Howd'y

Getting into sailing, have crewed prior on Syd Harbour for a couple seasons...a few years ago.
Now doing the text book thing, Com Crew Course, followed by Coastal Skipper. And will get my name down to crew some off shore stuff (anyone?)

Looking for a weekender for the wife and I (she is also doing Skipper, however no interest in racing), to eventually gain enough experience to go cruising (Nth Queensland, Caribbean, Med on Charters or eventually our larger boat)

Thinking about a 1/2 to full keel for stability, and safety while kooking it around in Pittwater, Sydney Harbour or maybe some little coastal runs north.

Since we do many sports that involve getting to a patch of sand (Kitesurfing/surfing/SUP etc) do we get some sort of retractable keel so we can get in closer to the shore or generally in shallower waters..or is the weight and stability of a piece of lead the key for learning and safety???

Boats on the list in order of preference are as follows:

Tophat Mark 3 25'
Sonata 25'
Duncanson 25 & Adams 26
or chip in a little more and get a Roberts Adventure 25-26'

Question with the Tophat though, the traveller is on top of the cockpit hatch, which is great for access around the cockpit, however what are the disadvantages? Why don't others do this? Some are right in the way of the tiller...and others are right in the entrance to the cabin...anyone care to explain?

Older inboard diesels vs newer outboards?

Inboard - Older..expensive..stinky...economical, has alternator, not in the way?
Outboard - Fuel, easy to service, out in the weather

Any advise, suggestions on any of above or any other info gladly welcome

And/or any other recommendations for 25 - 30 foot boats in the $10-20K Bracket

Cheers

Cabron