Buy Epifanes for boat and yacht
Epifanes is a Dutch family brand that has been developing paints, varnishes and maintenance products for yacht building and watersports since 1902. At watersportsonline.com you'll find the complete Epifanes range: boat varnish in colour and clear, mono- and polyurethane paints, antifouling from Copper Cruise to copper-free Werdol, primers, fillers, varnishes for wood and the Seapower maintenance line for wax, polish and cleaning.
Boat varnish, antifouling or wood varnish: what do I need?
| Product | Application | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Boat varnish colour / Clear UV | Hull and topsides, colour or protective transparent | Polyester, gelcoat, wood |
| Mono-urethane / Poly-urethane boat varnish | High-gloss finish, harder paint layer | Steel, polyester and wooden boats |
| Copper Cruise antifouling | Self-polishing antifouling with copper oxide | Salt and brackish water, year-round use |
| Werdol copper-free antifouling | Copper-free variant for aluminium hulls | Aluminium boats and freshwater |
| Hardwood oil varnish / PP varnish | Protection and gloss for teak deck or wooden parts | Exterior wood, masts, cockpit edge |
| Multi Marine Primer | Adhesion layer under paint or antifouling | Polyester, wood, gelcoat |
Rule of thumb: use a primer under every new paint or antifouling layer, and choose the antifouling type to match your sailing area. For underwater maintenance and cosmetic damage, the Seapower line handles polish, wax and hull cleaning without primer.
The Seapower line
The Seapower series from Epifanes is a complete range of maintenance products for above the waterline. Metal Polish polishes stainless steel and aluminium, Color Restorer refreshes faded gelcoat, Super Poly Boat Wax protects the finished hull and Wash-n-Wax Boat Soap cleans and maintains the wax layer in one go. Combine these steps with the right roller, brush and paint thinner from the same range for a complete maintenance system.
Frequently asked questions about Epifanes
What is the difference between mono-urethane and poly-urethane boat varnish?
Mono-urethane is a 1-component paint you can apply straight from the tin. It dries through evaporation and oxidation, is easier to touch up after small scratches and gives a deep, lively gloss. Poly-urethane is a 2-component paint to which you add a hardener. The resulting layer is harder, more chemically resistant and generally lasts longer, but application requires exact mixing ratios and you have to work within the pot life. For yearly maintenance, choose mono. For maximum durability on heavily loaded hulls, go with poly.
How thick should I apply antifouling?
Follow the minimum number of coats on the label, usually two to three brush or roller coats. A layer that's too thin loses effectiveness faster, a layer that's too thick will flake in the following season. Apply the first coat thinly and evenly across the whole hull, with extra attention to keel, rudder and high-load zones at the waterline. Allow drying between coats per the manufacturer's specification, typically four to six hours at twenty degrees Celsius. Cold or humid weather extends drying time, so plan maintenance for a stable weather period. Have a look at the broader antifouling collection for comparison with other brands.
Which substrates need primer?
Bare polyester, wood, steel or aluminium always need a primer before you paint or apply antifouling. Multi Marine Primer adheres to nearly any substrate and forms the base layer for both colour paint and antifouling. On a clean, old paint or antifouling layer that still adheres well, you don't need to re-prime: light sanding and degreasing with cleaning thinner is enough. If you're unsure about adhesion, test with a piece of adhesive tape on a sanded area: if the old layer pulls off, sand and prime.
Is Epifanes also suitable for wooden boats?
Yes, Epifanes is rooted in wood finishing. Hardwood oil varnish and PP varnish with UV filter protect teak decks, mahogany and exterior wood against sun and moisture. For interior wood, Aqua Marine Interior Varnish is a water-based variant without solvent smell. Combine with Teak Stain for light discolouration of greyed wood and use Tek-O-Clean & Bright to clean weathered teak before applying new oil or varnish. For a complete wood finishing setup, see also the boat maintenance collection and the boat paint collection.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure which product fits your boat? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.