I went with the general concensus of using a softer finish for the soft wood. Used a spar varnish and it turned out nice, with the exception of a few dust nibs or crytals that seemed to come from nowhere.

Can I wet sand and rub them out of a spar vanish? I know it is soft, and I've only ever done that (wet sand, rottenstone) with laquer and shellac finishes.

It is satin spar, and I want it satin, but would like to just give the top a light sanding and get rid of the nibs. I would also like to avoid wax, depending on your suggestions so I don't get white rings from water. Any suggestions and or tips?