Best paint/primer for salt water steel boat?

Question

Best paint/primer for salt water steel boat?

Answer 1

there are some industrial coatings available from Sterling.  also there are some relatively inexpensive (approx $80/gal kit) which are available overseas.  they are very hard curing and nice and bright glass--they have high VOCs

if you are limited to the USA, look for a Duron store--a lot in Florida or the SE and ask to talk with an industrial coatings rep.  don't buy anything off the shelf, but talk with a rep and they will sell even small orders

Answer 2

Zinc based primer with Two-Pak Poly top coats (2).  If you have long term plans for the boat get commercial quality.

Answer 3

From past experience do not in any circumstances use a zinc based primer on a steel hull. Try someone like international paints or Altex coatings

Answer 4

We used coal tar epoxy on our and it was good for many years.  Be sure to use enough coats for proper thickness.  Followed by a good quality bottom paint.  

Bottom should be sandblasted prior to priming.  May have to be done in sections to be sure no bare metal sits overnight.