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The Best Marine Varnishes

Written by J. Harvey / Fact checked by S. Numbers

Let’s face it, we don’t give as much credit to the almost perfect combination of boats and varnishes. After all, vessels aren’t exactly cheap. They aren’t immune to deterioration as well. If there’s one solid way for you to preserve the life of your investment and even take her beauty up a notch, wouldn’t you seize it?

For my part, I can wholeheartedly say that these varnishes are great investments, especially if we’re talking about the best marine varnish. These concoctions go beyond their practical benefits, lending anything made of wood with a nice finish that only unlocks and magnifies their natural exquisiteness.

I can say as much for the products I’ve featured here. They have given me noteworthy, if not outstanding, results that make the others I’ve tried in my more than ten years of boating and fishing pale in comparison.

• Great finish
• Easy to use
• Great value for money

• Superb satin finish
• High gloss protection
• Very versatile varnish

• Easy to apply
• Excellent UV protection

Table of Contents

1. Rust-Oleum 207008 Marine Spar Varnish

2. totalboat gleam marine spar varnish, 3. epifanes cv.500 clear varnish, 4. mccloskey 7509 man o’war spar marine varnish, 5. totalboat 482869 lust marine varnish, 6. epifanes wfm.500 wood finish matte, 7. minwax 63200444 helmsman spar urethane, 8. interlux iva316/qt cetol natural teak varnish, 9. mccloskey 7505 man o’ war spar varnish, 10. pettit marine paint flagship varnish 2015, 11. system three 1855s16 marine spar varnish, 12. duralux m738-1 spar varnish, 13. old masters 153617 spar marine varnish, factors to consider when choosing marine varnish, what is the best marine varnish, what is the difference between spar varnish and marine barnish, how do you apply marine varnish to wood, how long will marine varnish last, is marine spar varnish waterproof, best marine varnish reviews.

If I’m going for all-around reliability and protection from sun and moisture damage, I’d choose this varnish in a heartbeat.

This is my go-to varnish for anything wood found in my sailboat. Whether it’s furniture or railing or sometimes even the bow, I often get the kind of maintainability I want every time I use this. The finish is no less attractive and only gets glittery over time in a number of my past applications.

Thinned up to around 30%, it dries quickly enough to apply multiple coats in a day. Sometimes I go for as low as 20%, down to even 5%. It’s because thinning too much does tend to backfire and lead to the varnish taking a long time to dry. It’s easy to use with everything considered.

If you want the best results, I’ve found that using a fresh foam brush with every coat would result in optimal smoothness. It may seem like a waste, buying multiple brushes, but the results are unrivaled, to say the least. I’ve had applications that lasted for a good 3 years before I needed to refinish them.

• Excellent UV and water protection
• More affordable but with high-end results
• Low shelf life

This varnish smoothly combines ease of use, beautiful finishes, and above-average durability. The winning formula for successful marine finishes for wood, in short.

This varnish is versatile in that it leaves plenty of routes open for you to take. For one, I like that they give you plenty of freedom when choosing the shine you want. It’s also available in different sizes, so I always get to buy only the proportions I deem fit for a specific project.

I have to be partial to the satin finish, though, since it delivers the exquisite luster I like to see in my indoor boat furniture and fixtures like railings. However, I always make sure to apply a high-gloss varnish if I’m working on anything that has to be exposed to the sun for long hours. That being said, I like that this product gives you both satin and gloss options.

I make sure to apply the high-gloss varnish as a topcoat, and I’ve gotten excellent results, mostly 1 to 2 years of unblemished finishes, with this practice. Sometimes, it’s shorter than that, especially on wooden areas that are more exposed to the elements. Yet, it’s protection you normally expect and can get from high-gloss varnish. In addition, it’s a varnish that’s also noticeably on the thin side, so I kind of get that it wears away faster than thicker varieties.

• Uncomplicated to apply
• Has multiple sheen and size options
• Not as durable as others

Another safe option, Epifanes marine spar varnish is anything but average with its status as a crowd favorite. Expect superior finish and durability if you choose this.

This varnish easily earns a spot here, considering its unchanging and undeniably positive reputation among boaters. Simply put, it’s hard to fault because of the wonderful results it can bring. The shiny, attractive gloss that has the Epifanes trademark is rarely surpassed by other marine-grade varnishes in my opinion.

What’s equally neat is that it’s not difficult to apply. You don’t really need to sand it with every coat, unlike the majority of other brands out there, but I still suggest you do it, especially in the later coatings. I recommend using marine spirits as a thinner with a 2:1 ratio, and take the time to pour it through a strainer to guarantee a smooth finish. At best, you’ll have to set 5 to 7 days of gradual coating to get the kind of attractive finish you want; and I mean capital-A attractive.

As in other great exterior varnishes, this product is an example to follow when imparting UV protection. At least, that’s what I think is primarily responsible for the excellent finish and the overall durability. I use this as much on my sailboat’s wood portions above the waterline and furniture as well as furnishings in my home, and the finish often lasts for 2 years on average.

• Amazing shine and finish
• Takes a while to dry
• Short shelf life

McCloskey’s Man O’War spar varnish is durable, to an almost no-brainer degree. It’s what I buy if I want to get the best out of what spar varnish offers to the average boater.

Despite its relatively hard finish, spar varnish tends to wear out faster than urethane. It’s a natural thing, so I won’t bother to list it as a con. You can’t mimic the deep amber tint, caramelization, and versatility of good old spar varnish, and this brand delivers no less than that trio of perks.

If I’m going to name a worthy brand representative of spar varnishes, I’d promptly pick this one. It adheres excellently to any kind of wood, so I generously slather any wooden fixture in my boat with this once I get a hold of a bottle.

While it’s easy to use, you’d better be prepared to invest time working with this varnish. I use mineral spirits for thinning, and I make sure to apply thin coats, starting from the middle, using a mini roller and a brush, mohair and ox hair respectively. I sand in between coats, and overall it takes time since it dries slowly.

The durability stems a lot from the outstanding UV protection. My sailboat’s wooden bow that has this finish has been battered by rain a good number of times already, and it’s still holding up after a year since the initial application. Since it’s effortless to apply, I just sand and recoat every once in a while.

• Outstanding UV protection
• Adheres to most types of wood
• Classic, eye-catching spar varnish finish
• Slow-drying
• Limited availability

TotalBoat is a household name in the marine industry as far as paints and varnishes go. This is the brand’s best offering if we’re going to consider fundamental factors like durability, shine, and value for money.

I need to stress outright that this varnish is extra thick, almost honey-like. If you don’t thin it out to at least 50%, you’ll only end up grappling with it to less than desirable results. It’s not exactly beginner-friendly with that considered, but it does pay off since you get optimal protection and the kind of shine any boat owner would be proud of.

Speaking of the finish, it begins to shine through once you hit the one-year mark. At least, that’s what I get from most of the vessels and furniture I apply it to. I can say that it’s smooth sailing once you take the time to know the right consistency.

I often use a roller and apply 5 coats then do a recoat after 2 hours in a whole day. Ideally, the last two coats should only be thinned by about 10% only. It might get tricky applying it then but, trust me, you’ll get the hang of it.

I get the results I want within a day or two — or more at times during less than optimal humidities and temperatures. Even so, that’s obviously quicker than handling traditional varnish, which takes weeks to settle. I do acknowledge the thinner’s role in helping with the drying time.

• Excellent shine and finish
• Proven durability
• Becomes easy to use with practice
• Quick-drying

If we’re talking about top-of-the-line, marine-grade durability, this one deserves to be called the best marine wood finish.

This is my favorite to use on teak because of its proven waterproof capabilities and the fact that its satin finish has just the right amount of sheen, for me, at least. It brings out the beauty of the teak and almost any wood I apply it to, for that matter, and this is coming from someone who has tried numerous marine-grade varnish before. I’ve had furniture that managed to maintain its finish for an impressive 5 years with the help of this varnish.

It’s a bit of a challenge to apply. It actually flows well enough as it is, and I rarely have to thin it with every application. However, you have to make sure that you apply it evenly with every coat and oftentimes as quickly as possible. Once I get patchy and bubbly results, that’s the only time I thin it, and I sand after the first coat, totaling up to 3 coats on average. It will dry more slowly if I thin it, though.

• Excellent durability
• Nice satin finish
• Flows smoothly without thinning
• Brings out the beauty of the wood extremely well
• Fairly cost-effective
• Not beginner-friendly

Though not marine-grade, Minwax has proven to be just as durable as many products with that label. It’s very easy to use and delivers just the right amount of shine.

I often use this on my sailboat’s furniture, and if left with no other options, even the wooden exterior of the hull and bow. It goes well with canoes, but I only tend to apply it on the ribs, rudder, and planking. While not marine-grade, it’s great for outdoor furniture, and, to me, that’s always a good sign of heavy-duty UV protection.

If I want to reinforce the protection, I only need to apply more layers, 4 coats at most but not less than 2. I’ve only used it on oak-made fixtures, though, and I get the longevity and finish I want with that kind of simple setup. The varnish lasts up to 1 to 2 years before recoating becomes necessary, with minor peeling only appearing after a year based on my experience.

I like that they give you plenty of options with regards to sheen and container sizes. I prefer satin for my interior furniture. I once made the mistake of not mixing it well and got a result that’s almost similar to high gloss. To avoid this, you need to make sure you mix it for a good 5 minutes and scrape the sides and bottoms of the can as you do so. This guarantees the soft shine you’re aiming for.

• Plenty of sheen and size options
• Decent durability
• Dries quickly
• Not exactly marine-grade

This varnish earns my thumbs up with the kind of inimitable finish it can deliver and its relatively easy application.

This has since become my favorite varnish on teak fixtures when I tried it out 2 years ago. This is because of the immense difference it makes in the way it lends my pulpit or anything made of teak with a sophisticated, good-as-new finish. It’s not overly glossy, which I attribute to the “natural teak” claim, and only darkens the wood a tad so it will still maintain its natural hues.

I’m glad it didn’t cause any yellowing, and after my second application, I can still say the same. It has a runny consistency that merits forgoing thinning on the first coat. I like to use a brush when applying it to have better control over coverage, which is great enough as it is, and all I can say is that I’ll apply this to my boat’s bow and rails the moment they start showing signs of wear.

Nonetheless, it would be pushing it to say that it’s as durable as the other varnishes here. It only took a year before my bow showed signs of peels and cracks. However, after I applied a single maintenance coat on the entire thing, I found that it limited or delayed the damage since I’ve yet to see signs again after doing a recoating. That being said, I suggest applying a fresh layer at least once a year to make the most out of this marine varnish for boats.

• Outstanding finish
• No sanding and thinning required in most cases
• Good coverage
• Minimal darkening
• Well worth the money
• A bit pricey
• Not durable

Budget-friendly, reliable, and just as good as other solid brands, this McCluskey varnish is a must for anyone choosing to go for value for money all the way.

The fact that this varnish can give you outstanding satin finishes and superb durability without going overboard in cost should give you a ready hint why a lot of boaters are shifting to this product. When I say superb durability, I mean thick coatings that you’ll be confident will last for years.

In my case, the minimum is 3 years on all my wood projects, boat bows, railings, and furniture included. You may start seeing peels and scratches here and there, as evidenced by the 7-year-old canoe that I refurbished 3 years ago. But, to me, it’s still none the worse for wear and nothing a minor recoating job won’t remedy.

The finish is not unlike the ones I get from the other varnishes mentioned here. It accentuates the natural color and look of the wood, and I’m saying this for redwood, teak, and light oak, which are the types I’ve applied it to. It dries in a day like most spar varnishes and typically doesn’t need to be thinned, though sanding is ideal per coat.

Incidentally, I need to underline the fact that this varnish is one of the few that doesn’t skin over in the can after you’ve stored what’s left of it. At least, that’s what I can say for most of the cans I’ve purchased and stored, with about a third of the can full in a year.

• Works well for most types of wood
• Superior durability
• Doesn’t skin like other varnishes
• More reasonably priced than other brands

This rarely figures in marine varnish review posts, and that’s unfortunate considering it’s another top-quality marine varnish that doesn’t yellow, imparts a glossy and thick appearance, and superb UV protection.

Usually, I use this as a general-purpose varnish for the teak and cedar parts and fixtures of my one and only yacht. It gives a deep-colored, thick, glossy, grainy, and smooth finish that I can’t get enough of. It doesn’t yellow at all, probably because of the UV additive used, at least, partly. Anyway, this is one positive quality I always like from any alkyd varnish that is done right.

I prefer to spray this one, following the 20% thinning guideline. Spraying shortens the time for full coverage. I sand lightly between coats using 220-grit sandpaper, and by and large, I only need 3 to 4 coats to get the beautiful finish I described above. It takes almost a whole day to dry, but I don’t mind since I get quality results.

As for durability, I can safely say it’s UV stable. I often leave a couple of chairs and tables out on the deck if the weather’s great, oftentimes, for an entire day. Besides a few scratches in some parts, which aren’t UV-related, they haven’t peeled yet and have maintained their shininess after 2 years since application. I can say the same for the yacht’s teak pulpit.

• Doesn’t yellow
• Superb UV protection
• Proven gloss retention

To me, this is the best boat varnish if we’re only considering durability. It also earns a ready checkmark in protection and attractive finish, making it nothing short of tough to beat.

As far as durability is concerned, the longest that I’ve seen this last without undergoing any kind of major peeling or cracking is close to 3 and a half years. It was on my favorite canoe, which I use fairly regularly for freshwater fishing. 3 years is the maximum for any exterior wood varnish for me, and without a doubt, many boaters would say the same.

I attribute most of the longevity to the excellent water and UV protection. My canoe has borne the brunt of rain and water splashes over the years. I can say the same when I expose it to extensive sunlight exposure when I go fishing in Lake Erie. Top-tier durability in my book.

I sometimes use a thinner with this varnish, but I’ve found that you don’t really need to thin it if you use an HVLP spray gun. Sure, it takes a while to dry and you have to be extra careful, but I’ll take that any day if I get to enjoy these perks and results consistently.

• Outstanding durability
• Relatively attractive finish
• Easy to apply with a sprayer
• Comes in gloss and satin varieties
• Dries slowly without a thinner

A true gem of a find, Duralux exceeded my expectations with its durability and versatility.

