Boat
Narrowboat Cushions: A Guide to Measuring, Fabric and Foam
How to measure narrowboat dinette, side bench and bed cushions, and which fabric and foam cope with condensation and life on the canal.
On this page
Quick answer: Measure each seat base and back separately, trace any angled or curved pieces on paper, and choose a hard-wearing, easy-clean fabric with foam that suits how you use the seat. Dinette seats that convert to a bed need firm foam of equal thickness so the bed lies flat.
Narrowboat seating rarely matches standard sizes. Side benches taper, dinette backs double as bed infills and bow seating follows the curve of the hull. Made-to-measure cushions solve all of that, and you can replace just the covers if the foam is still good.
How to measure narrowboat cushions
- Measure the seat base, not the old cushion: width, depth and the thickness you want.
- For tapered or angled seats, measure both ends and the depth at each end.
- For curved or odd shapes, make a paper template, mark the front edge and send us a photo with the measurements.
- For a dinette that converts to a bed, measure the full bed area too, so every piece meets cleanly.
- Note any cut-outs for posts, steps or water tanks.
Our measuring guide shows each step. We send a spec sheet for you to approve before we cut anything.
Choosing fabric for life on the canal
- Inside the cabin: soft, durable upholstery such as Warwick or velvet, or faux leather that wipes clean.
- On deck or at the bow: Sunbrella, which resists fading and mould, or marine vinyl for seats that get splashed.
- Condensation: boats get damp in winter, so choose fabrics that resist mould and keep covers removable for washing.
Choosing foam
- Daily seating and beds: high density foam keeps its shape, typically 10–13 cm (4–5″) thick.
- Backs: a softer foam is more comfortable, but keep it for backs only, never seats.
- Outdoor seats: quick-drain open-cell foam dries fast after rain.
Foam for UK orders is made and cut in the UK by our partner GB Foam Direct. Every cover has a zip, with matching ties standard and Velcro on request.
Ordering
Build each piece in our boat cushion builder, or send us your templates and we will quote. Standard shapes take 2–3 weeks to make, and template shapes take 5–6 weeks, with free UK delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace just the covers on my narrowboat cushions?
Yes. If the foam still holds its shape, order covers only, sewn to the size of your foam.
What thickness should narrowboat seat cushions be?
Most seats work well at 10–13 cm. Dinette cushions that make up a bed should all be the same thickness so the bed is level.
Can you make angled or curved cushions?
Yes. Send a paper template or careful measurements of both ends, and we cut to that shape.
