Bottom paint help

[rambilt]

Originally Posted by rb437

Ok so here's the deal. I have a choice between another season of sharing a boat ramp with a bunch of inexperienced, inconsiderate neighbors or I can rent a slip within walking distance from my home for $210.00 for the season. If I use the slip I need to paint the bottom. The bottom has never been painted before. I know some of you will cringe at the idea that I'm considering painting the boat, but that's what I'm considering. My questions are how should I paint a previously unpainted boat (sanding, priming?), and what kind of paint to use. I've done a little research but am a little confused by all the different kinds of paint. The boat would be in the brackish water of the mid Chesapeake Bay and be used weekly or at least 2-3 times per month. Winters will still be on the trailer. What do you guys think?

Happy Easter

Sorry for my ignorance, but why do you have to have the bottom of your boat painted to use a slip? I'm in the market for a boat and I normally shy away from the bottom painted boat even though it looks nice and priced right. Could someone please explain. Thanks.