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Definitely have to go with marine grade stain, stay away from anything that's not rated for marine use or you'll be doing it every other month. I don't have a specific brand in mind, but take a trip to your local boating store/marina and ask around, they'll have some in mind.
I have to paint mine after a lot of sanding and wood fill this month, hoping to have it done at the same time as the engine.
when you say 'paint' are you talking about actually covering over that beautiful oak with paint, or are you talking about preserving it and protecting it so the beauty of the wood shows through?
If the first, I don't want to know about it.
If the second, then you can use a good marine varnish, or a good quality oil based stain/preservative. Minwax makes some good oil based preservatives.
You could use Thompsons Water Seal as well.