: how many re-coats of varnish do people suggest?

You need a total of 12% UV inhibitor to protect the epoxy. If your varnish contains 3% UV inhibitor you will need 4 coats. You may be putting it on a little thin compared to normal thicknesses in marine applications so I think it's wise to put on a bit more. On my Outer Island I did 4 coats on the hull and 7 on the deck. I used 7 on the deck because I wanted to be sure I had good UV protection, because I sanded thoroughly and because ... I had a couple-o-problems getting a good smooth coat ... it took a bit of trouble shooting and thinking to figure out what my problem was!

Ken