I initially used a semi-flat paint on my Black Pearl (the prototype), just because it seems to suit the kayak. I painted it high-gloss and dulled the surface with steel wool, followed by rubbing compound and polish. A lot of work, but resulting in a beautiful deep piano-like finish – one almost impossible to refinish to the same standard when scratched! So back to high-gloss it was, regrettably.
This is probably a better...