I've used Bristol for about 3 years on my 53, with generally good results. It can be found at some retailers, although I've not seen it in West Marine. About $55 per quart, it's an epoxy that requires careful mixing. It has two chief advantages over varnish...one; the epoxy makes the finish more resistant to scratch or scuff, and two; several coats can be applied in fairly rapid succession (within an hour or so of eachother) WITHOUT sanding between coats. This means that the total time required for the application phase of your project is much shorter than with traditional varnish finishes. Follow directions carefully, and I think you'll be pleased. While it can be applied in sunlight, direct sunlight that heats the wood surface will cause wrinkles in the finish. I'm not sure I'd say that the finish lasts much longer than traditional varnish...it might...but it sure goes on easier and requires less time to apply. By the way, the instructions say it can be applied over varnish in good condition, but it I've never tried it....
Dave
