1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

[Toeboater]

Just joined this forum and haven't found a discussion yet regarding the original canopy tops on an older Starcraft 18'. The one that appears to snap on to the top of the windshield? I have searched the internet for custom top makers or could possibly make one my self but does anyone know where to find the supports and hardware that fastens to the rails? Perhaps some pictures showing what the top looked like on a 1972 Starcraft Holiday 18' for a reference to their design? I know that it needs one and I would like to protect it and myself from the sun but I really, really, really do not want to put a "bimini" top on my vintage old boat.

Thanks Guys.
Love this site!

 

[oldsub86]

Re: 1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

I agree totally. A Bimini top might provide a bit of shade but won't help much if it is raining etc. I much prefer the old style snapped to the windshield. they seem to be becoming scarce.

Randy

 

[ondarvr]

Re: 1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

Just go down to the local canvas shop and they will make anything you want.

All parts are easily available.

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: 1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

Welcome to the site Toeboater, yeah we;ve pretty much come to the conclusion that custom is the only way to go for a real topper.

They came as an option from the factory, but aren't available as a replacement.

I'm considering buying a heavy-duty industrial sewing machine and seeing if I...or more likely...my significant other can figure it out.

 

[Toeboater]

Re: 1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

Thanks guys. This is actually my first "pleasure craft" boat although I've worked aboard towboats for many years on many rivers in the mid-west and when it comes to pleasure boaters let me tell ya, I've seen some things!
But of all the multitudes of styles and colors and designs of pleasure craft, nothing grabs my attention more than a finely kept and cared for vintage boat.
The vessel I recently aqquired is a 1972 Starcraft Holliday, aluminum hulled 18 footer with a 1150 Mercury outboard. This boat has spent the better part of it's existance parked in a barn! Everything is there and in amazing condition but where the original top went is anybody's guess. Anyway, I haven't had the chance to do anything at all to it but bring her home and cover her up. I intend to keep her looking as original as possible. This seems like the most likely place to get the help and information I'm going to need. The sewing machine idea is one that I share as well but first I have to figure out the bracings and stanchions and such. :redface:

 

[ezmobee]

Re: 1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

Welcome. Hopefully you've made your way down to the Starcraft section of this forum and check out some of the resto threads. We've probably got the largest collection of Starcraft enthusiasts on the internet! That's a really nice boat you have there and it should fly with that 115 Merc. The kind of top you're looking for is typically called a convertible top and it would need to be made by a canvas shop.

 

[Toeboater]

Re: 1972 Starcraft Holliday canopy

Welcome. Hopefully you've made your way down to the Starcraft section of this forum and check out some of the resto threads. We've probably got the largest collection of Starcraft enthusiasts on the internet! That's a really nice boat you have there and it should fly with that 115 Merc. The kind of top you're looking for is typically called a convertible top and it would need to be made by a canvas shop.

Thanks Cap. Convertable top. I remember that term now that you mention it.. Maybe it will help in my search.
With the aluminum hull making her light, I think it should do well. I hope so anyway! But I'm proud of her just the same. I was checking out your '76. That's going to be awsome! Personally, I like the color too.