Buffing/Waxing advice. You can thank me later!

Did that yesterday on a "test spot"...30 year old gel-coat..Big difference:

The only thing "Ancientmariner" has to do with, is knowing what several other Forum members have said. If a very fine, light sanding will restore the gloss, then use 1000 to 2000 grit wet paper. If the exposure damage is worse than this light, wet sanding, and polish will restore, then go to a SLOW moving orbital sander constantly in motion from all directions. If it is necessary to continue with more serious repair, use a wool buffing wheel with a compound from 3M, or others, and a wool/synthetic blend wheel for polishing when the surface has been buffed out. Don't exceed 2000-2400 rpm and don't dwell on one spot. Stay in constant motion. Serious cracks in the hull from flexing or impact, and deck cracks from the same sources or where hardware is attached are a whole other story. If you enjoy patient, detail work and have a good eye for matching hull/deck colors, all of this restoration to repair work can be a lot of fun.