METAN MARINE: FROM BACKYARD SHED TO INDUSTRY BENCHMARK
Metan Marine Relies on Awlgrip for Flawless Finishes and Lasting Results
Delivering world-class yacht restorations with Awlcraft 2000 and Awlcraft 3000.
Nearly three decades ago, former trainee car mechanic Mike Borrelli turned a backyard shed into the first workshop for Metan Marine. Inspired by his time aboard a fishing boat in Scituate, Massachusetts, he teamed up with his father and a friend to bring his passion for boat restoration to life.
Today, Metan Marine has grown into one of the most respected yacht restoration specialists in the United States. From its 150-foot facility, the team delivers world-class results on vessels valued at up to $150 million and has earned a loyal following from thousands of YouTube viewers who admire its craftsmanship.
Behind every project, one thing has stayed the same: the unmatched performance of Awlgrip® coatings, trusted by Mike and his team since day one.
Building success on craftsmanship and chemistry
For Mike Borrelli, Awlgrip has been central to Metan Marine’s success story, a partnership built on trust, knowledge, and shared dedication to quality.
“I have always used Awlgrip for all my boats. I will never forget rep Steve Smith pulling into my driveway on my second project. He was an absolute book of knowledge and such a kind gentleman.”
Coming from an automotive background, Mike was used to base coat, clearcoat, and enamel systems, but Awlgrip opened up a new level of performance and precision.
“I was used to the automotive industry, where it was base coat, clearcoat and enamel over it. Steve took the time to explain the difference between linear urethanes and acrylic urethane, and how the clear rises to the surface during the cure process.”
Perfecting the finish
After making the switch, Mike quickly saw the benefits of Awlgrip premium polyurethane finishes, known for their ease of application and outstanding gloss retention.
“For years you could not wet sand and buff using linear urethane finishes because you would break the surface,” he said. “Awlcraft® 2000 changed that, by allowing the new coat to melt into the previous layer during wet sanding, enabling polishing to the point you would not even know the repair is there.”
Today, Metan Marine applies the latest topcoat technology, Awlcraft® 3000, combined with AkzoNobel’s advanced color platform, to deliver flawless results at scale.
“We have just completed one of the longest paint runs ever, using both spray booths on five projects for 120 boats. The feedback on the Awlgrip finish and durability has been unbelievable.”
Featured at IBEX 2025
At the IBEX 2025 show in Tampa, Florida, Mike joined AkzoNobel Yacht Coatings to share his story and passion for Awlgrip with the marine industry. In his interview at the AkzoNobel booth, he discussed how the partnership has evolved over nearly 30 years, and why Awlgrip continues to be his coating of choice for achieving flawless, long-lasting finishes.
Continuing the partnership
From humble beginnings to international acclaim, Metan Marine’s journey is one of grit, innovation, and excellence, supported every step of the way by Awlgrip coatings.
“Awlgrip has been with us from day one. It is more than a product. It is a partnership that allows us to deliver the best possible results for our customers.”
Ready to simplify your coatings process?
With our global network of technical support representatives and an expansive distribution footprint, we're here to help support your project's needs.
Contact your local sales representative or nearest distributor today.