Although beautiful to look at, traditional varnish can be difficult and time consuming to maintain. If you own a Hinkley, an Alden, or any traditional style vessel, you should consider refinishing the exterior wood with a traditional alkyd-base varnish. Epifanes is our personal favorite because it is thicker and seems to have a better shine. The first mate prefers Captain’s Vanish in the winter because it’s easier to work in lower temperatures. Whatever brand we use, it’s important to get enough coats (at least six) and a good seal at the seams and edges to prevent moisture from getting under the varnish, then freezing, thawing and lifting during the cold of winter.