when using Cetol, is not thinning it just a touch - I know the instructions don't call for this unless absolutely necessary, but for me it provides a much nicer job, especially with the "gloss" finish coat ( should you like this type finish). I personally like a satin finish and forgo the gloss. Another thing that's a little different is the fact that Cetol flattens, shrinks, and conforms slightly as it dries. The first coat or two often look like crap but after a couple of days appear much smoother. Cetol is a "flexible" finish when cured and will breath, and expand/contract to some degree with the wood - I believe this is why it has superior durability and gives better moisture protection. You can dent Cetol and it will retain it's integrity, unlike most varnishes which are more brittle and may chip or crack.

As far as I'm concerned the Baja is the most brutal environment for any wood coating yet we tend to get a full year out of a Cetol finish there. I always do an Acetone wipe down after sanding Teak or Mahogany before coating - I do five coats of Cetol with a badger hair brush. I can generally get two coats a day on here in our high dry atmosphere. I do use foam brushes with varnish but for some reason Cetol flows better with the badger hair brush, at least for me.

If you have only seen the old style "orangey" Cetol you are in for a pleasant surprise with the new Natural Teak. The new stuff claims to be much more UV resistant as well. I say again - properly prepared and applied - the new Cetols will last at least twice as long as most varnishes. I love the look of real varnish and would be using it if I could get the same sort of service out of it.