In the Carib , the chant is .
Da coat de month mon!
Not a hobby of mine.
For folks that prefer cruising to being just a varnish hand there are choices.
Slather varnish on till you have 3 or 4 fresh coats and are out of varnish, dont bother with super fine sanding between coats, , then prime and paint 2 coats of marine paint.
If it becomes time for varnish again (probably to sell the boat) the paint will only be stuck to the varnish , not into the pores of the wood.
MUCH easier to remove. Works below too for the Coffin decore of many boats.
Second exterior choice , big with the yachtie set, is a fitted cover to cover all the varnish.
Have fun with your new hobby!