Cedar is difficult, especially on a deck. The stain needs to be UV resistant and trafficable. It needs to put up with things like driving rain and snow accumulation, as well as long hot days. Anything you use will need re-applying regularly. At worst, every year. At best, every three to four years.

I like Sansin Dec

It’s a two coat, high quality finish

I feel like I have seen that cat somewhere before, but I don’t recognise them with their mask on