I recenty purchased a 30" 1971 Gibson Houseboat, got to looking it over and found I am having some water problems with the engine and hatch cover. Discovered some rot going on with the rain gutters, I would like to do away with the original wood in the rain gutters and hatch cover. Any help or suggestion as to how I can repair this would be appreciated.

Marine

Considering the boat is 35 years old and the original lasted this long it might be wise to go back with original materials. These are the easiest materials to work with and some day you will sell the boat. The buyers generally like to see stock boats restored to original condition rather than a non stock repair. (even if it's superior to the original). The hardest thing in Gibson restorations is matching the spots on the deck.
OLD HOUSEBOATER38838.2802314815

Marine, I've got a 1975 42 ft Gibson I'm making these same repairs to right now. Old Houseboater is 100% correct on both points. These materials are the easiest to work with and easy to obtain. Your boat boat will be worth a lot more if you just restore as apposed to modifying. You have nothing to worry about as far as the repairs being strong enough or lasting as long as you do good fiberglass work. The only hard part, as OHB said, is matching the original finish.

Tonka