How to Build a Marine Half Tower

The half tower can also be made from fabric.

A marine half tower is a canopy over the tower of a boat. It is not meant for standing on or supporting objects, but acts as a shade from the sun and cover from the rain. The half tower may have glass around the front and sides or it may not. Most do not. The size and design of the tower will depend on the model of the boat.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Plastic sheet, one inch thick
• Sand paper
• Drill
• Screws
• Mounts
• Metal rods
• L-bracket mount

Instructions

1. Measure the deck where the half tower will be positioned. The half tower is generally the size of the deck, plus several additional feet extending over the bow.

2. Cut the half tower canopy from a 1-inch-thick plastic sheet, according to the dimensions in Step One. The best plastic to use is polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride (PVC.) Add 2 to 3 feet on the box end of the canopy.

3. Sand the bow portion of the canopy so that it is pointed. This will help it cut through the air better.

4. Attach four mounts to the exterior sides of the deck where the canopy will be mounted, using a drill.

5. Insert four metal rods into the mounts. The rods should be vertical. The length of the rods will be determined by how high you want the canopy and where the mounts are positioned. The top of the rod is where the canopy will go. Use this as an estimate for height.

6. Attach four L-bracket mounts to the top of the rods. An L-bracket mount has a round opening connector on one side and on the other side of the "L" it is flat. Place the round side on top of the rod, with the flat part facing in towards the boat.

7. Place the plastic canopy on top of the L-mounting brackets and screw it in.

References

• Aqua Shade: Half Tower
• Blue Coral Towers: Half Tower
• Superior Towers: Half Tower