Canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca – more space in the stern

A new Canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca can preserve the boat’s familiar lines while providing more usable space. In this project, Marstrands Marintextil AB manufactured a complete, custom-fit boat cover according to the customer’s specifications. We based the design on the old cover, reused the existing arches, and added an extra stainless-steel arch at the very back.

Above all, the customer wanted more space in the stern. So we traveled to Stockholm to take measurements directly on the boat, design the new shape, and verify how the solution would work. The work was carried out in our workshop in Marstrand, with follow-up visits for test assembly and fit checks. Final assembly was completed after the boat was launched.

Here we show the process from the old canopy to the finished solution: new marine-grade canopy fabric, YKK zippers, window plastic, PVC reinforcements, and a custom-made canopy cover.

New canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca, customized to the customer's specifications

The starting point was a Nimbus 26 DC Epoca with an older canopy. The customer wanted a new design with the same basic character, but with one change that made a difference on board: more space at the rear of the cockpit.

In older canopy designs, the rear section may slope inward, making the space under the canopy feel cramped. When we sew a new boat canopy, we can review which parts of the design should be retained and which need to be modified. In this case, we adapted the design to the customer’s preferences rather than simply copying the old canopy.

Existing arches and an additional stainless-steel canopy arch

The existing canopy arches were used as a foundation. By adding an extra stainless-steel arch at the very stern, we were able to alter the shape of the rear section of the canopy and create more space under the new roof. The arch’s placement and mountings were part of the overall redesign.

Such a change affects the roof section, side panels, and stern section. Therefore, the canopy fabric, windows, and zippers need to be designed in conjunction with the frames. It is the interplay between these parts that ensures a proper fit.

Custom-made boat covers in Stockholm

To build this canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca, we traveled to the customer’s location in Stockholm. We created the template directly on the boat so that we could work from its actual dimensions, the existing frames, and the planned modification to the stern.

We drew up the parts of the canopy, the window sections, and the placement of the zippers. During the process, we also took into account the connections to the boat and the necessary hardware and fasteners. The templates provided a concrete basis for cutting and sewing in the workshop.

From Template to Finished Chapel—The Process in 7 Steps

Sewing a custom-fit canopy involves coordinating several steps. For this canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca, we followed these steps:

Review of the customer's requests. We reviewed the old design and the need for more space in the stern.
Painting the boat in Stockholm. The boat's dimensions and frames served as the basis for the new design.
Modification of the arch structure. The existing arches were retained, and an additional stainless-steel arch was added at the very back.
Planning the chapel sections. Windows, zippers, reinforcements, and fasteners were designed and prepared.
Pattern-making and sewing in Marstrand. The canopy was made according to the patterns in the selected canopy fabric.
Test assembly and fit check. We returned to the boat to check the overall condition and fit.
Final assembly after launch. The new chapel was completed on the boat in preparation for the customer's use.

Manufacturing in Marstrand with planned visits to the boat

Our workshop is located in Marstrand. For this project, we scheduled our trips to Stockholm to coincide with our work at the workshop. Transportation costs were included in the agreed-upon scope of the project, since the customer specifically requested our assistance with the custom solution.

For a new project in a different location, we assess the site, accessibility, and the need for on-site visits before submitting a quote. The molding and installation are planned specifically for each individual boat.

Learn more about the project

Here you'll find information on material options, details, and pricing and quotes:

All components were designed based on the boat's construction and the customer's request for more space in the stern.

Fitting Check Before Completion

When rebuilding a canopy, the test assembly is an important part of the process. It shows how the various parts of the canopy fit together with the arches and the boat’s mountings, and how the structure functions once the canopy is in place.

This project included both a preliminary installation and a fit check prior to the final installation. This allowed us to work out the fit on the boat, even though the actual sewing was done in the workshop.

Delivery Time and Winter Promotion for This Project

The customer placed an order during our winter promotion and received 10 percent discount as ordered. The delivery time for this particular project was approximately 7–9 weeks, that is, about two months.

The schedule included trips to Stockholm, pattern-making, manufacturing in Marstrand, follow-up visits for fit checks, and final assembly after launch. A project involving work at multiple locations needs to be planned as a whole.

Delivery times and any promotional terms for a new order will be confirmed in the quote. The information above describes the completed project.

Navy-style twill fabric, YKK zippers, and reinforcements

The materials were selected for a boat cover intended for use in a marine environment. For this project, we used premium cover fabric from our own product line, along with YKK zippers, high-quality window film, and sewn-in PVC reinforcements.

