I have an Artic Tern that is 13 years old. The epoxy has faded and I don't think another coat of varnish will restore any of its original luster so I am thinking of painting it. I have some marine paint that I think will look good on it. My question is, do I just lightly sand the varnish on the kayak to get a tooth for the paint or do I need to take all of the varnish off. If so, how do I take the varnish off? Sanding or paint thinner?

Charles Robinson

Also, no matter what paint you choose, I'd recommend using a primer/leveller between the old surface and the paint.