This may be old news to many, but I've just found that Cetol is
available through standard (non-Marine) paint stores at about half the
cost.  Additionally, it is available in a variety of shades (avoiding
the orange cast, I suppose), and two different levels of top coat,
depending on desired wear and abrasion resistance.  Does anyone have
experience with this side of things?  I've never seen it mentioned in
any of the Cetol threads online, but the fellow at my local paint
store (not a chain) insists that the undercoat, at least, is the same
formulation as the marine version, and I believe that's where the UV
protection is. Am I correct here?  Does anyone know?

Regards,

John Gaquin
m/v Brefnie Queen
32' Luhrs
Sesuit Harbor, Dennis, MA

John and all,
The Cetol by Sikens you refer to is supposed to be a different formulation
than their marine product.  At least that is what Sikens told me in a phone
call.  I used it on the cedar siding of our house and purchased it in 5
gallon buckets for $174~$200.  The product is called Cetol 1-2-3 system.
Cetol 1 being the primer and the Cetol 2-3 being the second and third coats
of  a thicker material.  The "natural" untinted "color" still imparts a
orangish tint.  It is supposed to have UV protection.
BTW, I should have bought it in 55 gal. drums!
Ron & Marilyn Sallee  "Arwetheryet"  34 CHB  Everett, WA (Varnish only)