Paint, the profile of the forward hatch doesn't look like it's any higher then it would have been originally... Might be a wrap too, but, IMO, definitely not real wood....Does this look like real wood on the bow ? Or paint ...
https://jacksonville.craigslist.org/boa/5037923798.html
I think that's a good idea, the wood inlay. Those are some sharp wood boats posted in that link. It will be interesting to see what suggestions are made for wood on glass, I'll be watching this build for sure. Good luck