On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:22:28 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Is the first coating there on a new boat, or will I have to do it
straight off?

Unless you pay the dealer extra it will not be done. Many people
around here store their boat in lifts or on trailers and don't need
bottom paint.

What's a ballpark figure for having it done on a 20-foot CS?
How long does a good coating last?

You could do it yourself for less than $100 but a dealer will charge
at least 2 or 3 times more. If you do it yourself, follow the prep
instructions carefully and use at least 2 coats.