I'm gaining ground on the interior rebuild on my '54 Family Cruiser. I'm close to being able to start refitting some wood. I am using solid mahogany and 1/4" Hydrotek Merante plywood. I'm planning on varnishing all sides of the interior wood to help prevent rot (plus sealing all of the 57 years worth of leaks in the cabin). I searched through past posts and found a recommendation for Epifane Boolak spar varnish. Alternately, there is a Sherwin Williams store in town that has been helpful in the past. I was thinking of asking them for a recommendation. Anyone have a good tip?

I'm also replacing the aft deck with 3/4 "teak and holly". I'll definitely need a good durable finish here. The aft deck on a '54 Marinette is pretty much completely under roof so it will have some protection.

Thanks!

DD

I have used Epiphane Bootlak for years and it has given complete satisfaction. Indoors, nothing matches it for good looks and durability. On my last project I used Bristol Classic Clear Water Based Urethane Interior Soft Satin which is very easy to use and lovely and hard as a rock when dry. I will probably use it on future projects.

Bootlak is a traditional varnish, and outdoors it does need to be renewed yearly. The better bet on deck is a catalyzed modern varnish. My favorite is Bristol Traditional Amber Urethane which is as long-lived on deck as anything I know of.

I would not put real teak and holly in the cockpit, covered or not. You could put down marine ply and Lonwood teak&holly vinyl, which is wonderful looking and easy maintenance to boot. It is expensive, tho.