shady planet

West Marine can get you detailed information about Interlux Paints or you can Google Interlux. In either case, very detailed instructions are available for any kind of paint job. Not too long ago, I used a linear polyurethane on my boat (sprayed on) and the job came out beautifully. But you don't have to go to the extreme prep and expense of that kind of job. Good old fashioned enamels can also look great but won't last as long as the modern stuff. Once again, detailed instructions are readily available from Interlux. As for bottom paints, you can go with simple stuff or get carried away with the real expensive stuff. Check out the interlux manual. It will cover all boat surfaces--wood, steel, aluminum, fiberglass etc. There's a wealth of info.