In almost any kind of marine varnish for exterior doors, durability and protection immediately go well together. This spar varnish proves it doesn’t belong on the back burner by delivering both. One of my canoes that I applied this on is still going strong for more than a year, and that’s a quality not a lot of products can boast of.

I’ve had varnish that didn’t take more than a month to start peeling and cracking. That’s after a fresh application, mind you, and, yes, I follow brand recommendations to a tee if I haven’t discovered a better way to apply it. This varnish has kept my other canoes shiny every time so I deemed it deserves the spotlight.

Moreover, it doesn’t yellow over time, unlike some clear varnish I’ve used before. You may argue that there’s a lot of variables when it comes to varnish yellowing, like sanding and possible chemicals it can react to. I’m not sure whether this is spar polyurethane, but I’m betting it is since that’s the only type of varnish I’ve used that doesn’t give me the yellowing effect even with minimal to no sanding.

• Satisfactory finish
• Uncomplicated application
• Doesn’t yellow over time
• Doesn’t dry quickly

Old Masters’s varnish shouldn’t be overlooked for its conveniences and quality that only a few top-tier varnish brands can bravely claim they can deliver every time.

This is among the lesser-known spar varnishes that don’t yellow even after a long time has passed. The canoe that I refurbished 3 years ago would prove as much, as it’s still holding up well, surprisingly if I might add. To be honest, this was a second option when I bought it as I didn’t have TotalBoat and McCluskey varnishes available back when I did the finishing job.

I was pleasantly surprised by how things turned out. I followed the instructions and stirred it well. It’s just the right kind of thick, to the point that I don’t have to thin it when applying with a brush or roller. I do have to thoroughly sand and clean the surface first, and it evens out nicely with every coating.

It dries quickly enough for me to apply a second coat in a single day, making me think it’s an exception among oil-based spar varnishes. At best, I give an allowance of 8 to 10 hours before brushing the next coat. Obviously, that’s a time-saving perk I’ll take any day.

It doesn’t produce a yellowing effect, even when applied to parts of my canoe that are regularly exposed to heat, sunlight, and the elements. That’s noteworthy considering it’s a clear varnish. I even have to say that the slightly weathered look it has gotten lends it a charm that most boaters would appreciate.

• Easy application
• Decent durability and finish
• Doesn’t yellow with age
• Limited to small pint-sized cans

Based on my experience, there are many “safe” marine varnish options out there. This only means you’re likely to not run out of beginner-friendly brands and can guarantee high-quality results at the same time. Whether it’s high-gloss or satin, all spar varnishes are easy to apply over new wood or previously coated surfaces. Marine varnish is also not partial to any type of wood and can accommodate those commonly found aboard or form part of a vessel, like teak, redwood, oak, etc.

However, that doesn’t completely discount the need to pay attention to certain factors when making your decision. These are usually the ones I make a note of when planning to start a varnishing job.

• Durability – I’ve found that marine-grade polyurethane is hard to equal when it comes to finishes that are guaranteed to last. Most spar varnishes pale in comparison to their urethane counterparts in this regard because polyurethane tends to last for a minimum of 3 years before re-coats are needed, based on my experience. This is why they’re great options as a marine varnish for outdoor furniture.

For spar varnishes, I’ve had finishes that only lasted a year or even less. At best, these two offer equally potent UV protection, waterproof benefits, and even resistance to scratching.

• Drying Time – Are you working with a severely limited timeframe and need to complete coats within a day? You may want to consider varnishes that dry faster like water-based spar urethane since these can dry in only a few hours. Most spar varnishes require a whole day of waiting to apply coats, assuming climate conditions are optimal.
• Ease of Use – To ensure you won’t end up throwing away your money, don’t ignore how easy or hard a specific varnish is typically applied.
• Shelf Life – It won’t hurt to pay attention to how long a specific can of varnish will last while in storage.
• Gloss – This is admittedly a largely subjective factor, but if you’re opting for high-gloss varnish, it’s almost always the one with the best durability. However, do you like your wood to be extra shiny? There are semi-gloss and satin finishes that are just as attractive, if not more, especially when used on anything wood that is below deck.

We also need to discuss the possibility of a varnish yellowing or darkening the wood that it is applied to. Sometimes, the darkening could be due to the UV additive or tint used; thus, making it unavoidable unless you opt for a different varnish brand altogether.

As for yellowing, there are ways to avoid it. I shall discuss it below, but sometimes, it’s due to the actual product as well, especially if they are clear, alkyd, or oil-based. It’s not an absolute thing, though, and there are products that prove to be exceptions to this rule.

You’ll hear a lot of experienced boaters recommending brands like Epifanes, TotalBoat, McCloskey, and Rust-Oleum. I agree with them because, to me, these brands can easily meet the standards of high-quality marine varnish. Each one has qualities where they serve to shine better, and the reviews I outlined above should give you a good idea about what they are.

Nonetheless, I’m not completely discounting the other brands I included here. I daresay that they’re just as good as those top-dog brands, especially in essential factors like durability and a long-lasting aesthetically appealing finish. Moreover, I find them to be valuable substitutes if any go-to brand happens to be unavailable and won’t even hesitate to pick them as the main option based on certain requirements of a finishing job.

Incidentally, you may have noticed that I didn’t include ease of cleaning when discussing these brands. That’s because most, if not all, of them are very easy to clean for me. At least, for the almost uniform smooth finishes that I get out of them.

There’s not much, really. When boaters use the term “spar varnish”, chances are, they’re also automatically referring to marine varnish. You can also see this in how brands usually label their products in online stores, like Sherwin Williams marine spar varnish or TotalBoat gleam marine spar varnish, to cite a few examples. If you’re using spar varnish, it’s almost always marine-grade.

Both terms give the ready connotation of finishes that provide heavy-duty protection against the harsh elements usually involved when boating, fishing, and cruising. You’ll find plenty of oil-based spar varnishes (i.e. tung oil, alkyd resin, etc.) that are imbued with additives that serve to accentuate the natural beauty of the wood, as well as solvents and other chemicals that promote fast drying and add UV protection.

Since certain varnishes have different components or are more natural or synthetic, it’s best to stick to the manufacturer’s instructions when applying any kind of varnish. However, we can’t deny that most projects share a few essential guidelines, such as the following:

• Preparation usually entails sanding between coats. The most ideal to use for this purpose is 180 to 220-grit sandpaper or even a Scotchbrite pad will do sometimes. Take note that some varnish products can do without sanding, especially for the initial coat. But, this would still depend on whether you’re applying it to a bare wooden surface or if it’s been previously coated before. If it’s the latter, then you’d most likely need to sand it first.
• Clean the dust that forms after sanding using a clean rag. I wipe it down further with a tack rag to ensure no dust or debris would still be present the moment I start applying coats.
• As for temperature and humidity, it’s best to apply any kind of marine varnish if the temperatures during the entire day don’t go above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity should be 50 to 60% or even slightly lower than that. I found that the smartest route to take is to be patient and wait for the right climate before going ahead with a project, especially if you know that it will take a number of days to finish.
• Thinning depends a lot on the product. If it’s too thick, it’s often necessary to do this, even if the brand doesn’t mention it in the instructions. The safest route for this is to follow a 2:1 varnish to thinner ratio. Mineral spirits are recommended.
• I also recommend taking the time to strain the varnish using a paint strainer to ensure a smooth finish. Sometimes, this can make all the difference in the world in getting the kind of finish that any boater would be proud of.
• As for applying coats, there are certain products that require you to start from the middle so that you can ensure an even coating. Others would caution about wiping too much, while many suggest, as is often the case in spar oil-based urethane, to make thin coats for every layer.
• Bristle brushes and badger-hair brushes are often the standard tool for application. But, again, there are products that are easier to apply with a spray or roller.

Most marine varnishes typically last for at least 2 years. There are brands that have a minimum of 3 years before they begin showing signs of damage. I can attest to marine varnish that keeps its shine and protection for 5 years, and I’ve highlighted the exact products that can achieve that.

Ultimately, if you keep its sun exposure to a minimum, you’re guaranteed to extend any kind of varnish’s lifespan. I’ve noticed that varnished fixtures and furniture in my yacht tend to last significantly longer than the ones that are exposed to sunlight extensively, regardless of the varnish’s UV-protective capabilities.

This is almost always the case considering this type of varnish is marine-grade. Most experts attribute this to spar varnish’s flexibility (i.e. its ability to expand and contract with the wood). However, equally many attribute it to the simple fact that spar varnish is mainly oil-based, allowing to wick away moisture with ease.

Now, do you have a good idea of what the best marine varnish brings to the table? With all things considered, the best parting advice I can give is to not hesitate to try out the options available to you. Sure, there will always be no-brainer choices, but it didn’t take long for me to find out that it pays to try out other brands because they may give your boat the kind of shine or longevity you’ve always wanted.

“I am James Harvey – founder of Boating Basics Online. It is established with the drive to help out first-time boaters, which are those desiring to explore their way through the water. So if you are new to boating, start from here with me. “

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Everything you need to know about Yacht Varnish

Applying Ronseal Trade Yacht Varnish to wooden garden features is a fantastic way of prolonging them. It can be used on all smooth planed exterior wood and offers incredibly tough protection against damage and decay – whilst still highlighting the timber’s natural colour thanks to its clear formula.

The appetite for incorporating natural materials throughout the home and garden is on the up – and as such, we have seen a rise in the number of people interested in garden features such as wooden pergolas, hardwood furniture and rustic wooden details.

When speaking to customers about their ideal garden designs, don’t shy away from incorporating these wooden elements for fear of them warping or decaying in the unpredictable British weather. With the correct preparation, timber can offer the durable and long-lasting finish customers are after.

What is Yacht Varnish?

Yacht Varnish is an incredibly durable solvent-based varnish that was originally used to on boats to protect the wood and prevent it from decaying over time. Nowadays, this type of product is more commonly used for exterior household projects, when you are looking to give timber a high-gloss finish that lasts.

Once applied, Ronseal Trade Yacht Varnish is tough and will protect timber against everyday knocks and scratches as well as harsh weather conditions to prevent cracking, peeling and blistering. What’s more, it is formulated to protect the wood from the damaging effects of the sun and prevent it from discolouring, fading or greying over time. This makes it ideal for features such as wooden pergolas, doors and window frames that are exposed to the elements all year round and ensures that they will last for years to come.

Why choose Ronseal Trade?

Cleverly, Ronseal Trade Yacht Varnish has been formulated to offer the excellent weatherproofing and durability you would expect from a solvent-based varnish but without the long re-coat times. Impressively, it offers around half the re-coat time of a typical solvent-based varnish; it is rainproof in just four hours and it can be re-coated in as little as eight hours. This means that time on site and disruption to the customer can be reduced.

To find out more about Ronseal Trade Yacht Varnish click here .

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Before the wood on your boat was processed and placed there, it was insulated from the elements by a thick coat of bark. But what’s protecting it now? An old coat of varnish that’s past its prime? Unprotected wood’s natural oils can carry it for only so long before the ravages of people, pollution, and pounding weather cause dulling, dirtying, and delamination.

We all want good-looking wood on our boats. The choice of whether and what to use to preserve and protect it depends on the type, location, color, depth, and gloss you’re going for, and how much time and money you want to spend on the project.

Varnishing is the most common way to finish wood, but others include applying teak oils, teak sealers, and synthetic marine wood finishes. If you decide to use varnish, we’ll give you some great tips. And you’ll learn about our new varnish (TotalBoat Lust) that lets you DIY in just over a DAY (!) to get a super glossy brightwork shine that requires no between-coat sanding.

Choosing a Wood Finish

•      Teak Oils and Teak Sealers
•      Synthetic Finishes
•      Varnish

Supplies for Varnishing

Surface prep for varnishing, best conditions for varnishing, easy techniques and expert tips for applying varnish.

•      Thinning Varnish
•      Applying Varnish Like a Pro

Caring for Varnish Brushes

Maintaining the varnished surfaces on your boat.

Teak Oils and Teak Sealers

The main reason woods like teak, mahogany, and white oak are so often used on boats is because they’re dense, strong, and decay-resistant. Which makes them durable enough to withstand the harsh conditions they’re exposed to at sea. But prolonged exposure to salt, sun, water, and pollution without protection can eventually break down even naturally oily woods like teak, turning them from golden and glowing to gray and weathered, and even causing structural damage.

Oils such as tung and linseed can be rubbed on clean teak to give it a richer appearance, restoring the protective oil and natural, subtle golden hue. Sealers are also easy to apply to clean teak, but last a little longer than oils. They seal the oils and resins in the wood, sealing out the moisture. Traditionally, sealers were applied to wood that retained some of its oil content, or that had some type of wood oil applied first.

TotalBoat Teak Oilis easy to apply with a brush, rag, or roller, and penetrates deeply into the grain to preserve healthy wood, or to begin to restore damaged, brittle wood. In cases where better penetration and protection is needed, apply ourTotalBoat Danish Teak Sealer instead to oil and seal the wood, and impart a light golden color. It’s as easy to apply as Teak Oil, and it’ll seal out moisture while sealing the beneficial oil in the wood.

We recommend using the Teak Oil for initial rejuvenation and maintenance coats. In cases where the wood needs better oil penetration initially and some degree of mildew protection, apply the Danish Teak Sealer first, then use it for maintenance coats. Both the Teak Oil and the Danish Teak Sealer will need maintenance coats every couple of months, depending on the amount of exposure to the sun’s UV radiation. It’s not necessary to apply Teak Oil and follow with an application of Danish Teak Sealer.

Pros and Cons of Using Teak Oils and Sealers

• Produce the most natural-looking results.
• Easiest finishes to apply; least time and effort.
• Relatively inexpensive way to restore wood’s natural beauty and color.
• Produce an appealing, matte finish.
• Great for interior and exterior hard and soft woods.
• Finish doesn’t last as long as varnish.
• Not as much protection against the elements as varnish and synthetic finishes.

Synthetic Finishes

Commonly referred to as marine wood finishes, these are an easier, faster alternative to applying varnish, and yield similar UV protection. They can be used on all types of wood, not just teak and mahogany, to bring out the unique tones in each.

For interior and exterior use, these finishes are flexible and their synthetic pigments provide protection from harsh UV rays. They’re also breathable, which means moisture permeates freely, evaporates quickly, and doesn’t get trapped beneath the finish to do damage.

