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Trying to Paint The Decks While Battling Endless Rain in Malaysia - REFIT SERIES
December 22, 2025 · 20 min · 22K views · Rebak Marina, Langkawi
Man paints sailboat deck under overcast Malaysian sky
What this video covers
James hauls out Triteia, an Alberg 30, at Reebok Marina and Boatyard on Reebok Island in Langkawi, Malaysia, during a mid-circumnavigation refit after 18,000 miles from Los Angeles.0:30 The central obstacle is near-daily rain through late November during what research indicated should be the dry season — a La Niña year that produced roughly one rain-free day in the entire month.15:07
Deck painting drives the episode. James initially applies International Toplac black, which a Yacht Supplies Langkawi staff member recommended for decks; the paint performs poorly, leaving a dark tarnish and thin coverage even without added thinner.12:19 He switches to Jotun white industrial paint, thinned 10%, and ultimately gets three coats on the forward and aft decks.12:42 The dodger receives a separate coat. Rain interrupts multiple sessions, forcing him to gamble on weather windows and push hard on clear days.11:26
Interior work fills rain days: cabin painting, Epifanes rubbed-effect satin varnish on brightwork, galley demolition including sink removal, and a full countertop replacement with fold-away faucets.17:15 The companionway steps still need sanding and teak cleaner treatment.16:56 James rents a tube hotel room in Langkawi for $106 for seven days — chosen for proximity to the ferry dock and air conditioning — because cabin fumes and displaced gear leave no sleeping space aboard.1:31
Verify paint suitability for decks directly rather than relying on chandlery staff recommendations.
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