The Sheltair cover from Marin'R is held in place by a structure of high-pressure air elements. The air pump is integrated and only needs to be supplied with power. The air can also be pumped out and the Sheltair can be packed away to save space. The advantage: the inflatable version can also be used in cockpits where there is no room for the stainless steel brackets of a conventional sunshade. What's more, it is only tied down, so no installation is necessary. This means that Sheltair can be used all over the boat, including on the foredeck or even on the beach to provide shade or rain protection.
The manufacturer offers different sizes, but also manufactures customised products. The centrepiece, the high-pressure structure, offers strength but also flexibility. Sheltair is said to remain stable even in winds of over 30 knots. The price starts at 2,500 euros.
Deck tent: A tent on deck
The Decktent company also has an inflatable bimini in its programme. With the Decktent, the fabric is tensioned by a strut that is inflated to high pressure. The awning is stowed in a bag that can be attached to the railing as an elongated sausage.
Four sizes are available: size XS measures 2.10 metres, size S is 2.30 metres long, size M 2.50 metres and L 3.0 metres. You can choose between the colours white and black. The price starts at 780 euros.
