[captainchetco]

The Albergs and Pearsons mentioned are indeed sound boats that sail well. Their downsides are: They sail on their ear which reduces their comfortability and their shape makes for poor use of interior spaces.

Their are lots of great cruising boats; Valiant is one of the best, as it is strong, comfortable and comparably fast yet very seaworthy. Don't forget the creelock/Pacific Seacraft boats, Gulfstars are a lesser known excellent cruiser which gives good stowage and decent speed, particularly upwind. The list of good cruisers is long and highly variable. I would however avoid the downwind planing hull designs as they are abastard going into a sea.

As someone noted, nearly any boat can be taken cruising, but some are better than others. I prefer sufficient speed and pointing ability that I can make port and ride out the storm at the yacht club bar.