Originally Posted by Shane

Wet sanding the bottom will enhance speed. Most race boats do this. I had done it to the Skater prior the increased drag co-efficient experienced on Lake Champlain. Once that was fixed and painted I have waxed it to keep it shiny.

By wet sanding the bottom with high grit paper, you are reducing drag considerably. Wax creates a suction effect. Take a piece of paper, wet a waxed surface like a table and lay the paper on it and watch what happens. That is essentially what happens on the bottom of your boat. After waxing the bottom of the skater I noticed a significant "sticking" sensation. Again, keep in mind it had just been painted and wanted to protect it. The few miles per hour lost is not worth the other issues like crud sticking to the bottom etc.