Jim,
Some other boats used frequently in the ARC are the Jeanneau Sun Fast 37's, a deeper keel/taller mast of the sun odyssey
line. There is also an SF40 too.
An owner of the local Jeanneau dealer took 2" yrs to go around the pacific with an SO49iP. No issues either.
It comes down to what type of boat, handling etc you are looking for. If you got a 40.7 or 44.7 and did the ARC, then panama canal, then back to Portland up the west coast, I believe with some proper planning, you will not have major issues.
Some of the Chevy type boats will do just fine in most conditions. Now try to sail thru a Katrina........think you will have some problems, even in that 4'thick hulled boat Alex is trying to sell you!
marty