Oceansouth Universal Grey Boat Awning (3 Sizes up to 360 x 420 cm)

The Oceansouth awning is a universal solution for creating shade and sun protection on almost any boat. It doesn’t require a permanent frame like a bimini top – instead, it can be quickly set up when needed and taken down when not in use. Its structure relies on a durable fabric and a system of tensioning straps, which makes it extremely adaptable in terms of application. The grey color of the canopy reflects sunlight and reduces heat underneath, creating a cool area for relaxation.

The material is specially chosen: Oceansouth’s Cyclone Canvas, with UV protection of grade 6–7 (on a scale up to 8) – meaning the fabric can withstand prolonged exposure to intense sun without breaking down or fading rapidly. The large size (360 x 420 cm) is made of a heavier ATLAS fabric ~280 g/m² for extra strength, while the smaller sizes use around 220 g/m², balancing lightness and durability. All seams are reinforced, and the edges of the canopy have sewn-in sleeves/straps for threading the support ropes through.

Sizes & Coverage:

• Small (250 x 240 cm): Suits boats about 3.5 – 5 meters. Example use – the cockpit of a small yacht or the open deck of a fishing skiff. Provides shade for 2–3 people.
• Medium (300 x 320 cm): For boats ~5 – 7 meters. Can cover the cockpit of a medium sailboat or the entire open area of a runabout/cruiser. Shade for 4+ people.
• Large (360 x 420 cm): For vessels 7 – 10 meters. Covers a large area – e.g., the cockpit plus part of the deck on a yacht, or the entire fore/aft section of a bigger motorboat. Spacious enough for 6-8 people to sit under cover.

The awning features an intelligent design with a central slit (about 85 cm on the small, 120 cm on medium/large) that can be closed with Velcro. This is mainly intended for sailboats – the slit opens to allow a mainsail boom or a backstay to pass through, then closes snugly around it with Velcro so no sun peeks in. There’s also a buckle to tighten/lift the opening around rigging. Of course, if used on a motorboat with no mast or stays, this opening remains shut.

Setup: The kit comes with a set of adjustable webbing straps with buckles, ropes, and hooks/fasteners for securing. Installation can be done in various ways depending on the boat:

• On a sailboat: the canopy is often draped over the boom like a tent. The forward corners tie to the mast or cabin top grab rails, the aft corners to aft cleats or backstay lines. The straps allow for adjustment so the canopy can be pulled flat and taut.
• On a motorboat: it can be stretched between the bow and stern – e.g. front corners to bow rails or cleats, rear corners to a T-top, to aft cleats, or even to the helm console. In the absence of a high attachment point, telescopic support poles are often used (sold separately) – they prop up the center of the awning like tent poles.
• As a camping tarp: the awning can be set up on land by itself, using oars, poles, or trees as supports – providing shade on the beach next to your boat.

When properly installed, the awning is stable in mild wind and light rain. However, it’s not meant for use while sailing at high speed or in strong winds – it’s recommended to take it down in winds above ~15 knots or when the boat is moving fast to avoid damage. Takedown is easy – just loosen the straps, collapse the fabric and roll it up.

Storage: When folded, the awning packs away compactly into a storage bag or pouch (for the larger sizes). The fabric doesn’t trap water and dries quickly, so there’s little risk of mildew if you let it dry before stowing.

With the Oceansouth universal grey awning, your boat gets a versatile sunshade that can be deployed as needed – for family relaxation at anchor, to shield people and gear from the midday sun, or even as a rain shelter during an unexpected shower. It combines the advantages of portability with the qualities of a professional marine product, making it a valuable accessory for any boater.