Vinyl Boat Wrap vs. Paint: What’s The Difference For Yachts?

In a sea of mostly white or cream yachts, a painted hull and exterior is an easy way for your vessel to stand out. In their pursuit of more eye-catching colors yacht owners have turned to more traditional options like gelcoat and marine paint, to more recent trends such as vinyl boat wrapping. Recent international boat shows have featured yachts with reflective metallic gold hulls and even graphic prints that are virtually impossible with marine paint. These are only possible with vinyl boat wrap. When debating boat wrap vs. paint for your vessel, it makes sense to know what makes them different form each other.

What Is Vinyl Wrapping?

Vinyl wrapping is the process of attaching large sheets of vinyl film to a boat with adhesive over existing paint or gel coat. Already popular with luxury cars and speed boats, the demand for vinyl boat wrap is increasing among yacht owners. Boat wrap is usually made up of poly vinyl chloride (PVC), LDPE (low density polyethylene), or LDPP (low density polypropylene) plastics. Available in a extensive range of colors, metallics, and custom graphics, it is this variety that attracts most yacht owners looking to make their vessels look unique.

Vinyl Wrapping Vs. Marine Paint: What’s The Difference?

The biggest difference between vinyl boat wrap and marine paint is the application process. Paint is liquid and attaches itself to a yacht’s surface when it is brushed or rolled on. On the other hand, vinyl boat wrap are pre-colored sheets of plastic that are stuck onto a yacht’s surface with adhesive. Marine paint can go onto an unfinished hull, while boat wrap can only be attached to an already painted surface. In both cases, a team of professionals can ensure the process is done properly.

Marine paint can last up to 10 years without needing major repairs, while gelcoat finish can last up to 20 years. Both options are more permanent and long-lasting options than vinyl boat wrap which typically lasts 5 to 7 years before beginning to peel and disintegrate. However, new boat wrap is much quicker to apply than paint or gelcoat, so it can be replaced more easily. While vinyl wrapping isn’t for everybody, it can be a quick, non-permanent way to upgrade the look of your yacht.

Yacht Management South Florida, Inc. is yacht management company with our own full-service boatyard in Fort Lauderdale, FL where we provide South Florida boat hull painting services. Our team of yacht managers and technicians work together to ensure complete yacht care and stress-free yacht ownership to all our clients. Send us a message or call (954) 941-6447 today to learn more about our reasonably priced services.