Caribbean cruising on an Endeavour 33

[tharper]

I'm looking at an E33 now. I'd like to hear any owners satisfaction level with their boat and if it's a boat they would recommend.
I am taking a year off to cruise the carib. I will start from Tampa and cross to Isla Mujeres and then slowly head south. I'd like to make it at least as far as Cartagena. I'll be laying up until nice weather permits and then taking a few day crossing to the next port to layup.
Would E33 would be up to and an appropriate choice for such a sail?
I've read about the iron "I" beam mast step rusting issue so I'll look at that seriously, but are there any other problem areas?
The PHRF rating is between 156-165 which would lead me to expect is to be an acceptable performer. But on many of the owners reviews they often refer to the E33 as a somewhat poor performer. What do other owners think of their boats performance qualities?
I'd appreciate any feedback.