In the past, synthetic finishes were only available in satin, so using them meant sacrificing high gloss and depth for convenience. Now you can get the gloss of a varnish and the ease of applying paint with TotalBoat Marine Wood Finish . It comes in natural teak, satin, and gloss finishes.

For glossy brightwork that’s easier to maintain, just apply the gloss finish over the natural teak or satin finishes.

Pros and Cons of Using Synthetic Finishes for Marine Wood

Varnish is the most popular finish because it puts the beauty of the wood grain front and center, producing the highest gloss and greatest depth. It’s also the most durable finish, shielding wood from all the things it’s exposed to on a boat–grease, dirt, oil, water, salt, sun, and pollution.

Traditional varnishes, such as TotalBoat Gleam , are formulated to expand with the wood (think spars and brightwork) as it flexes with movement, or changes in temperature and humidity. Traditional spar varnish is applied in several coats, with sanding required between coats to form a mechanical bond for the next coat to grip onto.

In contrast, modern hard-finish varnishes are not as flexible, but they produce a hard coating that is better than spar varnish at resisting abrasion, chemicals, and UV light. There are modern one- and two-part formulas, with the two-part formulas offering the best UV and abrasion resistance.

The best news is that, until now, getting a super high-gloss brightwork finish took a week or so of applying multiple coats of varnish, and sanding between each coat–whether you used a spar or a polyurethane varnish. But with TotalBoat Lust you can overcoat in as little as 1 hour, and apply up to five coats on the first day, let dry overnight, apply a final coat on the second day, and that’s it. No sanding between coats, either. It’s an easier, faster way to get a durable, super high-gloss finish with exceptional UV protection.

Pros and Cons of Using Varnish

• Achieves the highest grain clarity and DOI (distinctness of image, or gloss).
• Restores wood’s natural beauty and color.
• Offers the best UV protection and has the greatest longevity.
• Excellent durability, with exceptional resistance to oils, dirt, and grease.
• Rapid-overcoating option and no sanding between coats with TotalBoat Lust produces maximum shine in record time.
• Greatest expenditure of money, time, materials, and effort.
• Regular maintenance is necessary.
• Certain products require sanding between coats and longer times to recoat.
• Does not have great impact strength. Commonly delaminates when dented.

Tools for Applying Varnish

Most one- and two-part varnishes can be applied using a brush, a foam roller and brush (roll & tip method), or some type of sprayer (airless, HVLP, etc.). There’s even varnish that comes in an aerosol can! Setting up and adjusting spray equipment takes time, as does cleaning the equipment. But you don’t need professional spray equipment to get professional results.

A good, natural bristle brush yields excellent results. We recommend getting the best quality brush you can afford, using it just for varnishing, cleaning it properly, and it’ll last for years to help you maintain your beautifully varnished finishes. On large areas, consider the roll & tip method: Use a high-density, lint-free foam roller to apply the varnish, and have someone follow behind you with a wide-bristle brush to even out the finish, removing any small bubbles introduced by the roller.

What Type of Varnish Brush Should I Use?

Using the right brush is one of the most important ways to get a smooth, beautiful finish. The other is having the right technique. But all the technique in the world won’t help if you don’t have the right brush. Try painting your house with a push broom. You’ll get paint on the surface, but it won’t look good. The same holds true for applying finish coats of varnish with a foam brush, because even though foam brushes don’t leave brush marks, they tend to introduce more bubbles. Small bubbles can be sanded out of build coats, but not finish coats.

To keep costs down, it’s okay to use a foam brush for the sealer and build coats, but a soft-bristled badger hair brush is the best brush for finish coats because it lays the varnish down smoothly with no bubbles or brush marks. Badger hair brushes are also best for removing air bubbles when you’re rolling and tipping.

Other Equipment Needed for Varnishing

• Heat gun or chemical stripper for removing old varnish. Our TotalBoat TotalStrip paint and varnish remover is easy to apply, odor-free, biodegradable, can strip up to 25 layers in a single application, requires no acid wash neutralization, and cleans up easily with just plain water.
• Sandpaper – From 80 to 320 grit
• Sanding blocks – Choose from a variety of commercially available hard and soft sanding blocks for different purposes when sanding by hand. For example, a soft sanding block aids in sanding curves and contours; a hard sanding block is best for sanding straight surfaces.
• Scrapers for removing old varnish. Pull scrapers offer the best results with the least amount of effort and gouge potential.
• Masking tape – use a high-quality masking tape that removes cleanly to protect non-varnished surfaces. For taping curved surfaces, use a flexible tape that’s durable enough to snap a really nice line.
• Clean, lint-free wiping rags and denatured alcohol for cleaning wood surfaces and removing any dirt and oils.
• Tack cloth – tacky cloth for wiping down the wood before applying varnish. Removes any lingering dust.
• Synthetic mesh strainers for filtering contaminants when pouring varnish from the can into your paint pot.
• Optional items – Random-orbit sander to expedite sanding large areas, and a vacuum cleaner to help remove any sanding residue before wiping down with a tack cloth.

Any blemishes that aren’t fixed before you apply varnish will be amplified by the new varnish after it cures. Ever paint a wall, thinking that the thickness of the coating would fill in and cover any small scratches and dents only to find that it actually made them more pronounced after painting? Same thing happens with varnish, so first, be sure to fix any little dings, nicks, discolored wood, and shore up any soft wood to prepare for varnishing.

Cleaning and sanding are also very important. Teak must be cleaned, sanded smooth, and wiped clean again before applying varnish to ensure the best bond, finish, and longevity. Sure this prep takes time, but skimp on this stage, and it’ll show. Take the extra time now to prepare the surface properly and you’ll spend a lot of time admiring it later.

Varnish that’s old, dull, flaking, or blistering needs to be removed completely before new coats are applied. If you use a chemical varnish remover, position polyethylene sheeting so it covers adjacent areas that the varnish remover will damage. Use a quick-release masking tape to hold the cover in place. Also, follow the label directions carefully because some strippers are more toxic than others and require you to apply an acid neutralizer after you remove the chemical stripper.

For a chemical-free alternative, a heat gun is also very effective at stripping old varnish, especially on irregular or curved areas. Take care not to expose fiberglass to the excessive heat generated by the heat gun.

For the best result, it’s important to keep the varnish bubbling up consistently by holding the gun at the same distance from the surface while scraping. Keeping your blade sharp will also make the job easier and faster.

Teak and other woods must be (unavoidable cliche alert) "squeaky" clean before any type of wood finish is applied–especially varnish. Cleaning teak brings out the grain and creates the best mechanical bond for your first coat of varnish.

When using teak cleaners, it’s important to use a stiff bristle brush and scrub across the grain. Scrubbing with the grain can push dirt deeper into the grain, instead of removing it. After a thorough rinsing, allow the wood to dry completely before sanding.

Sanding is another must-do before varnishing. It can remove any residual old varnish, level out the surface to make it smooth, and even out the color of the wood. The most important thing to remember is to sand in the direction of the grain using the appropriate grit sandpaper for the task.

Before you start sanding, take time to assess the condition of the surface to determine what grit types of sandpaper you’ll need, and whether you can accomplish the sanding by hand, or whether you may want to use a random-orbit sander. If you do use a random-orbit sander, don’t push too hard, and keep it moving to prevent gashes and uneven areas.

Use appropriate masking materials such as polyethylene sheeting and masking tape to protect any surface that abuts the surface to be varnished. This includes hardware (think oarlocks and cleats) which is sometimes not practical to remove.

There are various types of masking tape for different purposes. Some flex better for use on curves; others can stay on the surface longer and remove cleanly without leaving residue. After choosing the right tape, take your time to place it carefully without wrinkles or gaps.

The final step before applying the varnish is to ensure the dry surface is completely free of any residual dust or contaminants, such as oil from fingerprints, dirt, or grease. Dampen a lint-free rag or cheesecloth with mineral spirits or denatured alcohol, wipe the surface, and let the solvent flash (dry).

Varnishing isn’t complicated, it just takes time and some effort to get it right. But the head-turning, high-gloss brightwork eye candy results will be worth it. After all the painstaking surface prep you just completed, resist the urge now to dive in and begin varnishing unless the conditions are just right.

Ideally, start varnishing on a dry, clear day, in the morning if possible. And stay out of the wind and direct sunlight, which can cause wrinkling and uneven drying. Better yet, apply varnish indoors, with adequate ventilation. And pay special attention to the varnish manufacturer’s recommendations for temperature and humidity.

Thinning Varnish

Varnish can be thinned by adding an amount of solvent to the varnish to reduce its viscosity and improve the brushing ability and flow quality. Be sure to use the solvent specified by the manufacturer. Certain solvents will be better for warm or colder conditions; others are used specifically for brushing or spray applications.

The first coat of varnish is typically a “sealer” coat, which is varnish that has been thinned substantially, so it sinks into the wood grain. Straight varnish is too thick to do that effectively. The amount of thinner recommended for the sealer coat depends on the varnish, so read directions carefully.

For example, a traditional varnish, such as TotalBoat Gleam , is typically thinned up to 50% for the first coat. In contrast, TotalBoat Lust , with its 1-hour overcoating capabilities is thinned 100% for the first coat only, to achieve maximum penetration into the wood grain.

The sealer coat is followed by a succession of “build” coats, before the final coats are applied. The build coats are thinned as needed to make the varnish lie down easily and level out smoothly. More thinning may be necessary in warmer, more humid conditions. Take care not to add too much thinner, as this will affect cure times and gloss levels. The final coats of varnish are usually applied at full strength, with no thinner added.

Applying Varnish Like a Pro

• It’s important to keep as much dust as possible out of your work area while varnishing. Vacuum the work area first, then use a water-filled spray bottle to spray water on the floor or ground to keep the dust down.
• If varnishing indoors, be sure you have adequate lighting so you can see skips, or holidays. A flashlight beam aimed horizontally across the surface will make any skips stand out.
• If varnishing outdoors, avoid working in direct sunlight, or if temperatures exceed the manufacturer’s maximum recommendation. Also, time it so a fresh coat has adequate time to skin over before nightfall comes, and damaging dew sets in.
• Bubbles are bad–avoid them by not stirring aggressively or shaking the can of varnish.
• Filter the varnish by pouring it through a synthetic mesh strainer into a separate pot or container. Do not apply the varnish directly from the can. Pour only the amount of varnish you need at the time; it’s not recommended to pour extra varnish back into the can, to avoid contamination.
• If brushing, dip less than half the length of the bristles into the varnish, so you get more varnish at the tip, where it’s needed.
• If brushing or rolling & tipping, apply varnish in the direction of the grain.

• Keep a wet edge to avoid brush marks by brushing from the new area into the area just varnished.
• If you’re seeing bubbles in the varnished surface while brushing or rolling & tipping, make a final pass with the brush very slowly over the area, using very light pressure. This action will remove the bubbles.
• Don’t apply the varnish thicker than the manufacturer recommends because it will skin over on the surface, trapping solvents underneath. The varnish will not cure properly, and can stay soft.
• Keep an eye out for drips on vertical surfaces.
• If a small bug or dust speck gets stuck in the varnish before it tacks over, diving in after it and digging it out with your fingers will only make it worse. Leave it where it lands and sand it out between coats.
• Sanding between coats : After a coat of varnish has dried, if the previous coat looks really good , use a ScotchBrite pad (instead of sandpaper) to scuff the surface lightly. If the previous coat has slight imperfections , sand lightly with 220-320 grit paper to even it out and allow the next coat of varnish to achieve a sound mechanical bond with the surface. Sand only as much as you need to. Use a gentle, even motion to remove any peaks or bugs, and most importantly, to avoid sanding through the previous coat. After sanding, and before applying the next coat , wipe with a lint-free rag coated in mineral spirits to remove dust, and allow the solvent to flash.
• Storing brushes between coats : Wrap varnish brushes in plastic wrap and place in the freezer so you don’t have to clean them as often. This solution is only good for a couple of hours or days, though, depending on the varnish.

High-quality varnish brushes can be cleaned and reused for years, off-setting their initial high cost. After the brush is cleaned and spun dry, help to maintain the original shape of the bristles by storing the brush in its original package. Here’s a simple way to clean and maintain a varnish brush.

Regular maintenance is key in keeping a varnished finish looking fresh and flawless. The major causes of damage are the sun’s ultraviolet rays, water, and abrasion.

Even the UV-blocking agents in quality varnishes will eventually break down. As UV light penetrates to the base coats they start to deteriorate, causing gloss varnish to lose its brilliant, wet look.

Eventually, the varnish separates from the wood, growing ugly delamination blisters which can only be removed by stripping the finish and starting from bare wood.

Spare yourself this aggravation with a little annual maintenance that requires scuff-sanding back the top layer of varnish, wiping the surface clean, and applying a coat or two of varnish to add depth and maintain the UV protection.

A greater potential for sun damage in certain geographic locations, such as the Caribbean, may make it necessary for this maintenance task to be done more than once a season. A good way to tell if you need to re-coat is when the surface begins to lose its water-beading ability.

And don’t forget your interior wood. Maintaining interior varnish will not only keep it looking sharp, but will make it easier to keep clean.

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What’s the Best Varnish for Your Yacht?

Looking for the  best yacht insurance ? Buy your  sailing yacht insurance  online at Admiral Marine, or contact our expert team for advice.

Varnishing your yacht is an essential part of its care and maintenance. The benefits are twofold: yacht varnish protects your boat from the elements, while also giving it a beautiful shiny finish. But with so many different yacht and marine varnishes to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your boat.

In this article, we’ll run through some of the most popular types of yacht varnish on the market to help you choose the right option.

What is Yacht Varnish?

Yacht varnish is an extremely durable solvent-based coating that is designed to protect the wood that yachts are made of and stop it decaying over time. Most varnishes are made up of a penetrating oil, resin and solvent. Although most yacht varnish is applied with a brush, it is possible to buy yacht varnish spray.

Different Types of Yacht Varnish Finish

There are many different types of finish to choose from, so you’ll need to know a little about them to decide which is the best yacht varnish for you.

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Yacht Varnish Brands

There are various brands that produce yacht varnish. Here are a couple of the most popular:

Screwfix Yacht Varnish

Screwfix is a retailer in the UK that sells a variety of products, including hardware and building supplies. They may carry different brands and types of yacht varnish. Yacht varnish provides resistance to water, UV rays, and other environmental elements. Yacht varnishes often contain additives to enhance their durability and performance in marine conditions.

