Yes there is a difference between stain and oil.
We use teak oil on the swim platform of the Bertram.
We use Epiphanes on the Bertram's flybridge treads and teak around the bulkhead. Epiphanes that we use is varnish.
I believe stain is usually used to color wood to a desired tint and then it sealed with polyurethane or varnish.
The teak oil is used after the teak surface has been cleaned and prepped.
Most companies have a three part system for teak oil etc.
We use Starbrite's teak treatment on the swim platform.
http://www.defender.com/product3.jsp...03300&id=13590