Hi folks,

Im a novice in the kayaking world...

My question comes from an ol' thread that I had found from the builder/owner of a Chesepeake 17 [the same model I intend to buy as kit]. While he thoroughly enjoys the kayak he mentioned that the paint on the hull scratches very easily. It is the recommended Marine Paint he claims, but even soft sandy beach landings as well as rubbing next to a dock will chip or scratch the paint.

This is the ONE thing bothering me about the idea of a painted wood kayak. The said kayak builder/owner sais he didnt "varnish" or "coat" the hull, only the unpainted wood stained top.

So whats the low down on painted hull kayaks. Granted, any paint will scratch, given a hard enough knock, but this sounds a little excessive. Isnt there a way to actually dye or color the epoxy rather than paint over it and suffer the danged chips and scratches??

This is my only standing caveat thats concerning me regarding the purchase of a wood kit. Any help would be most appreciated.

Best Always,

Peter