[amphibious]

i am wanting some input from columbia 45 owner or sailors. i have lots of motor boat time but very little sail time. me and my girlfriend live in maui an are wanting to live aboard on hook. the plan is to live aboard and sail for 3 year in hawaii. then take off south for several years.
i love the aft cabin of the 45 and it looks like a great live aboard. the question is how is it in blue water cruising. also is their any other issues with the columbia 45. if their is a better boat in the 50k range i am all ears.

mahalo you for your input jack