I own a Bayliner, they are OK if you rebuild them. Perfectly fine for close to shore work. But if I had the money I'd dump it for a Regulator dont get me wrong. I work on all the above mentioned boats a lot. I am amazed that their are people who sail around the world in Catalina 27's and survive. Ever pull apart the hull to deck joint on a Pearson? After doing so I don't want to leave the sound on one.
Island Packets and their ilk are very nice boats, if you want to cruise they are great. I'd take one around the world, without a second thought.
I do want to cruise a lot one day, when I do it will be on a Hallberg Rassy or a Swan. I want a heavy boat that can move, to outrun and avoid weather.
I know a German couple who recently crossed the Atlantic in their Hallberg Rassy 46. The trip was uneventfull. My friend had tons of offshore miles on the Swan, some in horrible conditions. IE the boat was knocked on her side, total knock down!
