2008 34FT Yellowfin Restoration Project

03/31/26 | Palmetto Marine Restorations

Overview

Michael came to Palmetto Marine Restorations looking for the best way to restore and modernize his 2008 34ft Yellowfin.

After years of use and exposure, the boat needed both cosmetic and structural attention to bring it back to a high standard.

We walked him through multiple options, including full paint and re-gelcoat solutions for the hullsides, along with a multi-step correction process for the upper sections of the boat. From there, we built a plan that focused on long-term durability, a cleaner look, and easier maintenance moving forward.

Exterior Hull Transformation

One of Michael’s biggest goals was to move away from the dark blue finish he had been maintaining for years. He wanted something cleaner, brighter, and easier to keep looking sharp.

We completely re-gelcoated the hull in white, but didn’t just spray over the existing surface.

Before applying the new gelcoat, we:

Blocked the entire exterior with 80-grit to properly level and prep the surface
Ensured a smoother, more uniform finish than factory
Applied color-matched white gelcoat for a clean, modern look

This approach allowed us to deliver a finish that not only looked brand new, but actually exceeded the original condition of the boat.

Interior & Structural Gelcoat Repairs

From the rub rail up, we performed a full multi-step correction to restore clarity and depth throughout the interior surfaces.

We also addressed several areas where the gelcoat had been compromised:

Repaired structurally damaged gelcoat sections
Rebuilt and refinished affected areas
Sprayed color-matched gelcoat for seamless repairs

Once complete, there was no visible trace of the previous damage.

Hardware, Safety, and Functional Upgrades

Beyond appearance, we made several upgrades to improve the boat’s reliability and long-term performance.

These included:

Installing a brand-new rub rail
Replacing rusted hardware with stainless steel components
Installing a new anchor light
Repairing and resealing a leaking transducer

The transducer issue was especially important. The boat had been taking on water through this area, so we:

Removed the existing transducer
Repaired cracking around the opening
Reinforced the interior seating of the thru-hull
Reinstalled it using heavy-duty 3M marine sealant

This ensured a completely watertight seal going forward.

Hull Protection & Finishing Touches

To protect the newly restored surfaces and make future maintenance easier, we applied a marine ceramic coating to the hull.

This provides:

Long-term protection against UV, salt, and oxidation
Easier cleaning and maintenance
A deeper, high-gloss finish

We also completed:

New decals for a clean, updated look
Buffing and polishing on the underside of the boat
Gelcoat repairs along the keel and edges to eliminate voids and damage

Final Result

This Yellowfin went from a worn, high-maintenance boat to a fully restored, modernized vessel built to last.

Every detail—from structural repairs to finish work—was handled with precision to ensure both performance and appearance were dialed in.

Michael was extremely happy with how everything turned out, and the boat is now set up for years of easier upkeep and time on the water.

Michael's Review on Google:

"Craig and the team at Palmetto Marine Restorations did an outstanding job re‑gelcoating the sides of my hull and handling several other repairs. My 2008 34" Yellowfin now looks like a brand‑new boat and is ready for many more years of fishing. They were recommended to me by a charter captain friend, and now I see why. Craig is straightforward, reasonable, and easy to work with. Their crew does excellent, detailed work and keeps you updated on schedule and progress throughout the job. Highly recommend Palmetto Marine Restorations for anyone looking for high‑quality marine repair or restoration."