Both, depending on the boat and the era as shown below. I may be able to give a better answer if you can provide a serial number or the model and year.
Benson,
It’s a 1937 16’ Square Stern.
I just put a replica canoe decal on it, but then started to wonder if boats had a separate deck decal.
I wonder if boat decals are available anywhere....
According to the instructions that came with the one I purchased, they go on over the varnish and weren't varnished over. So if you are inquiring for that beautiful squared-stern, sponson covered boat that you posted a picture of yesterday it's not too late!
Shari,
The one in the photos is long gone and being enjoyed by third and forth generations. It had a replica Old Town Canoe decal on it. I suppose it was appropriate because the model name for that one was “Old Town Square Stern Paddling Canoe”.
The boat in question in my post here is a Old Town Square Stern. Sorta misleading because it is a full blown 16’ row boat and not like yours or the one I restored previously.
It’s a 1937 16’ Square Stern.
I just put a replica canoe decal on it, but then started to wonder if boats had a separate deck decal.
I wonder if boat decals are available anywhere....
It could have originally had a canoe decal or a boat decal as shown below from a similar 1941 Sportboat. I don't know of anyone who has reproduced these decals.