There is something special about taking a well-loved vessel and giving it a second life. It requires patience, skill, and the right materials. But when you add a family bond to the mix, the project becomes even more impressive.

Today, we are thrilled to feature a remarkable father-and-son project completed by PJ and Clayton. Between August and October 2025, this duo tackled a massive refurbishment of a Carolina Skiff 24'DLV. The results speak for themselves, showcasing what is possible with hard work and high-quality gelcoat.

A Labor of Love: The Refurbishment Process

Restoring a boat is rarely a straightforward weekend task. It involves grinding, sanding, prepping, and applying layers of new finish to ensure the hull is protected and looking its best.

For this specific project, PJ and Clayton leaned on some excellent resources to get the job done right. They gave a well-deserved shout-out to Fish Bump TV for the guidance and content that helps DIYers navigate complex marine projects. Additionally, they sourced materials from Fiberglass Warehouse, ensuring they had the supplies needed for a durable finish.

The standout feature of this restoration is the finish. The team used Roberts Gray Gelcoat to give the skiff a sleek, modern, and clean look. PJ and Clayton managed to pull off a professional-grade application that completely revitalized the boat's appearance.

Visualizing the Transformation

The Prep Work
Every great finish starts with preparation. You can see the dedication in the early stages, where the old surfaces were prepped and readied for the new materials. This stage is crucial for adhesion and ensuring the Roberts Gray Gelcoat lays down smooth.

The Application
Applying gelcoat requires a steady hand and attention to detail. The choice of Roberts Gray was excellent for this hull, providing a classic aesthetic that looks sharp on the water.

The Final Result
The finished Carolina Skiff 24'DLV looks brand new. The transition from a tired hull to a gleaming, water-ready vessel is a testament to the effort PJ and Clayton put in over those three months.

Ready for the Water

We want to extend a huge congratulations to PJ and Clayton on a job well done. Completing a project of this scale in just three months is no small feat, and doing it as a father-son team makes the outcome even sweeter. The Carolina Skiff 24'DLV is now ready for years of fishing and cruising, sporting a finish that looks like it just rolled out of the factory.

If you have been thinking about starting your own restoration project, let this be your sign to get started. With the right resources, you can achieve similar results.

Do you have a project you’re working on? We’d love to see it!