[Paddlewise] Spider cracks in my new Romany

Last night I found some spider cracks in the gelcoat of my fiberglass NDK Romany
Explorer.

These cracks seem to have developed since I purchased the boat new exactly one year
ago. They form about a 1.5 inch diameter circle at the moment. They are located
beside the front hatch and just below the seam.

The boat has not suffered any impact damage since I bought it. There is no evidence
the boat has been struck at that point.

My boat has led a very gentle life so far, and has never been subjected to heavy
stress.

I don't understand why these cracks have developed.

Is this sort of thing common on fiberglass boats?

Should I be concerned? Will the cracks widen and spread across the hull? Will these
cracks lead to leaking?

I'd appreciate any advice on how to deal with this problem.

Thanks,

Bruce

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