I'm building a CLC Chesapeake 17 from plans and I'm getting close to the dreaded painting and finishing stage. I'd like as many pointers, ideas, words of wisdom as possible before I begin as I realize that the aesthetic result of this project will depend a lot on the finish. I'm currently thinking of painting the bottom and top edge of the hull with a one part polyurethane paint. I saw a job done with Petit and it looked excellent. Interlux Brightsides is mentioned as a good choice by CLC. I'm planning to varnish the rest of the deck. I plan on putting two coats of clear epoxy on the deck. The hull is glassed and epoxied. I'm thinking of running a strip of fiberglass tape along the junction of the hull and deck in order to increase the strength of the attachment and also as a protection from dings. I'll be doing this job outside. Further details elude me..for instance, should I paint or varnish first?

thanks for any help.