[dpinorm]

From experience, I agree with the previous post regarding motion. Add to that my personal preference for performance and the carbon rig and light ends is an obvious conclusion for me.

There are two basic categories of modifications:

1) Those for the Admiral, like washer/dryer, ice maker, extra cabinets, custom fabrics etc. They always get done!

2) Those for the Captain. They get done with what’s left after 1).

I modify things like refrigeration, electric power production and management, and electronics. Not always because they aren’t satisfactory the way they come, but just because after all these years I’m used to doing things in a way that works for me.

Spars, standing/running rigging, safety equipment and sails are the things that take up most of my effort. Especially on a carbon rig, it’s not easy to add things that aren’t designed in from the beginning.

My advice would be to read what you can, look at other boats and talk to their owners, and talk to vendors. In the end, I think the best route is to select vendors you trust and have them help you with your selections.