Shetland Cadet Cover Assessment Guide

Start with the cockpit and the existing cover arrangement

Identify whether you need fabric for a lower cockpit or tonneau cover, a raised canopy or hood, or individual existing panels. Check what area is enclosed and how the cover meets the screen or cabin. Do not use overall hull dimensions as a substitute for that pattern.

Look at the retained supports, the shape of the upper panels and the position of every fastening along the cockpit edge. A change to a support, screen, zip connection or fastening line can affect the replacement. Describe your own arrangement even if you know the boat model.

Identify the cover type you already use · Shetland Cadet cover options and current catalogue

Check windows, access and the fastening line

Photograph the hood or cockpit cover normally fitted before removing it. For a raised cover, show how the windows, opening panels and supports relate to one another. For a lower cover, show its edge shape, support and fixing positions.

• Take front, rear and side views that show the full fitted outline.
• Record the screen or cabin attachment, cockpit edge and retained support details.
• Show where windows and access panels sit, and which zips or fasteners are worn or difficult to use.
• Photograph loose areas, pooling or excessive tension in their normal fitted position.
• If the hood folds or is removed for storage, explain how the existing arrangement is handled; do not assume another frame folds in the same way.

Separate a local repair from worn-out fabric

A cloudy window, damaged zip or short failed seam may be a local repair when the surrounding fabric is sound. If the cloth is thin or brittle across several panels, further repair needs an assessment. A new window does not strengthen all of the material around it.

Explain whether the cover still fits the existing supports and fastening line. If a panel only closes when forced, a support has moved, or part of the old cover is missing, include that information in the enquiry. It may affect whether the old sample is suitable to copy.

Read about cover repairs · Compare repair and replacement considerations

Discuss material, windows and stowage together

Discuss marine-grade acrylic or PVC for the actual panel design and how you use, fold and store the cover. Window size and placement, openings, reinforcement and fastening details must suit the retained supports and agreed cover area.

Do not select fabric on a promised lifespan or on a claim that it will prevent all condensation. Support, ventilation, weather exposure and care affect performance. We supply replacement fabric for the agreed canopy, cockpit or tonneau area and suitable retained supports. We do not supply new supporting frames or on-site fitting and installation, and we do not make whole-boat or winter-storage covers.

Review the fabric options with Ryan · Read the material comparison guide

Prepare an assessed postal-copy enquiry

Send fitted photographs to Ryan for assessment, then agree the cover specification, quote and suitable sample before posting anything. A model name or overall boat length and beam does not establish a cover pattern.

An old Cadet cover can be useful as a template if its shape, panels and fixing positions can be assessed. Missing pieces, shrinkage or an altered fitting layout need to be explained before manufacture is agreed. Ask which further photographs, dimensions or pattern details are required rather than assuming that sending any sample is enough.

The Shetland Cadet model page holds the commercial cover options and applicable current catalogue prices. Request an individual quote for your agreed panels, windows and fittings. No VAT is added. We aim to dispatch within 6 working days of receiving your old cover or confirmed measurements; delivery time is additional.

Shetland Cadet cover options and current catalogue · Read the assessed postal-copy process · Send Ryan fitted-cover photographs · Prepare the measurements agreed for your enquiry

Inspect and care for the fitted cover

Follow the care guidance for the actual cloth and window material, and allow the cover to dry before packing. Avoid sharp folds through clear windows. Check fasteners, stitching and support regularly, and investigate sagging or pooling rather than tightening a strained panel further.

Assess condition rather than expecting a stated number of years. How the cover is supported, handled, maintained and exposed to weather matters alongside its fabric choice. Send photographs of developing damage while a local repair may still be practical.

Cover cleaning and care guidance