Hi Marc,

I asked this same question a while back about my Guillemot. I used West System epoxy with 207 hardener (which has some minor UV resistance), and I spoke to a technician who said that using the boat for a couple weeks would not effect the epoxy. I used the boat for a couple weeks (off and on) before I varnished, and I had no problems. If you used the same epoxy and hardener, you should be fine. If you used a different brand, I would recommend you call the manufacturer and talk to their tech support. They will be able to make a recommendation. It is my understanding, however, that it takes months of sun exposure to cause clouding in epoxy.

As long as you have everything sealed well, water will not be a problem on the unvarnished epoxy.

Even given the green-light to use the boat, you should keep the boat out of the sun when not in use just to be on the safe side.

Congratulations on the new boat!

Ross

> The end of my Chesepeake construction is almost finished. The kayak has
> been completely encapsulated in epoxy and requires further sanding before
> painting/varnishing begins. Is it possible of trying the kayak in the
> water before painting/varnishing? I would like to try it before I spend a
> great deal of time painting in case of slight changes being required. Will
> the epoxy be affected in any way in the water or by sunlight exposure?
> Thanks.