Ronseal Yacht Varnish

A durable, long-lasting marine varnish for wood that flexes with the movement of the wood and resists peeling and cracking. This varnish is slightly more pricey than the Screwfix varnish, but gets great reviews. You can buy the Ronseal brand of yacht varnish in B&Q and other retailers.

How to Varnish Your Yacht

Varnishing a yacht is fairly straightforward, if a little time-consuming. First you’ll need to carefully sand down the entire surface that you want to varnish to get it looking smooth. Then use a soft brush to wipe off any excess dust and debris, since you don’t want it getting trapped in the varnish.

Finally, use a paintbrush to coat the yacht with varnish. Leave it to dry for the recommended amount of time on the tin, then apply additional coats as required. Always check the instructions of your varnish type, and if unsure consult with an expert before starting.

Yacht varnish is solvent-based and contains toxic chemicals, which means it should not be used for varnishing animal enclosures (for example, rabbit hutches or reptile enclosures).

• What is yacht varnish used for? Yacht varnish is used for sealing and protecting wood on boats and yachts. It is also commonly used for outdoor items such as wooden doors, window frames or pergolas.
• What type of varnish is yacht varnish? Yacht varnish is a solvent-based outdoor varnish that is extremely durable. It is usually made up of tung oil and polyurethane resin. 
• What is the best varnish to use on a boat? The type of varnish that is best for your boat will depend on the type of wood your boat is made from and the finish you are looking for. Tung oil varnish is a safe bet for most boats, or you may prefer to use a one-part polyurethane varnish for added durability.
• What is the difference between yacht varnish and outdoor varnish? In general, yacht varnish dries quicker and is designed for marine conditions, so it’s likely to be more durable than outdoor varnish. However, yacht varnish is unlikely to have an anti-slip formulation, making it unsuitable for decking around the home.

Admiral Marine is a trading name of Admiral Marine Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 306002) for general insurance business. Registered in England and Wales Company No. 02666794 at 1st Floor, One The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6DG

If you wish to register a complaint, please contact the Compliance and Training Manager on  [email protected] .  If you are unsatisfied with how your complaint has been dealt with, you may be able to refer your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).  The FOS website is  www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

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The Best Marine Varnish: Exterior Wood Finish Tests

Two-part varnishes leading in durability as long-term test reaches 24-month mark..

Like spotting land after a long passage, were glad to say that the end of our long-term exterior wood finishes test is finally on the horizon. Time, weather, and Southwest Floridas unrelenting sunshine have clearly taken their toll on the test panels over the last 24 months, and as the evaluation moves into its third year, only 19 of the original 54 test products will continue on in our survival-of-the fittest finish matchup. Given that most wood coatings are rarely expected to last longer than two years in the marine environment-particularly in super-sunny locales-its no surprise that we’ve seen more significant changes in the coatings in the last six months than we had in previous checkups.

Our search for the ideal wood finish-relatively easy to apply, easy to maintain, lasts multiple seasons, and is affordable-began in 2007 when we took a look at the different types of exterior wood finishes on the market, their pros and cons, and how easy they were to apply ( one-part varnishes , August 2007; varnish alternatives , October 2007; two-part varnishes , December 2007; teak oils and stains , April 2008). Launched in 2008, the long-term panel test aimed to determine which type of coating offers the best and longest protection and which products stand out among their peers.

We hope the comparison enables readers to decide which finish best matches their own taste, potential labor investment, and wood protection needs.

We’ve rated the test products every six months and reported on the coatings durability in the May 2009 issue ( six-month checkup ), December 2009 issue ( 12 months ), and January 2011 ( 18 months ) issues. Here, we offer the two-year report on the survivors.

How We’re Testing the Marine Varnishes

Testers applied dozens of exterior wood finishes (22 one-part varnishes, six two-part varnishes, 18 synthetics and satins/varnish alternatives, and eight teak oils and sealers) to small panels of bare solid teak. Each was assigned a number for blind judging and was applied per manufacturers instructions. If makers gave a range for the number of coats to apply, testers went with the minimum.

Initial testing rated each products ease of application and original gloss and reflective qualities. In the summer of 2008, the test panels were mounted on a wooden rack (aka: The Rack), which was set up in an unobstructed area on the roof of the PS workshop in Sarasota, Fla., to ensure that all panels received the same amount of weather exposure. The top part of each panel was covered to create a control area that testers used for comparison over time. Every six months, we disassembled The Rack and rated the panels on how well their coating integrity, gloss, and color had fared over time with constant exposure to the elements.

The test was designed as an endurance test, a fight to the finish, so we have not done any maintenance coats or touch-ups to the test panels. These products can be expected to have much longer lifespans if they are regularly maintained.

How We’re Rating the Marine Varnishes

Testers rate each panel on three long-term performance criteria: coating integrity, gloss retention, and color retention. Excellent and Good coating integrity ratings mean that no maintenance is needed; a Fair indicates that its time for a maintenance coat; Poor means the fat lady has sung, and the coating would need to be removed and re-applied. Excellent ratings are given only to those with an uncompromised coating. This time, panels with Poor and Fair- coating integrity were pulled from the test.

Color and gloss retention ratings are relative to the panels original finish. Initial gloss and ease of application are relative to the field within each coating category; these were assigned immediately after the panels were coated.

It was tougher to pick Recommended coatings at the two-year mark, as most wood finishes aren’t intended to go that long without maintenance. One-part varnishes that earned PSs recommendation this go-round were rated Fair for coating integrity (none rated better than Fair ) and had no Poor ratings. Recommended two-part systems rated Good or better for coating integrity with no Poor ratings. No varnish alternatives or teak oils/sealers were recommended at two years.

VALUE GUIDE: Varnish Alternatives

PRODUCT	PRICE	AFTER 2 YEARS COAT INTEGRITY	GLOSS RETENTION	COLOR RETENTION	AFTER 1 YEAR COAT INTEGRITY	GLOSS RETENTION	COLOR RETENTION	INITIAL RATINGS EASE OF APPLICATION	GLOSS/ FINISH NOTES
Epifanes Rapidclear	$26/ quart	Poor	Poor	Fair	Fair	Good	Fair	Excellent	Clear/satin
Interlux Sikkens Cetol Marine (alone)	$25/ quart	Fair	N/A	Fair+	Excellent	N/A	Good	Excellent	Opaque amber/ matte
Interlux Sikkens Cetol with Marine Gloss	$25/ quart (Gloss $28)	Fair+	Poor	Good	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Opaque amber; clear overcoat/ Satin
Interlux Sikkens Cetol Marine Light (alone)	$25/ quart	Fair	N/A	Fair	Good+	N/A	Fair	Excellent	Opaque light amber/ matte
Interlux Sikkens Cetol Marine Light with Marine Gloss	$25/ quart (Gloss: $28)	Fair+	Poor	Good	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Opaque amber; clear overcoat/ satin
Interlux Sikkens Cetol Natural Teak with Marine Gloss	$26/ quart (Gloss: $28)	Fair-	Fair	Poor	Good	Good	Fair	Good	Golden-translucent, clear overcoat/ satin
Le Tonkinois Bio Impression with Vernis	N/A	Fair	Poor	Fair	Good	Fair	Fair	Good	Warm, dark amber/ high gloss
West Marine WoodPro Plus Semi-Gloss	$30/ quart	Poor	Poor	Fair	Fair	Fair	Fair	Good	Clear/ satin
WoodPlus Marine Natural	$21/ quart	Fair-	Poor	Poor	Good	Good	Fair	Excellent	Reddish brown/ low gloss
Ace Spar Varnish Gloss 16373	$13/ quart	Fair-	Fair-	Good	Good	Good	Good	Excellent	Good
Coelan (with primer)	$145/ kit	Fair-	Fair	Fair-	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent
Deft Defthane Poly Satin	$13/ quart	Fair-	Poor	Fair-	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent	Fair
Detco Crystal	$41/ quart	Good-	Fair	Fair-	Good	Good	Good	Fair	Good
Epifanes Clear High Gloss	$27/ quart	Fair-	Fair-	Good	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent
Epifanes Wood Finish Gloss	$36/ quart	Fair	Poor	Fair	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent
HMG K Type Varnish	$30/ liter	Poor	Poor	Poor	Excellent	Good	Fair	Good	Excellent
Interlux Goldspar Cllear	N/A	Fair+	Fair-	Fair+	Good	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent
Interlux Jet Speed	N/A	Fair	Poor	Fair	Fair	Fair	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Interlux Schooner	$23/ quart	Fair+	Fair-	Poor	Good+	Good	Fair	Good	Good
Le Tonkinois No. 1	$35/ liter	Fair-	Poor	Fair	Fair	Fair	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Le Tonkinois Vernis	$33/ liter	Fair+	Fair-	Fair+	Excellent	Fair	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Minwax In/Outdoor Helmsman Spar Urethane	$17/ quart	Fair	Fair	Poor	Good	Good	Fair	Excellent	Excellent
Pettit Bak V-Spar 2053	N/A	Fair-	Poor	Poor	Fair	Poor	Fair	Excellent	Excellent
Pettit Z-Spar 2015 Flagship	$30/ quart	Fair	Fair	Fair	Good	Excellent	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Pettit Z-spar Captain's Ultra Clear 2067	$30/Quart	Fair+	Fair	Fair	Excellent	Good	Fair	Excellent	Excellent
Pettit Z-Spar Captain’s 1015 Traditional Amber	$28/ quart	Fair-	Poor	Fair	Excellent	Good+	Good	Good	Good
Pettit Z-Spar Captain’s EZ Care 1016 (Woolsey)	N/A	Fair	Fair-	Good	Good	Good	Good	Excellent	Good
West Marine 5-Star Premium	$32/ quart	Fair-	Poor	Fair	Excellent	Good	Fair	Good	Excellent
TWO-PART SYSTEMS
Bristol Finish, Traditional Amber	$70/ kit (1 quart)	Poor	Fair	Good	Fair	Excellent	Good	Excellent	Excellent
HMG Acrythane XSC	$45/ liter	Fair	Good	Fair+	Good+	Excellent	Good	Good	Good
Honey Teak with overcoat	$2/ sq. ft.	Fair-	Good	Fair	Fair	Good	Good	Excellent	Excellent
Interlux Perfection	$60/ kit (1 quart)	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent
Nautiking NautiThane	$120/ kit (1 quart)	Good	Good-	Good	Excellent	Excellent	Good	Excellent	Good
Smith Five-Year Clear	N/A	Good	Good	Fair	Good+	Excellent	Good	Good	Excellent

What We Found

What a difference a season makes! With the exception of a few two-part products, the test coatings had lost their sparkle at the two-year mark. Ratings slipped across the board. The UV abuse had obviously taken its toll, sucking the life out of most of the coatings, particularly the clear finishes.

Those clinging to life with Fair coating integrity are still protecting the wood, but they’ve lost their looks. In the real world, all of the one-part varnish and varnish alternative test panels would be due for a maintenance coat, and some-like HMG K Type Varnish, West Marine WoodPro Plus (rebranded Epifanes Rapidclear), and Ace Spar Varnish-would be overdue.

The biggest overall decline was within the one-part varnish test group: Not a single one rated better than Fair for coating integrity or gloss retention, and nearly half of the test field was retired after this rating round. Just six months before, eight of the 19 products rated Good for coating integrity and six rated Good for gloss retention. In 12 months, seven dropped from an Excellent coating integrity to a Fair.

The one-part varnishes offering the most protection after two years are Detco Crystal, Le Tonkinois Vernis, and Pettits Z-Spar Captains 2067. However, their extended protection comes with tradeoffs: Detco rated only Fair for application, Le Tonks gloss started to slip after one year, and Pettits 2067 started losing its original color after 12 months.

One hardware store varnish has surprisingly held its own over the long haul: Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane. At half the cost of the Recommended one-part varnishes, Minwax slacked in the color retention department, but it has proven its multi-season durability.

Four of the nine varnish alternatives have been voted off The Rack after two years, and none performed well enough to earn our recommendation for two-year wood protection.

The Cetol products are still at the head of the pack, albeit a somewhat mangy-looking pack. The cloudy, opaque look of the Cetol Marine and Marine Light products may not appeal to everyone, but the fact they’ve maintained their color for more than a year is a good example that higher-solids finishes tend to offer better UV protection.

The Cetol Natural (with gloss) test panel fell from a Good coating integrity six months ago to being dropped from testing. Its performance mirrors what we’ve seen in the field: Give it a little loving once a year with a scrubby pad and a fresh coat, and it’ll last the long haul.

Its taken two years, but the two-part varnishes are finally starting to show their age. Surprisingly, the first products to be dropped from this group are two that performed well in past PS tests: Bristol Finish and Honey Teak. This is likely because the life of a wood finish in Florida is always going to be shorter than in our past test locales in New England.

The other two-parts are still holding up well, with Interlux Perfection and Nautiking Nautithane offering uncompromised protection and better-than-expected gloss after 24 months. Perfection has been reformulated since the test began and is now sold as Perfection Plus.

The temporarily discontinued (since 2009) Smiths Five Year Clear has also proven to be a top-notch finish, but its not available at this time.

While HMG Acrythane XSC didn’t earn our Recommendation this time, it was a top 18-month finish, it still looks good, and it costs less than the Nautithane.

Conclusions About Exterior Varnishes

After two years of testing, we’ve come to accept that perhaps there’s no Holy Grail of exterior wood finishes. It would appear, unfortunately, that we can’t have it all: easy to apply, easy to maintain, long-lasting protection, and a budget-friendly price tag. The reality is that, like much in life, wood protection is all about compromise and balancing your needs with your wants.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and the boat owner who finds gratification in the wet, glossy look of a two-part varnish borne of painstaking preparation and careful application will weigh our test data much differently than the one who regards brightwork maintenance as a masochistic endeavor. For the latter, we recommend seeking out a varnish alternative (easy to apply, easy to maintain) that suits your tastes. With modest maintenance, the Cetol products with gloss overcoats have proven to be the most durable.

For areas where slippery-when-wet coatings wont do, Cetol Natural (without gloss overcoat) or our top-pick teak oil, Star brites Tropical Teak Sealer (classic teak) should be considered. The Star brite will need to be reapplied every three or four months.

