Auerbach wrote:

Dumb question from a newbie: If gelcoat is tougher than paint, why not prep
the boat and put on a new layer gelcoat with a color the boat owner likes?
You mention that gelcoat can be patched; if an area of gelcoat can be
successfully replaced, it would seem that the entire boat can be re-coated.
I realize the replacement gelcoat might not be factory-quality, but wouldn't
it be at least as good as a coat of paint, and more durable?

Alex

Re-gelcoating is done all the time. Ask at your favorite yard.