Varnish that looks good in the Northern Crusing areas will most likely not last in the South. Boat up north have short seasons and often are hauled and put away for the winter.

In the Tropical climates; should you choose to use one of the varnishes that a real Yankee uses, be prepared to become a varnish slave.

Been there done that.

That being said our boat is varnished. We use Signature Finishes Honey Teak (no profit motive here, no relation) and she holds up well in the Tropics. One to two coats once / year and we're good to go again for another year. Biggest issue is getting the stuff here in the tropics. Shipping Varnish is like shipping Dynamite; at least the airlines think so!

Go Slow
Sail Far
Stay Long