If you’re looking for a harder, more abrasion-resistant finish that’ll make it past the year mark, check out the top one-part varnishes like Detco Crystal or Pettits Z-Spar Captains 2067. Boat owners in sailing areas that see less sunshine than our Florida test site should also consider Pettits Flagship 2015 or Captains 1015. One-part varnishes require a little more work upfront and quick attention when they are scratched or dinged, but they also offer a more traditional, high-gloss look. The one-part varnishes in our test slipped dramatically after a year and half, so we suggest an annual maintenance coat, whether they look like they need it or not.

As this test has shown, when it comes to long-lasting protection and gloss, two-part varnishes just can’t be beat. They may be a pain to apply-and should you let the coating fail, you had better invest in a heat gun-but their durability is unmatched.

The top two-part after two years of testing was Interlux Perfection. Because we’ve not yet tested the reformulated Perfection, the top pick honors go to Nautikings Nautithane. While its price tag ($120 per quart kit) is a bit hard for most of us to swallow, Nautithane earned across-the-board Good ratings after two years.

Practical Sailor often supplements panel testing with product challenges aboard our test boats to see whether top products still earn their keep in the real world and to try out new products. Two such evaluations are our exterior wood finish tests.

In the January 2011 issue, we introduced a head-to-head matchup of varnish alternatives—market-newcomer PolyWhey from Vermont Natural Coatings versus perennial favorite Interlux’s Sikkens Cetol Natural Teak—that had been applied to our Cape Dory 25 test boat. For that test, we’ve just let nature run its course: no band-aid touchups, no maintenance coats, no freshwater rinses, no TLC at all.

Comparatively, we’ve been testing Cetol Natural aboard our Chesapeake Bay-based Union 36 test boat, where it was laid on with the Cetol gloss overcoat in 2008; in this evaluation, testers have applied annual maintenance coats and given the coating regular TLC. Here’s the latest on both of these tests:

PolyWhey vs. Cetol Death Match

In the fall of 2010, testers applied three coats of Caspian Clear PolyWhey to the coamings and companionway trim on the Cape Dory, which is sailed several times a week and lives on a mooring in Sarasota Bay, Fla. We also applied Cetol Natural to the boat’s toerail, and previously had applied it to the tiller and forward hatch trim.

PolyWhey is a unique wood finish that uses whey protein, a by-product of the cheesemaking process, as a binder. It’s touted as a more eco-friendly and more sustainable coating than petroleum-based polyurethanes, which can have up to 75 percent more volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Consistently among the top varnish alternatives in PS’s tests, Cetol Natural is not as muddy-looking as its predecessors, Cetol Marine Light and Cetol Marine—like the Caspian Clear, it allows the wood’s natural grain to show and has a low gloss.

As far as application, both the Cetol and PolyWhey are quick and easy to apply, with much shorter recoat times than hard varnishes and less (or no) sanding between coats. The main difference that we found in these two finishes was with durability.

The PolyWhey turned out to be a much softer coating than the Cetol. It held up for about two months, but after three months, it was in need of a recoat, and at six months, it needed a total takedown—and Cetol had emerged as the death-match victor.

The PolyWhey on the coaming was the first to go: Where crew backs often lean against the wood, the finish was all but gone after four months. The PolyWhey on the companionway slides held on for about that long, but by six months, they were ready for a do-over as well.

The Cetol on the toerail was in need of a few touchups after six months, mostly in areas where fenders and docklines came in contact with it. But the tiller and hatch trim were still fairly well-protected almost a year after application. Although we’d recommend a maintenance coat at this point, testers plan to see how many more months we can eek out of the coating before we reach the point of no return.

Bottom line : We applaud VNC’s efforts to offer a “green” wood finish—and their creative recycling of dairy industry “trash”—but we can’t recommend it over Cetol for an exterior coating in the marine environment.

Cetol with Overcoat

Testers applied three coats of Cetol Natural with Cetol Marine Gloss overcoat to the Union in March 2008. Once a year, we scuff it up with a 3M pad, give it a freshwater rinse, and brush on a maintenance coat.

Compared to a clear, glossy varnish, it looks decent and the maintenance regimen is more realistic for our tastes and available time. However, one downside to softer, varnish alternative coatings—even those with an overcoat—is that they don’t stand up as well as hard finishes to dings and abrasion. Example: The Union’s toerail has one place in need of touching-up where a fender line wore away the finish. (See photo above.)

Bottom line : The Cetol Natural with overcoat has held up very well. While applying the topcoat may mean added effort, both our panel tests and test-boat evaluations have shown that the coating will last much longer and need fewer bandaids if the soft Cetol is protected with the semi-hard topcoat.

Teak oils and other naturally based finishes like PolyWhey, need maintenance coats every few months. Their chemical cousins, however, like Cetol, have proven they can offer good protection with only annual nurturing and the occasional touchup.

• C-Tech Marine (Bristol)
• Deft Finishes
• Le Tonkinois
• Premapro (Coelan)
• Signature Finishes
• Smith’s Five Year Clear
• Vermont Natural Coatings
• West Marine
• Woodplus Marine

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

18 comments.

I’m surprised you didnt include Alwood from Awlgrip

Search Awlwood on the website. We have a couple reports. October 2014 (chandlery), and June 2015 issues. Download the PDFs, because the tables haven’t been loaded online yet. It is broadly comparable to Sikkens Cetol.

opps, Awlwood not alwood

All very interesting……The “bottom line” is just flush the line in fresh water.

Thank you for the great info. I am going order year of Practical Sailor.

What is your opinion of covering a 2 part varnish with a one part?

It is certainly a comprehensive test. I’ve taken the journey of sticking with one of your “good” one part varnishes, Epiphanes Wood Finish gloss 10 coats with Epiphanes final two matte finishes. I’ve been quite impressed with it over the past 8 years on both my Cape Dory Typhoon and my Alberg 30. My conclusion is, read your directions carefully and be patient through all phases of application. Teak requires a caregiver! Great read especially during this pandemic period.

Great review. Your test is useful for me because I want to buy but dont know which product is the best. I must say that I like all of those mentioned above and price is really cheap. It’s always good to hear other input.

You missed out Pettit’s Gold, a water-based varnish. I have used it, and it’s great. For long life? Too soon to tell. Cetol has mostly been a disaster, especially with the Gloss overcoat. Applying Cetol can be tantamount to vandalism.

That’s really nice post. I appreciate your skills. Thanks for sharing.

Did you continue with testing to date, I am after a product that want yellow or bloom because of constant direct sunlight. I am in the North West of Australia where the temp at it’s coolest is 30+ Celsius for a couple of months and peeks over 50 + Celsius for a lot more than the couple of cooler months.

I use Rust-Oleum 207008 Spar Varnish. So much better than those water-based varnishes. This stuff protects almost forever. We used to use this kind of spar varnish in the Navy to protect the woodwork exposed to salty air.

The Interlux Varnish became my favorite varnish on teak fixtures when I tried it out 2 years ago. This is because of the immense difference it makes in the way it lends my pulpit or anything made of teak with a sophisticated, good-as-new finish.

It’s strange that you call out Pettit Z-Spar Captains 2067 as a top performer in the conclusions, but it’s not shown in the chart. Those Pettit products that are included in the chart don’t appear to be top performers. I’m confused.

After less than a year the Bristol finish I used on my boat looks terrible and will have to be removed. The folks at Bristol are absolutely no help at all. Their disclaimer is that they know nothing about boats. I most strongly advise against using this product for marine application. I have photos taken immediately after application, two months after, and eight months after if anyone is interested. By the way, the problem manifested on well prepped old teak and well prepped new teak. Could have just been a bad batch of finish but as I said, the folks at Bristol were no help. I ADVISE AGAINST USING BRISTOL FOR MARINE APPLICATIONS

I’m certain that the analysis of marine varnish was expensive and time consuming but one area that could benefit many subscribers if it was conducted continuously. Practical Sailor is the only place that I can rely on for accurate, up-to-date information on the products I need and use.

This is an important maintenance topic to me. Maintaining brightwork is a lot of labor. This article was last updated in June 2020. I would appreciate an update. I have been using Epifanes clear high gloss varnish for the last five seasons. It gives a good finish but it needs to be touched up one a year even though my boat is under cover for six months of the year. I sail on Lake Erie.

Hi Darryl, I’ve been reading about the new clear wood finishes that are UV cured for furniture. They often topcoat with a “nano” finish. Is this new technology suitable for the marine environment? It sounds too good to be true, easy application, no waiting time, resists scratching… Thanks

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Rust-Oleum 207008 Marine Spar Varnish, Quart, Gloss Clear

Quart (Pack of 2)

Purchase options and add-ons

Brand	Rust-Oleum
Material	Plastic
Finish Type	Gloss
Compatible Material	Wood
Item Weight	1 Pounds

About this item

• not_applicable
• Made in the USA
• Ideal for use on exterior wood surfaces above the water line, including trim, railings and wood furniture
• Oil-based formula expands and contracts with changing weather conditions
• Dries to the touch in 2 hours and covers up to 150 sq. ft.
• Durable coating provides excellent resistance to UV, salt and mildew
• Crystal-clear varnish leaves a beautiful gloss finish with maximum protection
• UV resistant
• Salt and mildew resistant
• Expands and contracts with changing weather conditions
• Twice as durable as conventional wood finishes
• This item is not for sale in Catalina Island

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Customer Review: Very Good Varnish

No more skin on leftover varnish

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Product information, technical details.

Coverage	‎75-150 square foot
Recommended Uses For Product	‎Exterior
Liquid Volume	‎32 Fluid Ounces
Item Form	‎Liquid
Global Trade Identification Number	‎00020066118952
Manufacturer	‎Rust-Oleum
UPC	‎094704892634 020066118952
Part Number	‎207008
Item Weight	‎1 pounds
Product Dimensions	‎5 x 5 x 5 inches
Country of Origin	‎USA
Item model number	‎207008
Size	‎Quart
Color	‎Gloss Clear
Finish	‎Gloss
Pattern	‎Spar Varnish
Shape	‎Triangle
Item Package Quantity	‎1
Included Components	‎Rust-Oleum 207008 Marine Spar Varnish 1-Quart
Batteries Required?	‎No
Warranty Description	‎Warranty

Additional Information

ASIN	B000C011CE
Customer Reviews	4.7 out of 5 stars
Best Sellers Rank	#4,808 in Tools & Home Improvement ( ) #7 in
Date First Available	August 17, 2005

Warranty & Support

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Product Description

Rust-Oleum Marine Spar Varnish is formulated to provide superior protection against sunlight, water, sea spray and chemicals on exterior wood surfaces above the water line. The flexible coating expands and contracts with changing weather conditions in a stunning clear finish. With twice the durability as conventional wood finishes, it is the perfect top coat for your marine projects.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum Marine Spar Varnish adds a warm golden glow to enhance wood's natural beauty. It is recommended for exterior wood above the water line.

From the manufacturer

Trusted to protect valuable marine surfaces since 1921

Did you know...?

Rust-Oleum was founded by sea captain Robert Fergusson after he notice that some spilled fish oil prevented his ship from rusting.

His drive and innovation to protect his vessel from harsh condition still drives the company today. The full line of Rust-Oleum Marine Coatings offer unparalleled performance that hold up under everyday wear and environmental factors while remaining stylish.

RUST-OLEUM MARINE COATINGS

Offering solutions from bow to stern.

A boat is a big investment - one that deserves the highest quality protection available while not compromising on appearance. Rust-Oleum offers a full line of marine coatings to keep ships looking and performing at their peak for enhanced longevity and fewer repairs. Formulated to work in both fresh and salt water settings, these paints, primers and additives work hard to keep maintaining your vessel easier than ever.

• Protect from UV damage
• Resist salt, moisture and mildew
• Prevention corrosion
• Keep undersides algae and barnacle free
• Prime difficult or critical surfaces prior to painting
• Add an anti-slip grip to coatings for safety
• ...and much more!

SPECIALIZED TO STAND UP TO THE ELEMENTS

Thick yet flexible paint formula adds brilliant color that withstands extreme weather conditions. Offers exceptional gloss retention that resists fading even with daily sun exposure.	Provides exceptional shine with ultimate resistance to common damaging elements. Specially created to expand and contract with changing temperatures.	Use below the waterline in both fresh and salt water bodies of water to prevent buildup of marine growth on the bottom of the boat. Designed to slowly release copper for superior fouling protection.	Ultra-fine ground pumice base can be mixed into any latex or oil-based paints to add grip to surfaces. Its addition will not affect the durability or appearance of coating.

FULL BOAT PROTECTION

Maintaining Your Vessel Both Above and Below the Waterline

Find the right solution for every surface, including:

• Previously Painted Wood
• Lightly Rusted Metal

Customer Reviews
Price	$19.34$19.34	$62.95$62.95	$19.98$19.98	$26.89$26.89	$48.69$48.69	$12.89$12.89
Use Above the Waterline:	✓		✓	✓	✓	✓
Use Below the Waterline:		✓
Surfaces:	Wood, Metal, Fiberglass	Previous Hard Coatings, Fiberglass Boats with Outboards/ Outdrives	Interior and Exterior Wood	Bare, Painted or Lightly Rusted Metals	Fiberglass, Wood, Previously Painted Surfaces	Wood, Metal, Fiberglass, Concrete
Protects Against:	UV Damage, Weathering, Abrasion	Barnacles, Algae, Other Marine Growth	UV Damage, Water, Sea Spray, Chemicals	Corrosion, Peeling, Cracking	Corrosion, Peeling, Cracking	Slippage on Wet Surfaces
Dries to the Touch In:	1-2 Hours	4 Hours	2 Hours	1-2 Hours	1 Hour	Same as Paint Added To
Full Cure In:	3 Days	16 Hours	3 Days	1 Day	3 Days	Same as Paint Added To
Coverage:	100 Sq. Ft. Per Quart	110 Sq. Ft. Per Quart	75-150 Sq. Ft. Per Quart	100 Sq. Ft. Per Quart	100 Sq. Ft. Per Quart	Same as Paint Added To

Product guides and documents

Top brand: rust-oleum, compare with similar items.

