There are lots of products out there that claim to protect your seats, dashboard and all things plastic and vinyl. Some provide a bit of protection, some don't help much at all. Then we have 303 Protectant. I don't sell or make anything off this stuff, but it is amazing.

I bought a used 1989 Regal Commodore 36 foot cruiser, and when I bought it the white hull was chalky looking and the maroon upper gel coat was faded and looked milky. I tried professional polishing compounds, polishes and waxing and believe me, laying on your back with an electric buffer for several days is really no fun. Especially when after several weeks the boat starts looking like you never touched it at all! 

I received a small sample of 303 and tried it on the vinyl seats and was very pleased at how they don't get greasy or slimy, yet stayed shiny, soft and supple in the harsh sun and salt environment. Then, just to try it, I sprayed the 303 on a small spot on the transom and allowed it to sit for awhile. WOW! I was amazed at how it made the gel coat come to life and gave it depth and sparkle again. I bought a gallon and did the entire hull in about two hours! Not two days, just two hours! People were amazed at how the boat looked and when I told them how easy it was, the local marine store had a run on the stuff.

One trick I found was to spray a relatively heavy mist of 303 Protectant on the hull and immediately spread it with a cloth to even it out. Then, don't wipe off the excess as the bottle states, but allow it to sink into the fiberglass. The streaks disappeared over about 6 to 8 hours, and it made the hull look great. It lasts at least several months before needing it again, this on a boat that was kept in the water 12 months a year.

Be careful if you use this on the decks, as it will make them very slippery. It's not recommended for walking surfaces so using it there would be at your own risk. I used it on areas where I didn't walk and, again, it was great. Also note that it works to help preserve other plastics as well.

As a note, nothing will ever make your faded gel coat look just like it came out of the factory. Sun and the environment are harsh enemies that have to be constantly fought off to keep a surface looking good. If you start when it's new, it will stay looking new, but after fading takes place, nothing brings back the original luster completely. As good as this product is, it won't make a surface that has been neglected in the sun and weather without care look like a brand new boat. Nothing will.

303 Protectant is also great for car dashes and vinyl seats and trim. Just don't get it anywhere on the floors or on a walking surface as it will make it very slippery. 303 also makes protectant for showers that seems very much the same as the original 303 Protectant, but has a fresh lemony scent. I've tried that too and it makes keeping the shower clean easier, since soap scum won't stick to it. Just remember the slippery floor issue and be careful.

Be safe and enjoy your leisure time!