Polycarbonate vs Isinglass: Which Boat Enclosure Material is Right for You?

Polycarbonate Dodger

Strataglass Cockpit Enclosure

Introduction

When it comes to protecting your boat, choosing the right window enclosure material isn't just about aesthetics — it’s about safety, longevity, and preserving your vessel’s value. At Anchor Custom Canvas, we specialize in crafting premium enclosures for flybridges and cockpits using the industry's finest materials. But not all clear enclosures are created equal. Two of the most popular options, polycarbonate and Isinglass (vinyl-pressed plastic), offer very different performance, durability, and care requirements. Here’s what you need to know before making your decision.

What is Isinglass?

Isinglass refers to a flexible, vinyl-pressed clear material traditionally used for boat windows. It provides an affordable, workable solution, especially when flexibility is necessary — allowing panels to be rolled up or removed easily.

At Anchor Custom Canvas, we use only premium-grade vinyl products such as Strataglass and Crystal Clear 20/20. Strataglass, when properly maintained, can last up to 7 years, delivering excellent clarity and performance over time. However, because vinyl is inherently softer, over time — and especially under the heat of the sun — it can stretch, wrinkle, and develop visual distortion, particularly if not properly cared for.

What is Polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is a rigid, optical-grade plastic known for its superior durability and crystal-clear visibility — often even clearer than traditional glass when new.

At Anchor Custom Canvas, we offer Tuffak/Makrolon branded polycarbonate panels in a consistent 60mil thickness for maximum strength and minimal vibration. Here’s what we install:

• Makrolon GP – Lifespan: 2–4 years

• Makrolon AR2 – Lifespan: 4–6 years (price point similar to Strataglass)

• Makrolon Marine 5 – Lifespan: 7+ years (with a 5-year manufacturer warranty)

Unlike vinyl, polycarbonate does not flex or wrinkle, providing clean, strong visibility season after season. However, it cannot be polished if scratched, making proper maintenance crucial to preserve its clarity.

Key Differences Between Polycarbonate and Isinglass

Feature	Polycarbonate	Isinglass (Strataglass)
Clarity	Exceptional optical clarity	Excellent clarity when new; slight distortion over time
Durability	Extremely strong; no stretching or wrinkling	Very durable with proper care; can stretch slightly
Maintenance	Must use microfiber cloths; no glass cleaners	Must use microfiber cloths; no glass cleaners
Flexibility	Rigid	Flexible and rollable
Storage	Must store flat	Can be rolled and stored compactly
Cost	Higher upfront (especially Marine 5)	Mid-tier (similar to Makrolon AR2 pricing)
Best for	Long-term, permanent installs, high-end yachts	Removable windows, flexibility, storage concerns

Choosing the Right Material for Your Needs

If maximum visibility, long-term protection, and a high-end look are your priorities, polycarbonate offers unmatched clarity and performance. Especially in the foggy, ever-changing conditions of the Bay Area, the difference between vinyl and polycarbonate visibility becomes not just cosmetic, but a serious safety factor.

However, premium Strataglass remains an excellent option for boaters who require flexibility — especially for designs where panels need to be rolled up or easily removed. Strataglass, when properly maintained, can provide exceptional service life comparable to many polycarbonate options and is often selected for boats with storage limitations or layout designs that demand flexibility.

At Anchor Custom Canvas, we consult carefully with each boat owner to recommend the right materials based on your needs, usage habits, storage space, and budget.

Care and Maintenance

Regardless of material choice, maintenance is key to longevity.Both polycarbonate and Strataglass require:

• Microfiber cloths only (no paper towels or abrasive rags)

• No glass cleaners — use only specialized products:

  • NOVUS 3-2-1 System for polycarbonate panels

  • IMAR Cleaner and Polish for vinyl-pressed windows

• Washing the boat regularly to remove salt buildup, rinsing gently, and covering windows when not in use will dramatically extend the clarity and lifespan of your enclosures.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between polycarbonate and vinyl-pressed enclosures isn't simply about cost — it’s about how you use your boat, what conditions you face, and how much you value uncompromised clarity and low maintenance.

At Anchor Custom Canvas, we bring decades of real-world experience from both Newport Beach and the San Francisco Bay Area to every project. Whether you need rugged, removable panels or sleek, crystal-clear protection built to endure the harshest marine environments, we provide expert guidance, precision craftsmanship, and top-tier marine materials for your boat.

Contact Anchor Custom Canvas today to explore your enclosure options — and experience the difference custom craftsmanship can make.