	207008 Marine Spar Varnish, Quart, Gloss Clear	Woolsey Spar Varnish	-520605 Halcyon Marine Varnish | Water-Based Polyurethane Wood Finish | Clear Satin UV Protection for Interior and Outdoor Use (Clear Satin, Quart)	Helmsman Water Based Spar Urethane, Quart, Gloss	Gleam Marine Spar Varnish, Gloss and Satin Polyurethane Finish for Wood, Boats and Outdoor Furniture (Satin Low-Sheen Pint)	Rust-Oleum 9241 Ultimate Spar Urethane Oil Based, Quart, Gloss
Price	$19.98$19.98	$31.95$31.95	-8% $35.14$35.14 List: $37.99	$28.78$28.78	$28.99$28.99	$25.98$25.98
Delivery
Customer Ratings	3,405	17	1,203	8,118	1,349	635
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Important information

1. Stir product thoroughly before use. 2. Apply to clean, dry wood surfaces above the water line. 3. For best results, apply in temperatures between 50-85°F. 4. Allow to dry for 2 hours before recoating. 5. Clean up any spills immediately to prevent staining. 6. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 81% 13% 4% 1% 2% 81%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 81% 13% 4% 1% 2% 13%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 81% 13% 4% 1% 2% 4%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 81% 13% 4% 1% 2% 1%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 81% 13% 4% 1% 2% 2%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the finish quality, functionality, and ease of application of the household varnish. They mention it has a gorgeous finish, works very well for bird houses, and is easy to apply. Some are happy with the value for money and protection level. However, some are disappointed with the tint and have different opinions on the drying time.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the finish quality of the product. They mention it's easy to use, has a gorgeous finish, and makes the boat look brand new. Customers also appreciate the depth, richness, and build-up to a high gloss finish as they add more coats. They love the color and say it works well on outside decorations made of wood.

"...It is tough finish seems to waterproof and lovely ! It is a semi gloss and really put the life back in my wood. Preparation was the most work...." Read more

"...two coats of this varnish on both sides of the gate and the appearance is exceptional ands protected the wood...." Read more

"...it went on like a dream. so easy and looks so great , and cleans up easily in paint thinner." Read more

"...less product and add more color, depth, richness and then build to the high gloss finish as you add more coats...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the functionality of the product. They mention it does a great job, is great, and applies well. Some say it works perfectly for their painted rocks and bird houses.

"The results turn out great following the directions . The process does take time. Just need to test it out once I put the boat back together." Read more

" Worked amazing " Read more

" Great product . Stands up to the sun and rain." Read more

"... It's fantastic . As a matter of fact, I am about to order another quart today." Read more

Customers find the product easy to apply. They mention it's easy to use, has no bubbles, and stays fluid long. Some say the first coat goes on well, and it will flow on easily and smoothly.

"...I did my deck railings and banister. This is fool proof. It is easy application and I did not dilute it...." Read more

"...years since being sealed and has stood up to three winters with no touch up required ...." Read more

"...it went on like a dream . so easy and looks so great, and cleans up easily in paint thinner." Read more

"...this is a good one, thank you for finding it!".The first coat goes on well ..." Read more

Customers like the durability of the varnish. They mention it looks like it will be durable, has a very strong finish, and lasts a long time. Customers also appreciate the good quality and UV protection.

"...It is tough finish seems to waterproof and lovely! It is a semi gloss and really put the life back in my wood. Preparation was the most work...." Read more

"...with fencing for over forty years I can attest tothe quality and durability of this product which I highly recommend especially at $19.99 in the USA..." Read more

"Follow the directions on the can and the varnish goes on well and will last . So far it has been a good product...." Read more

"...it's way through, put several coats on with this stuff and it holds up great ...." Read more

Customers appreciate the value for money of the product. They mention it's inexpensive and worth the time.

"...Great product for your boat. Amazon has the best price and over night delivery." Read more

"... Good quality foam brushes are inexpensive and can be purchased in quantity. Clean up? Don't bother - one use and then just throw it away...." Read more

"...Would recommend very highly at a great price !!" Read more

"...-o-war and find the Rustoleum as user friendly and durable at a much better price ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the protection level of the varnish. They mention it goes on easily, protects inside and out, and holds up well to sun and rain. Some say it's ideal for protecting outdoor wood.

"...on both sides of the gate and the appearance is exceptional and s protected the wood ...." Read more

" Good product for protecting outdoor wood items like a 4 tiered stand for plants" Read more

"Great product. Stands up to the sun and rain ." Read more

"...It really protects them from the summer heat and weather...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the drying time of the varnish. Some mention it dries quickly, while others say it takes several days to totally dry.

"...It takes about 8 hours to dry to the touch ( in ideal dry low humidity conditions) and needs a bit longer before applying the additional coats...." Read more

"...varnish as we are really after the marine high gloss and superior water protection for our outside cedar soffits and porch railings...." Read more

"I bought this to refinish a guitar that I'm working on. It dries quickly . Although it's dry in a day, I allow 3 days between coats...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the tint of the varnish. They mention it has a very yellowish brown tint, tends to yellow after a few years, and turns their blue porch an awful vomit color. Some say it's too shiny for what they were working on and turns green a couple of days later.

"...and great water protection but product definitely has a muted yellow tint that I was not expecting." Read more

"...I painted it a beautiful, bright orange. The clearcoat has a yellow tint to it so now it's just a muddled ugly orange after hours and hours of work..." Read more

"...Be aware that although this product says it is clear, it has a light brown tint to it . It looks good on bare wood and on dark colored painted wood...." Read more

"...The subsequent coats take less product and add more color , depth, richness and then build to the high gloss finish as you add more coats...." Read more

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How to Use Yacht Varnish? (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Are you looking for a way to give your boat a polished, professional finish? Yacht varnish provides a layer of protection and a beautiful shine that wont fade over time.

In this step-by-step guide, well explain what yacht varnish is, the benefits of using it, and how you can apply it to your boat.

Well also discuss preparation, application, drying, and sanding between coats, so you can be sure your boat is looking its best.

So, if youre ready to learn how to use yacht varnish, lets get started!.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Yacht varnish is a protective coating used to seal and protect wood surfaces on boats.

To apply yacht varnish, start by sanding the wood surface with a fine-grit sandpaper.

Then, apply a thin coat of the varnish with a brush, working in long, even strokes.

Allow the varnish to dry for 24 hours before applying a second coat.

Finally, sand the surface with very fine sandpaper before buffing it with a soft cloth.

What is Yacht Varnish?

Yacht varnish is a specialized wood finish designed to protect outdoor wood surfaces from moisture and UV damage.

It typically consists of a blend of resins, oils, and solvents that provide a tough, yet flexible coating, which is ideal for protecting boat decks, outdoor furniture, and other wood surfaces that are exposed to the elements.

Yacht varnish also provides a glossy, attractive finish that enhances the beauty of the wood.

Unlike paint, yacht varnish does not completely cover the wood, allowing the natural grain of the wood to show through.

It is also relatively easy to apply and maintain, making it a popular choice for marine and outdoor wood surfaces.

Benefits of Yacht Varnish

When it comes to protecting outdoor wood surfaces, yacht varnish is an excellent choice.

Not only does it protect the wood from moisture and UV damage, but it also adds a beautiful shine and luster to the wood.

Yacht varnish is a long-lasting coating that can provide years of protection under the right conditions.

It is also easy to apply and can be used on a variety of wood surfaces, including boats, decks, and other outdoor wood surfaces.

When applied correctly, yacht varnish offers many benefits.

It forms a protective barrier against moisture and UV damage, preventing fading, cracking, warping, and other damage that can occur with prolonged exposure to the elements.

The coating also helps keep the wood from rotting, which can be an issue if the wood isn’t properly sealed.

Finally, the varnish adds a beautiful shine and luster to the wood, making it look like new.

Yacht varnish is also easy to apply and can be used on a variety of wood surfaces.

It is a great choice for any outdoor wood surface, including boats, decks, furniture, and more.

It is also relatively inexpensive and can be found at most home improvement stores.

With the right application, yacht varnish can provide years of protection and a beautiful finish to any outdoor wood surface.

Preparing the Wood Surface

Before applying yacht varnish, it is important to properly prepare the wood surface.

The surface should be thoroughly cleaned and dried, and any old varnish should be removed.

Sanding the wood will also help to ensure a smooth, even finish.

It is important to use the correct type of sandpaper for the project.

For instance, a medium-grit sandpaper is suitable for most wood surfaces, while a finer grit may be necessary for surfaces that require a more delicate finish.

Once the surface is prepared, it should be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.

This will help ensure a successful application of yacht varnish.

Applying the Varnish

When it comes to applying yacht varnish, its important to understand the steps involved in the process.

First, the wood surface should be clean, dry, and sanded.

This ensures that the varnish will adhere properly and will provide maximum protection.

Next, apply a thin coat of varnish with a natural-bristle brush.

This helps to ensure even coverage and minimal brush strokes.

Allow the varnish to dry before applying a second coat.

Its important to allow the varnish to dry completely before applying any additional coats.

Sand lightly between coats to help ensure an even surface.

Additional coats should be applied as needed, but always be sure to allow the varnish to dry completely before exposing the surface to the elements.

With proper application, yacht varnish will protect your outdoor wood surfaces for years to come.

Allowing the Varnish to Dry

When it comes to yacht varnish, it is important to allow the varnish to dry completely before exposing the surface to the elements.

This will ensure that the varnish is properly bonded to the wood and will provide optimal protection from moisture and UV damage.

It is best to allow the varnish to dry for at least 24 hours before applying a second coat.

The drying time will also depend on the temperature and humidity of your environment, so it is important to allow for extra time if these conditions are not ideal.

Once the varnish is dry, it is recommended to lightly sand the surface before applying a second coat.

This will help to ensure that the varnish bonds properly and that the finish is even and smooth.

If additional coats are needed, the process should be repeated.

It is important to allow the varnish to dry completely between each coat, as this will ensure that the varnish fully bonds with the wood.

For best results, allow the varnish to dry for at least 48 hours before exposing the surface to the elements.

By allowing the yacht varnish to dry completely, you can be sure that the wood is properly protected and that the finish will last for years to come.

Sanding between Coats

Sanding between coats is an important step when applying yacht varnish.

After each coat of varnish is applied and has dried, the surface should be lightly sanded to remove any imperfections.

Sanding helps create a smooth, even finish and provides more effective protection against moisture and UV damage.

It also helps ensure that the next coat of varnish adheres properly to the surface.

When sanding between coats, use a fine-grit sandpaper (preferably around 320-400 grit) and sand in the direction of the wood grain.

This helps prevent scratches and other damage to the wood.

Be sure to only sand lightly, as sanding too aggressively can damage the wood and reduce the effectiveness of the varnish.

After sanding, use a clean cloth or brush to remove any dust or debris from the surface.

This will help ensure that the varnish adheres properly and provides the best possible protection.

Once the surface is clean, apply the next coat of varnish as normal.

With proper sanding between coats, yacht varnish will provide effective protection and lasting results.

Applying Additional Coats

Once you have applied the first coat of yacht varnish, it is important to apply additional coats for the best protection.

Depending on the specific product you are using, you may need to apply anywhere from two to seven coats.

It is important to allow the first coat to dry completely before applying any additional coats.

When applying additional coats, it is recommended to lightly sand the surface between each application.

This will help ensure a smooth, even finish and allow the varnish to adhere better.

After sanding, be sure to remove any dust or debris before applying the next coat.

When applying multiple coats of yacht varnish, it is important to use the same type of brush and same technique each time.

This will help ensure a consistent finish.

For example, if you used a natural-bristle brush when applying the first coat, it is recommended to use the same type of brush for subsequent coats.

Additionally, use long, even strokes when applying the varnish.

It is important to note that you should avoid applying too many coats of yacht varnish.

Too many coats can cause the varnish to become too thick and may make the surface appear uneven.

Generally, three to four coats should be more than enough.

Once you have finished applying the desired number of coats, allow the varnish to dry completely before exposing the surface to the elements.

With proper application and care, yacht varnish will help protect your outdoor wood surfaces for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Yacht varnish is a great way to protect your outdoor wood surfaces from moisture and UV damage.

Its important to apply yacht varnish correctly in order to get the best results.

Start by preparing the wood surface, then apply a thin coat with a natural-bristle brush.

Allow the varnish to dry before sanding and applying additional coats as needed.

With proper application, you can enjoy your outdoor wood surfaces for years to come.

Now that you know how to use yacht varnish, why not give it a try on your next project?.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Which Yacht Varnish Is Best For My Boat?

Yacht varnish is a specialized type of varnish that is often used on boats. It has several advantages over conventional varnish, which is why it is becoming more and more popular among boat owners. In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of yacht varnish. We will also answer some common questions about yacht varnish. So if you are interested in learning more about this topic, keep reading!

Yacht varnish is a type of varnish specifically designed for boats. It is typically made from a tougher resin that can withstand the harsh conditions that boats are exposed to, such as salt water and sunlight. Yacht varnish also often contains UV inhibitors to help protect the wood from fading and other damage caused by exposure to sunlight. Conventional varnishes are not as durable as yacht varnish and will not stand up to the same conditions. This makes them less suitable for use on boats. However, they can still be used for other applications, such as furniture or around the garden.

Which types of varnish to use on my boat?

Marine varnish can be divided into three different types, each with its own perfect uses. Yacht owners choose to use one or all of these types for better performance.

Tung Oil-based varnish 

Is the most popular type among yacht owners who take boat maintenance seriously. International Schooner or Goldspar Boat Varnish are both oil-based varnishes that coats the wood evenly leaving a smooth finish while requiring minimal preparation work before it can be applied. This only requires a couple of coats. Is advisable to lightly sand the surface between coats to achieve the highest quality glossy finish. The smooth, high gloss finish will protect teak parts from water stains and help to maintain their appearance over time! Its UV protection helps prevent mould growth too which is especially important in wetter climates. Oil-based varnish is easy to apply and can be repaired by sanding and re-oiling the wood, meaning it will last longer than other conventional varnishes. It's also easier to apply compared with water-based yacht varnish which requires no sanding or priming before application.

