Any time I have completed a kayak and needed to varnish it, I have used the following method. First, I check the weather. If it is nice, then I go paddling, being careful not to scratch the kayak (difficult for me). If I feel guilty for not applying at least one coat of varnish, then I will resolve myself to making the effort to get said coat applied. I apply one coat of varnish to the deck one day, then I apply a coat to the hull during the next day. If the weather remains pleasing, then I go paddling. If the weather becomes inclement, I apply another coat of varnish to the deck and hull as previously stated. If the weather continues to be fair and clear, I keep paddling the kayak until the weather gets worse. If I get sick and can't paddle, then I varnish the kayak. If I do get sick, I make certain that I have at least two days to coat the deck and the hull. Hope this helps.

Robert N Pruden