Graphics Removal

I am looking at having my gel coat professionally polished but I want to take the graphics off prior to bringing it to someone. I've already tried heat with a heat gun but the boat, being 15 years old, is reluctant to give them up. I'm afraid too much heat will create other problems. The other option I haven't tried yet is automotive vinyl wood grain remover from 3M. It looks messy and I'm not sure what it might do to the gel coat, or how effective it is.
Any ideas?

Also, what is everyones opinion on what refinishing method, other then paint or re-gelcoating, would provide the longest lasting and best results. The gel coat is in excellent condition but the teal and grey are showing signs of sun damage and require repeated buffing and waxing. No matter how much buffing I do gets the color to match areas that show the original color where I successfully removed some graphics.

That's what I'm finding out.Thanks
If anyone is interested the 3M vinyl remover has absolutely no effect

Eraiser wheel from your local auto body supply shop. put iton the end of your drill or on a 90 angle grinder. it will take off the vinyl decals and all the glue in one shot. go slow and work small areas at a time. heat gun also but if they just tear then go with the wheel.