I have a 2001 Carver 396. I need to repair a portion of the vinyl headliner in the aft cabin. I received a $9,000 quote from a guy who was going to redo the ceiling using formica. I thought this was too high so I want to explore options for doing it myself. My current thought is to create two panels that run from side to side. This refreshes the ceiling and provides me with access to wiring, etc that is currently covered by the vinyl.

The shape is a trapezoid that is ~32" on each side; ~75" in the front; and ~80" at the other end. I am thinking about using marine vinyl with spray-on contact cement over formica for the two panels. This gives some rigidity and keeps a consistent vinyl look. I would trim it out with wood finished to match the existing Carver wood interior. My second option is to do the whole section with wood (probably tongue & grove sections) and finish it like the current interior. If I go the second route I don't think I will have the same access panel capability.

I appreciate your feedback, especially if it a simplier approach!