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Hello everyone.

Recently purchased a 1968, 16fter. I am in the process of removing barnacles, sanding, and painting. The boat has been re-foamed and for the most part, well maintained. fiberglass is solid and no bubbles found. I have one question and can guess what everyone with a classic whaler is going to say.

On the exterior above the waterline are tiny, vertical spider cracks in the gelcoat. They do not appear to be penetrating to the fiberglass. Checked the depth with a needle. Thought this may have been the result of re-foaming and causing pressure on the hull, or the fact that its an old whaler.

Some people say some cracks are better left alone. Unless they become a larger problem.

Have a good amount of work to do, but is achievable by my man power. I am not looking to restore this boat to original (Sorry I know), but love whalers for the TANK they are. Is there a way around grinding them out, it would take me years to do so?

Im a chef, not an English major. Sorry for grammer.