: I just went into BoatsUS to get some Z-Spar Captains Varnish and they were
: out of it and said they would not re-stock it. Said I should get Z-Spar
: Flagship varnish. Flagship is $5 more a Quart ($30) but the label says it
: has 6 times the UV protection that Captain's had! Sounds like a lot less
: 'varnish stress' to me..

Hi Jay,
I have used both Captains and Flagship on my 4 boats. My early experience with Flagship was similar to what others have said BUT--- I finished 2 kayaks and refinished 1 kayak in the last year, all with Flagship. The Flaship flows on BETTER than the Captains and leaves no brush strokes or air bubbles. The shine in the same as captains. The color is a little deeper amber than Captains.

I can't say for sure but, I think the new Flagship is a different product than I have use previously. If the supplier sells a lot of this varnish and has NEW stock, I would say, go for the Flagship. It works fine for me.

Another tip: Use Z-spar's T-11 Brush Flo Thinner to thin the varnish especially if it's humid. Try to apply the last coat(s) without thinner.

Good luck,

Larry C.