I would recommend you follow Mark's very sound advice.
I built a Billings Mercantic (plank on frame with Cascamite) many years ago. Over time the planks split either side of the glue line. I had also followed the instructions but now cover all my wooden hulls as suggested. So much easier to do when building than several years later with all the paint removal and replacement of rotted wood.
Good luck with the boat
Dave

Hi Mate, welcome to the forum, First of all there is no such thing as newby question, only what you dont know or are uncertain.

I would always resin cover the hull, added strength etc, less chance of dings. But, glass cloth or borrow the wifes tights!!! all good for the hull, Resin I have used polyester resin in the past but i now use epoxy layup resin, comes with different time hardeners, or the resin from delux, cant remember the name is water based, (very little smell)
I would also pore resin inside the hull as a sealant (between bulkheads and roll the hull around to spread the resin over your planking, also great as you mention its a steam tug so oil etc wont affect the hull.
Finish is down to detail sanding and filling, if its smooth to start with it will be far easier to get a smooth finish.

Hope this has given you some guidance, shout again if you need more.

PS. if your looking for a club, have a look at Etherow MBC we are in Romiley, just out of Stockport

Regards

Mark