On 2008-11-07 18:03:16 -0500, "Wilbur Hubbard"
said:

I don't think popcorn paint or any rough surface is compatible with the
deckhead of a sailboat. The overhead needs to be smooth, glossy and easy to
clean with fresh water and a little bleach to keep mold and mildew from
forming. Noise is not a problem provided the deck itself is cored with balsa
or plywood, Kledgecell etc.

The primary considerations for any seaman's yacht interior finish is that it
last the life of the yacht, remain easy to clean and maintain and remain
bright and attractive. What little wood is in evidence should be kept well
varnished for the same reasons. But primarily the interior surfaces should
be GRP with a glossy gel coat finish. Trim can be wood and perhaps one or
two of the bulkheads. The overhead (deckhead) should never be finished with
that cheap, unsightly vinyl held in place with battens. It's unacceptable to
any real sailor. Totally untenable!

I actually agree with most of this! But you'd love Xan's interior,
except that we've many wood accents that keep it looking less like a
Chlorox bottle.

Minor points: I like a Xan's slight texture over a glossy surface, but
that's a personal thing. We can keep it clean as easily as the edges
which are smooth, but the inevitable not-smooth areas would bug the
living daylights out of me (was a lacquer sprayer in a past life --
sight down every flat surface to spot imperfections).

Another thing. You don't mention it, but the Practical Sailor review of
the Navy 44s does: All our through-bolt nuts are visible, not hidden.
No, it's not as purty, but if one of them starts leaking, I'll see
immediately.

--
Jere Lull
Xan-à-Deux -- Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD
Xan's pages: http://web.mac.com/jerelull/iWeb/Xan/
Our BVI trips & tips: http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/