As usual, John makes some good points. The one point that I forgot about is
fuel capacity. For longer cruising, I have always carried a couple of jerry jugs of diesel, which puts me up at the capacity of the std keel. I consider that a small trade-off for the peace of mind of less draft. But, either way, if you were going to cross oceans in a 31, you would need jerry jugs.
In the end, you have to be realistic about what kind of sailing you are really going to do. I think I made the right choice because when I bought Asylum, I had no idea I would end up living on Pamlico Sound. I have seen people sell their boats after they moved here because the draft they had on Long Island Sound, just wouldn't work here.
Larry
ASYLUM