What a wonderfully helpful thread, addressing exactly the question I
posed - but with some interesting alternatives worth considering!

Thanks to Worldwide Wiley (Yes its an SC22 - my brainfart)
Rosalie B., BF, 2462, Thomas W., Wayne B., Roger Long, Jeff,
GM1234, Don White, DSK, DB Ohara, Glenn Ashmore,

I heard the Bimini rush idea, the island hopping proposal, the Maine
cruise (pity its so far) the reading list, and above all the
appropriate season for sailing out, and the weather/wind/fetch
warnings.
Thank you all.

Brian Whatcott and Richard Whatcott