap 100 may be equal to or greater than the width of the adjacent end of the contoured area 70. Further, the lateral sides 106 of the flap 100 may extend upwardly and/or may have an increased thickness to contain any fluids on the surface of the flap 100.

By aligning the flap 100 with a contoured area 70, any water or other liquids that drain from the cover 50 via the contoured area 70 are configured to flow from the cover body 52 onto the upper surface 102 of the flap 100, rather than onto the deck 22. Because the flap 100 extends all the way to the edge of the deck 22 and defines a flow path for the fluid thereon, the liquid collected on the cover 50 is configured to drain overboard, beyond the edge of the deck 22. Accordingly, inclusion of the flap 100 prevents the water and other liquids draining from the contoured area 70 from falling directly onto the deck 22 and travelling towards a center of the boat 10.

With reference now to FIGS. 15 and 16, in an embodiment, the cover 50 may include an air dam 110, such as suitable for use when towing the boat 10. A first end 112 of the air dam 110 is positionable directly adjacent to the cover body 52 and a second, opposite end 114 of the air dam 110 is arranged at or adjacent to the front portion 24 of the deck 22. The axial length of the body of the air dam 110 (extending parallel to the axis extending between the bow 24 and stern 26 of the boat 10) may be substantially uniform over its width, or alternatively, may vary. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the air dam 110, such as the second end 114 thereof for example, includes a plurality of cutouts 116 intended to avoid interference with a component of a trailer, a component of the boat 10, or both. As a result, only a portion of the air dam 110 wraps about the front portion 24 of the deck 22. However, embodiments where all or none of the air dam 110 wraps about the front portion 24 of the deck 22 are also contemplated herein.

In an embodiment, the first end of the air dam is integrally formed with the cover body 52 (same piece of material) or is permanently connected to the cover body 52. Such a permanent connection may be formed via stitching, adhesive or another suitable means. In other embodiments, the air dam 110 is removably connectable to the cover body 52 at a position vertically offset from the deck 22 via one or more fasteners 118. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, multiple fasteners 118 are generally equidistantly spaced over the width of the air dam 110 and the front end 54 of the cover body 52. Although buckles 118 are shown as the interface used to couple the air dam to the cover body 52, it should be understood that any suitable fastener is within the scope of the disclosure. The second opposite end 114 of the air dam 110 may be connectable to one or more fixtures arranged adjacent to the front portion 24 of the deck 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second end of the air dam is connectable to the eye hooks 73 arranged at the underside of the deck 22 at the bow 24.

As best shown in FIG. 16, when installed, the air dam 110 has a generally angled configuration relative to the watercraft 10, such as the upper surface of the deck 22 for example. The air dam 110 may be arranged at an angle between about 20 degrees and about 80 degrees when installed, and in some embodiments may be arranged at an angle between about 35 degrees and about 70 degrees for example. As the boat 10 moves in a direction indicated by arrow T, an airflow A flows in the opposite direction over the cover 50. By positioning the air dam in overlapping arrangement with the front end 54 of the cover body 52, the airflow A is configured to flow over the upper surface of the air dam 110 to a central portion of the cover body 52, and then over the remainder of the cover body 52. Because the first end 112 of the air dam 110 is not sealed to the cover body 52 over its entire length, the flow of air passing over the exterior surface of the air dam 110, draws air from underneath the air dam and the cover body 52 into the air flow, where it is exhausted over the exterior of the cover body 52. This suction of the air out from underneath the cover 50 and the air dam 110 provides for better and quieter trailering operation.

A cover 50 for a boat, such as a pontoon boat 10, as illustrated and described herein provides one or more contoured areas that allow water or other matter to drain from the upper surface of the cover body. Although the cover 50 is illustrated and described herein as being suitable for use when the boat 10 is moored, it should be understood that embodiments where the cover is also suitable for use when the boat 10 is being trailered.

The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application. For example, “about” can include a range of ±8% or 5%, or 2% of a given value.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope hereof.

Claims

1. A cover for a watercraft comprising:

a cover body having a front, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side; and

a fastening system including a tension member and a tightening mechanism, the tightening mechanism being operable to transform the cover body between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration, wherein in the tightened configuration, the cover body includes at least one contoured area extending out of a plane of a surrounding portion of the cover body.

2. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one contoured area defines a low point of the cover when in the tightened configuration.

3. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one contoured area has a generally concave curvature.

4. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one contoured area is formed near the front of the cover body.

5. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one contoured area is formed near the side of the cover body.

6. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one contoured area has a longitudinal axis, and the tension member is connected to a fixture of the watercraft, the fixture being generally aligned with the longitudinal axis.

7. The cover of claim 1, wherein the at least one contoured area has a longitudinal axis, and when the cover is in the tightened configuration, the tightening mechanism applies a tension to the cover body, where at the at least one contoured area, the tension extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

8. The cover of claim 7, wherein substantially all of the tension acting on the contoured area extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

9. A cover for a watercraft comprising:

a cover body having a front, an aft end, a first lateral side and a second lateral side; and

a fastening system including a tension member and a tightening mechanism, the tightening mechanism being operable to transform the cover body between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration;

wherein in the tightened configuration, the tightening mechanism applies a tension to the cover body; and

wherein in the tightened configuration, the cover body includes a contoured area having a longitudinal axis and substantially all of the tension acting on the cover body at the contoured area extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis.

10. The cover of claim 9, wherein the contoured area defines a low point of the cover when in the tightened configuration.

11. The cover of claim 9, wherein the contoured area has a generally concave curvature.

12. The cover of claim 9, wherein the contoured area is formed near the front of the cover body.

13. The cover of claim 9, wherein the contoured area is formed near the side of the cover body.

14. The cover of claim 9, wherein the contoured area has a longitudinal axis, and the tension member is connected to a fixture of the watercraft, the fixture being generally aligned with the longitudinal axis.

15. The cover of claim 9, wherein when in the tightened configuration, at least one of the first lateral side and the second lateral side has a non-uniform configuration.

16. The cover of claim 15, wherein the non-uniform configuration further comprises a first linear portion extending from the front of the cover body and a second curved portion extending from the first linear portion to the aft end of the cover body.

17. A watercraft comprising:

a deck;

a railing system extending from the deck;

a cover including a cover body connectable to the railing, the cover being transformable between a loose configuration and a tightened configuration, wherein in the tightened configuration, the cover body has a contoured area extending out of a plane of a surrounding portion of the cover body.

18. The watercraft of claim 17, wherein the contoured area has a first edge, a second, opposite edge, and a center positioned between the first edge and the second edge, wherein the center forms a low point of the cover.

19. The watercraft of claim 18, wherein when the cover is in the tightened configuration, the first edge and the second, opposite edge are arranged near an upper surface of the railing system, and the center is arranged near an upper surface of the deck.

20. The watercraft of claim 17, wherein the railing system includes at least one opening, and the contoured area is positioned within the at least one opening.

21. The watercraft of claim 17, further comprising a movable structure, the movable structure being arranged at an exterior of the cover body when the cover is in the tightened configuration.

22. The watercraft of claim 17, further comprising a movable structure, the movable structure being positioned underneath the cover body when the cover is in the tightened configuration.

23. The watercraft of claim 17, wherein the watercraft is a pontoon boat.

24.-38. (canceled)