23.5 bottom paint question

[RTsailsJ29]

Group, I just purchased a 23.5 that has never had bottom paint, I wanted to know if the factory scribe line is accurate. Should I have the paint applied above this if I'm carrying some items for cruising? Any other advice on your experiences would be appreciated. Thanks,
Rob
Punta Gorda, FL

 

[shemandr]

Will you be keeping the boat in the water or will you "Dry Sail" it?
The only reason I can think of to apply bottom paint above the water line is to keep marine growth from the topsides. I would prefer to remedy that with a regular scrub of the waterline either while at anchor or from the deck. Slime will grow, even on anti-fouling paint, so you'll probably want to give the bottom a regular cleaning anyway.

 

[RTsailsJ29]

I will be keeping the boat in the water (salt), mostly concerned about how accurate the scribed line is and should I have the paint applied higher if I have cruising items on board.

 

[rgranger]

I think a boot stripe looks good on a boat. If it were mine, I'd paint to the scribe line with bottom paint and then add a boot stripe with a hard enamel paint and choose a color that won't show the pond scum stain very easily (like a light brown or tan color)

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

I can answer that from many 23.5 sailboats I painted, usually I painted two inches above that scribed line due to wave slapping against the hull

 

[RTsailsJ29]

Dave, That's kinda where I was leaning, 2" above the scribe. Nice getting some confirmation on that from someone with your experience and knowledge. Thank you,
Rob
Punta Gorda, FL

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

@RTsailsJ29

You are welcome sir