Volamare: Inflatable bimini without a frame

A bimini is designed to provide shade without restricting space in the cockpit. Traditional solutions achieve this using an aluminium or stainless steel frame that remains permanently fitted to the boat or, at the very least, requires fixed attachment points. Volamare, on the other hand, relies on an air-supported structure: integrated air tubes, which, according to the manufacturer, are reinforced with Kevlar, give the fabric its shape.

The new product is thus positioning itself in a niche that focuses on Inflatable cockpit tents and bimini tops aims to achieve. Such solutions are not new. However, their key advantage remains the same, particularly on sailing yachts with a compact cockpit, on the foredeck or on catamarans: there is no need to install brackets, deck plates or rails to provide temporary shade.

4.5 square metres of shade

The Volamare measures approximately 2.60 by 1.70 metres. That works out at 4.42 square metres; the manufacturer states that it provides around 4.5 square metres of shade. The sail is said to be available in white or black.

According to Volamare, all you need to set it up is an air pump. Three valves are designed to speed up deflation after use. According to the manufacturer, the sun awning can then be stowed away compactly. This is the central idea behind the design, particularly for boats where every fixed component in the cockpit has to compete for space with the mainsheet, sprayhood, swim ladder or walkway.

Doing away with the frame saves weight and eliminates the need for a permanent installation. With a conventional bimini, the choice is determined by the width between the mounting points, the height, the length and the fabric; the frame structure keeps the fabric in shape at all times. Classic bimini tops They are therefore a robust solution for a cockpit cover used on a regular basis, but require suitable fittings and space for brackets and straps.

With the Volamare sun awning, the key issue centres on the guying system. The product information provided does not specify any recommended attachment points or a permissible wind speed. There is also no information on how it behaves in gusts, whilst sailing or in the rain. In practice, this is more important than the sheer area of shade: a lightweight sun awning must fit neatly around existing cleats, handrails or railings and be able to be taken down quickly as the wind picks up. A detailed test report will follow in YACHT as soon as we have had the opportunity to test the system extensively in wind, rain and sunshine.

This reflects the fundamental difference between a sun sail and a bimini: a flexible fabric offers plenty of flexibility in terms of positioning, but is more susceptible to the wind and requires more careful readjustment. Sun awnings are particularly useful when the boat is moored or at anchor; where there are frequent changes in course and speed, a fixed bimini is generally the more durable solution.

Who might find this concept interesting

With its light weight and compact stowage dimensions, Volamare is aimed at owners looking for seasonal or portable sun protection. This can be useful on a charter yacht, as well as on boats without a pre-fitted bimini or for crews who wish to move their shaded area between the cockpit and the foredeck depending on the position of the sun.

Check the details carefully before making a purchase

At a price of 2,975 euros, the Volamare system clearly falls into the premium category. Before deciding to buy, prospective buyers should therefore clarify which pump is included, how and where the sail may be attached to the boat, at what wind speeds it can be used, and whether repair kits are available. Only this information will reveal whether the lightweight design is suitable for your own cockpit and the intended sailing area. Read more in the YACHT test.

All technical specifications, the price and the details regarding the design are based on information provided by Volamare.