Water-based boat varnish

Often used on marine boats where there is not much exposure to agitation or rubbing, making oil-based varnish too heavy for use. This yacht varnish type tends to leave a thin, powdery residue that needs sanding down after drying but offers better penetration into the wood than its oil counterpart. Polyurethane boat varnish - is much more hard-wearing than oil or water-based yacht varnishes. Stronger than oil-based or water-based yacht varnish, polyurethane yacht varnish tends to dry quickly and offers an ultra-hard surface that is resistant to impact, scratching and denting. This yacht varnish type has a high gloss tough finish so it's best suited for areas of the boat that are exposed to more wear and tear. This type of varnish can also be divided into two categories as one part polyurethane boat varnish and two-part polyurethane varnish.

One Part Polyurethane Varnish

The yacht varnish that is most commonly used for yacht paint jobs. The yacht varnish offers a quick drying time and can be easily re-coated within hours between each coat. It should be noted that due to its rigidity it is not recommended to be used for painting highly flexible wooden areas as it might crack in time leaving the wood exposed to elements. Two-Part Polyurethane Varnish - is the varnish with longer working times, making it easier to apply on larger boats. It's advisable to use only one part polyurethane yacht varnish for smaller projects as two-part yacht varnishes tend to leave an unprofessional finish when applied by hand. This type of varnish is extremely tough and consists of two products mixed together. It offers very good protection from moisture and UV damage but the same as the above this is not suitable for some areas on your yacht (such as spars) and it will crack as the wood moves and will leave the wood exposed to the elements.

Is yacht varnish waterproof?

Yes, yacht varnish is typically waterproof. This makes it a good choice for protecting boats from the elements. It can also help to keep the wood of the boat looking its best for longer.

Does yacht vanishes need a primer?

No, yacht varnish does not typically need primer. However, it is a good idea to test it on a small area of the surface you are going to varnish to make sure it adheres properly. If you do decide to use primer, make sure it is designed for use with yacht varnish.

Does yacht varnish seal wood?

Yes, yacht varnish seals the wood. It forms a protective barrier that helps to keep the wood from damage and keeps it looking its best for longer.

How long does yacht varnish last?

The lifespan of yacht varnish varies depending on the brand and the conditions it is exposed to. However, it typically lasts for several years, anywhere from two to three years before you need to apply a new coat or two. Some varnishes obviously last longer than others depending on the area where they will be applied.

Which is better? Woodstain or yacht varnish?

There is no simple answer to this question as it depends on the specific application and the needs of the user. However, in general, yacht varnish is a better option for protecting wood from the elements and keeping it looking its best. It is also typically more durable than wood stain, which makes it a better choice for boats.

Why is it important to sand between coats?

It is important to sand between coats of yacht varnish because it helps to create a smooth, even surface. This makes the final coat of varnish look its best and helps to protect the wood from damage.

How many coats should I apply?

The number of coats you should apply depends on the specific product you are using and the area you are varnishing. In general, two to three coats are sufficient. However, it is always a good idea to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

What type of finish can you get?

There are three types of finish on boat varnish: gloss, semigloss, and satin. Each one has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs. Gloss finish is the most durable, but it is also the most reflective. This can make it difficult to see in bright sunlight. The semigloss finish is less reflective than gloss, but it is still quite durable. It is a good choice for areas that receive moderate amounts of sunlight. The satin finish is the least reflective and also the least durable. However, it can provide a more natural look to the wood. It is a good choice for areas that do not receive a lot of sunlight.

Can you paint yacht varnish over wood stain?

Yes, you can put yacht varnish over the wood stain. However, it is important to make sure that the stain is fully dry before applying the varnish. Otherwise, you may end up with a sticky mess.

How long does it take for yacht varnish to dry?

The drying time for yacht varnish varies depending on the brand and the conditions it is used in. In general, you can expect it to take anywhere from six to eight hours to fully dry. However, it is always a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Can you thin yacht varnish?

Yes, you can thin yacht varnish if it is too thick. However, you should only use a thinner that is specifically designed for use with yacht varnish. Otherwise, you may end up with a poor-quality finish.

What is the best way to remove yacht varnish?

The best way to remove yacht varnish depends on the type of finish you have. If you have a glossy finish, you can use a polishing compound. For a semigloss or satin finish, you can use sandpaper. In general, it is best to remove yacht varnish with a power sander. However, you can also remove it by hand if you are careful.

Can I apply a new coat over the existing varnish?

Yes, you can apply a new coat of varnish over the existing varnish. However, it is important to make sure that the old coat is in good condition. Otherwise, you may not get the desired results.

Does yacht varnish go yellow?

Yacht varnish is designed to keep your boat looking good as new even throughout the season's hottest and coldest temperatures. The UV inhibitors prevent yellowing, which can otherwise occur due to exposure to external factors like sunlight or rainwater on a dock; they also remain slightly soft so that it will not crack when expanding or contracting with changes throughout each year. Liquids such as engine oils may cause blistering if left unprotected by an anti-blister agent like silicone lubricant (which contains graphite).

Is yacht varnish oil or water-based?

Yacht varnish is typically oil-based. This makes it more durable and resistant to fading. However, water-based varnishes are also available. These are less durable but easier to apply.

So which yacht varnish is right for you?

Choosing the right yacht varnish depends on how much time you want to put into maintaining your boat as well as its location. We stock a wide range of varnish suitable for any type of wood on your vessel.

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• The Ultimate Guide to Varnishing: Wood, Boats, and Beyond

Hello, my fellow DIY warriors and craftspeople! I bet you’re here because you’ve recently embarked on a woodworking project or maybe you're looking to breathe new life into some old furniture. Either way, you’ve likely come to realize that varnishing is a crucial part of the process. The finishing phase of a project is like the final act of a gripping play. The anticipation builds, and you're eager to see how it all turns out. In this extensive guide, we're going to demystify the art and science of varnishing, covering everything from the types of varnish to specific applications like boats and wooden furniture. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or a complete newbie, this guide is designed to give you the know-how you need to accomplish a successful varnishing job. So, let’s set the stage, shall we?

 Why Varnishing?

Protecting your wood.

When it comes to protecting wood, varnish is often the unsung hero of the woodworking world. Like a loyal sidekick, it stands guard, adding a layer of protection against a myriad of threats that your wood faces. It shields the wood from the harmful UV rays, humidity, spills, and even scratches. You wouldn't go into a snowstorm without a jacket, right? Similarly, leaving your wood unprotected is an open invitation to environmental damage.

Aesthetic Appeal

But hey, varnish isn’t all work and no play! Beyond its protective armor, it adds an aesthetic layer that's second to none. If you enjoy the luster that comes from a glossy or satin finish, then varnishing is your path to that coveted look. Think of it like makeup for your wood—it enhances its natural beauty, accentuating its grain and rich colors. Varnishing is the difference between looking good and looking fabulous!

Types of Varnish

Spar varnish.

When it comes to outdoor wooden items, spar varnish takes the cake. Also known as marine varnish, it’s specially formulated to withstand the harsh elements. Sun, rain, salt, or wind—bring it on! It’s designed to be more flexible than regular varnishes, allowing it to expand and contract with the wood. This flexibility helps prevent cracking and peeling, which is crucial when you're talking about boats or outdoor furniture. If your project involves anything that's going to face Mother Nature head-on, then spar varnish should be your first choice.

Teak Varnish

Ah, teak wood! Known for its stunning natural patterns and durability, teak is often used in high-end furniture and boat decks. But how do you protect this already robust wood? Enter teak varnish. This specialized type of varnish is a perfect match for teak wood, offering a hard finish while enhancing the wood’s natural characteristics. It's the ultimate duo—think Batman and Robin, but for wood!

Polyurethane Varnish

If you’re working indoors—like on a dining table, bookshelf, or cabinets—then a polyurethane varnish might be the way to go. It's incredibly tough, resistant to both water and solvents, making it ideal for surfaces that are going to see a lot of use or cleaning. It comes in both water-based and oil-based formulations, offering a range of finishes from matte to glossy. If you want something that is both practical and beautiful, polyurethane varnish ticks both boxes.

Varnish for Specific Applications

Varnish for boats.

If you have a boat, you probably treat it like a member of the family. After all, it gives you the freedom to explore open waters and provides endless entertainment. But boats require a lot of TLC, especially wooden ones. Varnishing your boat isn't just an aesthetic choice; it's a necessity. Marine or spar varnishes are often recommended for this task. These varnishes contain UV blockers that act like sunscreen for your boat, shielding it from the relentless sun. Additionally, they offer excellent water resistance—super important unless you like the idea of your boat gradually taking on water!

Wooden Boat Paint vs Varnish

You might be pondering whether to paint or varnish your wooden boat. While paint can offer an exciting range of colors and styles, varnish shows off the natural beauty of the wood. Paint also forms a thicker layer, which might obscure the wood grain. Varnish, being more transparent, celebrates rather than hides the material you’re working with. The choice between paint and varnish often boils down to personal preference, but if you want to show off that wood, varnish is the way to go!

Varnishing Wooden Furniture

Indoor wooden furniture doesn't face the same threats as a boat on the high seas, but it still needs some love. Think about how many times you've accidentally spilled something on your dining table or how often your coffee table becomes a makeshift footrest. Indoor furniture can be varnished with a variety of products, including polyurethane and acrylic varnishes. These can offer higher sheen options but may not necessarily have the same level of UV protection, which is usually fine for items that won't see much sunlight.

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The nitty-gritty: prepping and applying, wood preparation for varnish.

The key to a perfect varnishing job starts with preparing the wood. If you think you can slap some varnish on unprepared wood and call it a day, you're in for a rude awakening. Just like you wouldn't paint a wall without priming it, you shouldn't varnish wood without proper preparation. Start with a thorough sanding using progressively finer grits of sandpaper. Remove any old paint, varnish, or stains unless you're going for a rustic, distressed look. Finally, wipe the surface clean with a tack cloth to remove any residual dust. Remember, a smooth canvas yields a masterpiece!

How to Apply Varnish

So, your wood is all prepped and ready to go—what’s next? Now comes the actual varnishing. You'll need a high-quality brush, varnish, and a well-ventilated space. Remember to stir the varnish; don’t shake it like a martini. Shaking introduces air bubbles which can ruin your finish. Use long, even strokes to apply the varnish, working along the grain of the wood. Think of it like petting a cat; you wouldn't go against the fur now, would you?

Number of Coats Needed

One coat of varnish isn't going to cut it if you want durable, lasting results. A good rule of thumb is at least two to three coats for indoor projects and three to five for outdoor projects. Each coat adds a level of protection and enhances the sheen of the wood. Make sure you lightly sand between each coat for a smooth finish. Think of this as building layers, like adding blankets on a chilly night. The more layers, the cozier and more secure it is.

Maintenance and Care

How often should you re-varnish.

Just because you've varnished something doesn't mean it's maintenance-free for life. Even the highest quality varnish will wear over time. For outdoor furniture and boats, you may need to re-varnish every two to three years. Indoor items might go a bit longer, depending on wear and tear. When you notice the color fading, or the finish becoming rough, it’s time for a touch-up.

Cleaning Varnished Wood

Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the luster of your varnished wood. Use a soft cloth for dusting and avoid harsh cleaners that could strip the varnish. A mild soap and water solution works best for deeper cleaning. Remember, wood and water are not the best of friends. Make sure to dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning.

Tips and Tricks

Overcoming common problems.

Every now and then, even the most seasoned DIYers encounter problems when varnishing. Whether it's bubbles, streaks, or dust settling into your finish, these minor setbacks don’t have to ruin your project. A light sanding and another coat can often fix these issues. The point is, don’t panic! Varnishing is as much about patience and problem-solving as it is about technique.

DIY vs Professional Varnishing

If you're contemplating whether to take the DIY route or to hire professionals, consider your level of experience and the complexity of the project. While hiring a pro might cost more upfront, they bring expertise that can save you time and potentially costly mistakes. That being said, there's a unique sense of accomplishment in doing it yourself.

Varnishing is more than just a finishing touch; it's a critical component that provides both protection and aesthetic appeal to wood. Whether it's indoor furniture, a classic wooden boat, or your outdoor deck, the right varnish can make all the difference. The journey might be fraught with choices and challenges, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can achieve a finish that not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time.

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FAQs: Everčything about Varnishing Wood

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Fortress Trade 750ml Clear Gloss Solvent-Based Exterior Yacht Varnish   ( 326PC )

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Yacht Varnish Interior & Exterior

Palatine Yacht Varnish is a tough, traditional varnish for new, previously painted, stained or varnished surfaces.  Its quality and high gloss finish means it’s perfect for yachts, boats and other exterior wood projects.

Also available in an aerosol .

From £ 12.95 Incl. VAT From £ 10.79 Excl. VAT

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Durable, traditional solvent based exterior yacht varnish, with a clear gloss finish for new, previously painted or stained wood.  Superior quality, high gloss yacht varnish is formulated to provide a tough coating for ensuring yachts, boats and exterior wood stay looking fantastic.

Good coverage and quick drying time enables you to complete jobs quickly with great results. Our Yacht Varnish provides superb durability, also making it ideal as a coating for windows and doors to protect them from poor weather.

Palatine Yacht Varnish Key Features:

• Outdoor clear varnish – ultimate protection against chemicals and pollution for exterior wood
• Ideal for: hard and soft wood – including doors, windows and marine woodwork
• Quick drying: Touch dry in 2 hours
• Weather resistant exterior varnish: prevents UV and water damage
• Extremely durable: resists cracking and blistering
• Excellent wet edge and flow out
• Suitable for both new or previously painted or stained surfaces

Appearance and Application Tips:

• The finish of Palatine Yacht Varnish is clear with a high gloss. While we advise it has a slight “straw” tint, our customers use it because of its clarity. Browse the reviews for more details.
• With a good wet edge it is easy to apply by brush or roller. It can also be applied by conventional or airless spray.
• We recommend a minimum of two coats of yacht varnish for maximum protection and always allow for the suggested time between coats (see directions for use above).
• This coating is touch dry in two hours and hard dry in 8 hours.
• It can be used on hardwood, softwood, metals and other substrates (contact us if you are unsure).
• When applying an outdoor varnish or paint, avoid windy conditions which can blow dust and grit into your wet surface.
• For thinning and cleaning tools and equipment use Carbosolv White Spirit.

