I’m replacing the floor boards over my bilge areas. Going from a piece of painted marine ply to solid white oak and Sapele.  I want a finish but not a high shine that a varnish will give.  Will tongue oil (something good like Old Masters brand) hold up for this application?  I am aware that these board will age due to us walking on them.  

What are some suggestions?

Hello Bryon,

Tung oil's great stuff but I've found that it can be a dust catcher and may start to look a little dirty over time. It can also be spontaneously combustible so make sure you dispose of any rags properly. I recently re-did the entire sole in our W32, I used 3 coats of a water based satin polyurethane, we think it has just right shine, non-slippery, and super durable.

Good luck with your project.. Don

Bryon, 

I used a water based polyurethane to re-finish my cabin sole 7 years ago.  My sole boards are traditional Teak with Ash.  The finish has held up quite well and is just now getting to the point where I may consider a light sanding and re-coat.

Kevin