I have a boat I built for my daughter that is skinned with #10 duck. The canvas is on and shrunk, but the weather has not cooperated (I work outside). I am getting close to vacation and the boat does not have the first coat yet.

How many coats are required before the boat can be used? I would like to let my daughter use it during vacation and do more coats later if needed.

The plan is to use water based varnish (Min-Wax Waterbased Polycrylic semi-gloss) and we have only 6 days left before we had hoped to use the boat. I have access to a damp garage that can be used if the weather doesn't cooperate, but it isn't as convenient.

Any suggestions on how to speed the process or tips for dealing with the wet weather.

Pete