Premium awning fabric in navy blue

The navy blue fabric gave the new chapel a cohesive look. When selecting fabric for a chapel, both appearance and intended use must be taken into account, as well as how the fabric works with the chapel’s shape and construction.

If you're looking to buy materials for your own project, you'll find our selection of canvas for boats and marine environments in the online store. We can also help you choose the fabric for a new custom-made canopy.

YKK zippers designed for awnings

We used YKK zippers designed for marine use and adjusted their placement to match the sections of the canopy that could be opened and closed. The zippers need to work in conjunction with the fit of the fabric so that the sections align as intended during assembly.

See our YKK Zippers and Accessories if you need materials for sewing or repairing chapels. Technical information on the construction of zippers is also available at YKK.

Window plastic and sewn PVC reinforcements

The window sections were laid out during the pattern-making process and manufactured from high-quality plastic. Their placement was adapted to the chapel’s lines, openings, and the new shape of the stern.

We also sewed PVC reinforcements around the canopy in the areas that needed extra protection and stability. Together with the hardware and fasteners, these details became part of the finished structure. The online store also offers window plastic and canopy panes for marine textile projects.

Canopy Cover – Custom-Fitted Protection for Canopies and Frames

To complement this, we sewed a custom-made chapel sock, a cover for the folded canopy at the arches. It is a practical canopy cover for when the entire canopy is not set up and you want to fold it up and store it in a custom-designed storage solution.

Custom-fit protection tailored to the shape of the arches

The cover was manufactured according to the current design. It therefore needed to fit both the arches and the shape of the folded canopy, so that it would serve as a useful complement to the new solution.

Before and after: a new cabin with more space in the stern

The finished cabin gave this Nimbus 26 DC Epoca a new navy blue look while also fulfilling the customer’s most important request: more space in the rear. The boat’s original design remained as the foundation, but the stern had been modified to include the additional arch.

The final installation was carried out after the boat was launched. The customer was very pleased with the result and was then able to use the boat with the new canopy in place. For us, it is the practical use on board that demonstrates the value of a solution custom-made for the boat and the customer’s specific needs.

How much does a new canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca cost?

The price of a new canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca depends on the canopy’s size, choice of materials, window sections, zippers, and fasteners. The need for new frames, design changes, travel expenses, and installation also affect the price quote.

A quote covering the entire project

This project included a complete new build, an additional stainless-steel arch, a custom-made canopy, and travel expenses for work on the boat in Stockholm. Therefore, a quote must be based on the entire project and the requirements that need to be met.

Price Estimate and Request for a Quote

On our page for New Chapel – Price and Cost Estimate You can get a preliminary price estimate and submit a request for a quote. The estimate is a preliminary guide; the final price will be determined after reviewing the boat, its dimensions, and its condition.

Buy awning fabric, zippers, and stainless steel hardware

After the canopy project was completed, the customer also ordered additional accessories and stainless steel hardware from us. Our online store offers materials and components both for add-ons and for those working on their own canopy projects.

Materials and Accessories for Boat Covers

In the online store, you'll find, among other things:

Check the dimensions, pipe size, and connection before ordering fittings. Feel free to send a photo of the existing part if you need help finding a suitable solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canopies for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca

Can you use my existing canopy arches?

Yes, as long as their condition and design are suitable for the new solution. In this project, we kept the existing arches and added an extra stainless-steel canopy arch at the stern. We’ll assess your needs based on your boat.

Could a new canopy provide more space in the back?

Yes, in some cases, the shape can be modified by adding an additional arch and new canopy sections. On this Nimbus 26 DC Epoca, creating more space in the aft section was a key part of the project. The possibilities need to be assessed on the specific boat in question.

Can you cut and install a canopy in Stockholm?

This project included pattern-making, fit checks, and final assembly in Stockholm. We are based in Marstrand and can plan assignments in other locations by arrangement. Please specify the boat’s location in your inquiry so we can assess travel arrangements and the project plan.

What do you need to provide a quote?

Please send us the boat model, photos of the boat and the old canopy, approximate dimensions, and a description of your requests. Also let us know where the boat is located, whether the arches should be kept, and when you would like the work completed.

Request a quote for a custom-made boat cover

Are you looking for a new canopy for the Nimbus 26 DC Epoca or another boat model? Marstrands Marintextil AB can help you with custom-fit boat covers and changes that make the solution better suited to how you use the boat.

Send photos, a boat model, and your requests

To prepare a clear price quote, we need:

Start with our price calculator or Please contact us with photos and your requests. Please let us know specifically if you’d like to modify the space in the stern, add additional arches, or order a canopy. That way, we can prepare a clear plan for the next step.