Yacht varnish is an excellent tough coating with an attractive high gloss finish. Our other varnishes for wood include Polyurethane Varnish  and Polyurethane Floor Varnish . For an eggshell finish yacht varnish, see Coo-Var Yacht & Seaplane Varnish Eggshell . If you are unsure which varnish to use give us a call on 01942 884122.  Take care if removing old coatings containing lead, please visit the BCF for an illustration on how to deal with this.

Colours Available: Clear.

Pack Sizes: 1 Litre, 2.5 Litre, 5 Litre.

Coverage / Drying Times:

Surface Dry: 2 hours

Hard Dry: 8 hours

Overcoat : after 24 hours Keep coated areas dry for a minimum of 24 hours following application. Please note, drying times will be extended at low temperatures. Do not apply when ambient temperature falls below 10ºC

Theoretical Coverage: 12 – 14m² per litre.

(Coverage rate can be affected by such variables as type and condition of substrate, type of application equipment and individual method of application.)

Preparation:

Proper surface preparation is essential for the success of any protective coating system. Before you begin ensure the area is free from any dust, oil, grease, old coatings and surface contaminants.

All surfaces to be painted should be clean, dry and free from loose and flaking material, dust, grease etc.

Rub down previously gloss painted surfaces with fine waterproof abrasive paper and rinse thoroughly.

Application:

Best results are obtained in warm (minimum 10°C), dry conditions.

Mix thoroughly for approximately 2 minutes using a drill stirrer. A wooden batten at least 25mm wide is also ideal. Apply an even coat using a brush, short to medium pile roller on smooth surfaces.

For spray application by either airless or conventional spray a dilution ration of no more than 10% is recommended with Palatine White Spirit by volume applying thin coats allowing each one to dry before applying subsequent coats.

Once dried, a second coat can be applied at full strength. This will prolong the life and performance of the coating.

Thinning and Cleaning: Use Palatine White Spirit.

A minimum of two coats is recommended on bare wood to optimize the coatings performance.

Please note: The colours on the product listings are only given as a guide. This is due to the fact that every computer monitor has a different capability to display colours. In addition, everyone sees these colours differently. Sample pots are available to order upon request. Always carry out a test patch (approximately 100x100mm) before full application to ensure compatibility with previous coatings and the substrate, and to ensure the colour achieved meets your requirements. Failure to do so will result in a product refund claim not being accepted.

Product Documents

• Yacht Varnish SDS
• Yacht Varnish TDS Detailed

15 reviews for Yacht Varnish Interior & Exterior

andylonnen (verified owner) – 25th May 2022

Continued use of this Varnish for my Boatbuilding work. Excellent application and good drying qualities. Definitely recommend!

John Charles William Mellows – 30th March 2022

varnish arrived quickly and I have been very pleased with the results and the build up of coats. The price is excellent compared with other well known brands of marine varnish. Highly recommended

Andy Lonnen (verified owner) – 13th October 2021

Repeat ordering of this product. Really pleased with coverage and weather resistance. Excellent trouble free service and delivery.

mckinnell60 (verified owner) – 1st June 2021

The varnish flows well and good build up. Time will tell on UV resistance of course, especially on our boats, but indications are this varnish will replace my usual pricey marine big names.

Alex Smith (verified owner) – 14th March 2021

Bought for coating outside mud kitchen. Excellent coverage which gave wood vibrant shine. Quick dispatch and delivery.

Reginald P (verified owner) – 12th August 2020

EXCELLENT QUALITY AND AT A GOOD PRICE WORKS EVERY BIT AS GOOD AS THE BIGGER NAMED

Leonard Vaughan. (verified owner) – 24th June 2020

I Bought 1ltr of Yacht Varnish Clear High Gloss for interior and Exterior Absolutely Brilliant and Highly Recommended.

bubblesforkids – 4th May 2020

We bought this exterior yacht varnish on ebay to start with, with lockdown closing DIY stores. WOW we have been making Novelty Chalkboards for 5 years now and never found a clear varnish that didn’t show up yellow tinges. This is amazing on all levels, CLEAR very CLEAR and makes our chalkboards so hard, so will help maintain the wood. We are ordering another 5 litre today after only 1 week since last can. I cannot say how happy we are, our whites, pale pastel coloured paints are all looking how they should. Well done Palatine Paints, keep up the good work. Would be great if you could introduce COLOURED exterior paints too as we would certainly be buying these. Rosemary/Davie @ Novelty Chalkboards. Scotland 🙂

jason – 5th May 2020

Thanks Rosemary and Davie for your comments. We do coloured exterior paints! Have a browse around the website. Our two hour gloss and our Palatine Professional in matt and satin are all ideal for exterior use and can be made in any colour from the RAL Classic and BS381c and BS4800 colour charts

T Rys – 14th April 2020

I used this varnish for veranda wood construction. It was easy to apply, very efficient, nice glossy finish. Will buy again.

Jake – 13th April 2020

Very good finish. Thickly applied. Used on floor. Covered 45 square meters.

Joe Law – 9th April 2020

Found this company on Amazon and ordered 2.5 lt unit. Delivery was very quick and product excellent to administer. First class service

mcheyne17 – 8th April 2020

Excellent product and excellent service. Clare really helpful on the chat line. A pleasure to deal with this company and a great find on the internet. 5 star company!

R Johnson – 12th February 2020

I have used the marine varnish on the external rubbing rails and cockpit of a South Coast One Design and found it has lasted far better than the Epifans yacht varnish or the Hempel Quick Drying yacht varnish, particularly for high wear areas.

Malcolm McGeoch – 15th January 2020

top quality in every respect (1 Litre)

Peter Fuller – 15th January 2020

Excellent service & product (1 Litre)

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Yacht Varnish is a high gloss, clear alkyd varnish, with exceptional hardness and very good penetration properties. Gives a professional, clear finish. To be used on all wooden surfaces above the waterline.

Key features

• Contains UV filters for long lasting wood protection
• Proven long lasting performance
• Very good levelling and gloss retention

Technical details

• Product Categories Yachting Topcoats - yachting
• Technology Alkyd
• Substrate Coated surfaces Wood

Technical Data Sheets

Safety data sheets, application guides, related products.

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• International Marine Coatings
• International Protective Coatings

Schooner is a premium one-component high gloss varnish which has exceptional durability and is suitable for interior & exterior use. This product is easy to apply and has a long lasting warm colour.

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Good to know

• Excellent water resistance, silky application and self-levelling properties
• A deep, rich gloss that’s easy to apply
• For interior and exterior use with great UV protection

Download technical datasheet

Contains detailed information on everything from the substances used to the application method.

• Technical datasheet - EN (PDF 195KB)

Technical data excerpt

Safety information.

The safety datasheet contains detailed information for the current formulation of this product such as hazardous ingredients, first-aid measures, fire-fighting measures, handling and storage. To make sure you have the right datasheet, please find the corresponding colour and formula on your can. The formula is usually on the bottom. We provide safety datasheets for each latest formula.

• Sales code YVA086
• Revision Date 20200901

Flammable liquid and vapour.

Suggested protective equipment

• Protective equipment overview

Advice on how to avoid problems

• Solve common problems

Check if this product is compatible with your current antifouling product

Simply use this tool to check compatibility with the antifouling product you already have on your hull. If you need any assistance, feel free to contact us for support.

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For professional use only

Because of the application method required for this product, it is labeled for professional use only. This product is only for use by boat paint industry professionals.

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Sadolin Yacht Varnish

• For windows, doors and conservatories
• Enhance the natural colour and beauty of wood
• Traditional varnish with added UV protection
• Highly durable, resists peeling and flaking

The colours shown on this website may not match exactly with the end result. The availability of colours shown vary depending upon product size. Sadolin cannot be held responsible for any variations between product and swatches shown.

Description

Sadolin Yacht Varnish is a traditional clear varnish used to build a durable, high gloss finish. With a High Gloss finish, Sadolin Yacht Varnish has been formulated with a completely clear formulation – ideal to enhance the natural beauty and colour of wood. Developed by our wood care experts with protective UV additives, our premium formulation protects against damaging UV light, providing long lasting protection that resists peeling and flaking with its high-build protective barrier.

Additional Information

Painted area: 7.50 sq. Meters

No of Coats:

Drying time:.

• Touch Dry: 4 - 6 hours
• Re-coat: 16-24 hours

Pack sizes available:

Application:.

Apply by brush

How to guides

This Is Sadolin – Episode 1 – Preparation Is Everything

This Is Sadolin – Episode 2 – ‘Classic And Extra – Joined Up For Joinery’

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Types of Boat Paint and Marine Paint

Before you hit the water, a fresh coat of marine or boat paint can give your boat a much-needed makeover. Painting a boat can give it protection from everything from damaging UV rays to marine life that might try to make a home on its hull. 

This guide will walk you through the types of boat paint , which include the best boat paint for the topside and bottom of your boat.

SHOP BOAT AND MARINE PAINT NOW

Topside Boat Paint

Bottom boat paint, painting your boat.

When painting a boat, you’ll need different types of boat paint for above the waterline and below the waterline. These paints are specifically designed to withstand different elements over time. 

Topside boat paint protects your boat from the elements such as water, sunshine and sand. Depending on the level of exposure, UV rays can break down the materials a boat is made of, including wood and fiberglass. 

Typically, topside marine paint and fiberglass boat paint have a high-performance coating for UV resistance, color retention, flexibility and durability. These types of boat paint are also more resistant to cracking, chipping and peeling. Topside paints are great for touching up scratches or minor dents to improve the appearance of your watercraft.

Types of topside boat paint include:

• One-Part Polyurethane Paint: Harder than enamel paint, this paint has a glossy finish and a reputation for being easy to apply. A roller, brush or spray will work to add this paint to your boat. This topside boat paint dries quickly, but will not dry as hard or last as long as two-part polyurethane.
• Two-Part Polyurethane Paint: The hard and glossy finish of this paint is extremely sturdy. It’s best suited for fiberglass and may crack if painted onto other materials. Multiple layers of its thin coats need to be applied by either rolling and tipping or spraying. This extremely durable spray paint can last up to 60 months.
• Enamel Paint: Though it’s less durable than polyurethane, this paint’s flexibility makes it a good choice for wooden boats. It can expand and contract along with the wood without cracking. For best results, at least one maintenance coat of enamel paint should be added to a boat every year. Enamel paints can be applied with a brush without much trouble.

The bottom of a boat is constantly exposed to barnacles, algae, dirt and microorganisms. As you think about painting a boat below the waterline, it is best to choose an antifouling bottom paint. Antifouling paint helps prevent the build-up of micro-organisms.

Barnacles and other micro-organisms create hull drag, which increases the amount of fuel needed to power the boat through the water. Left unattended, these species can begin to destroy your boat to the degree that water enters the craft and the boat eventually sinks.

When your boat will be in the water for some of the year or all 12 months, keeping the hull clear should be your top priority. Painting a boat with the right types of bottom paint can help keep marine growth off your boat. Antifouling paint typically contains metal that is used as a biocide that stops microorganisms from growing on a boat’s hull.

How much you use your boat and how long it stays in the water can affect how often new paint is needed.

Less marine growth is found in freshwater than in saltwater. When painting a boat for freshwater, you can choose a bottom paint with fewer active ingredients to fight growth. Some bottom paint is well-suited for both freshwater and saltwater, however. 

Types of bottom paint include:

• Ablative Antifouling Paint: To better prevent marine growth on the hull, the biocides in this paint are present in its layers of paint and not just on its surface. This type of boat paint continues to be effective whether your boat is in the water or in dry storage. It’s one of the best boat paint choices for boats that will be stored during the winter. Ablative paint offers multi-season protection, so boats with this kind of bottom paint do not need to be painted annually. Boats can just be scrubbed or lightly sanded before being put back in the water after storage season.
• Modified Epoxy Antifouling Paint: This boat paint is harder than ablative paint, so it can help protect hulls from damage. Pesticides, such as copper, in the surface of the paint kill marine growth. This paint needs to be reapplied every year. Coats of it can build up over time and affect a boat’s operation and speed, so a boat may need to be sanded down and repainted. It works well for cruising boats and other vessels that stay in the water continuously for a year or more. When exposed to air, it will become much less effective.
• Hard Vinyl Antifouling Paint: This boat paint results in a hard surface without much friction. It’s often used on racing powerboats and sailboats. Hard vinyl paints have a faster drying time than other types of boat paint. However, vinyl paint can only go over vinyl paint. It should never be added on top of ablative or modified epoxy paint. Other types of boat paint should be completely removed from a boat before vinyl paint is applied.
• Thin Film Paint: This kind of boat paint has a slick surface that can keep freshwater algae from binding to the hull. Thin-film paint dries very quickly. It needs to be put on with an airless sprayer or a solvent-resistant foam paint roller. It’s one of the best boat paints for vessels that will be used on lakes. It is especially well-suited for freshwater racing sailboats.
• Bottom Paint for Aluminum Boats: When it comes to the best paint for aluminum boats, be aware that antifouling paints can be corrosive. Don’t use paints containing cuprous oxide (an oxide of copper) on aluminum boats. If you’re planning to paint an aluminum hull or overdrive, choose an antifouling paint made with a compound of zinc, a non-metallic agent or cuprous thiocyanate.

Whether you’re painting a boat on the topside or the bottom of your boat, begin by cleaning the area that you’ll be painting. Use a soft cleaning cloth and mineral spirits as needed. Then, allow the boat’s surface to dry.

Refer to the product instructions for the best way to apply the paint you’ve selected. You might put the paint on with a brush, a roller or a sprayer, depending on the type of boat paint you’re using. 

Boat paints have different drying times. Find the details about drying time for the product you are using in its instructions. Topside paints can dry in as little as two hours, so you won’t have to wait all day to get your speedboat, sailboat or fishing boat back in the water. Bottom paints can take longer to dry.

Finally, if you are refinishing wood on the interior of your boat, use a marine grade wood paint to prevent the wood from being damaged by water and salt. There are several types of paint for plastic , including plastic spray paints , that work well for plastic surfaces. And for cushions, check out fabric spray paints .Just make sure they are waterproof. 

Painting a boat keeps it seaworthy. As you figure out how to paint a boat, you’ll find out that the best boat paint depends on the boat type and how it’s used and stored. Topside paint protects the boat above the waterline. Bottom paints keep boats from getting bogged down with barnacles and other marine life.

Time to embark on a boat-painting project? The Home Depotdelivers online orders when and where you need them.

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