So, Mr Gazer, it seems that you are planning the same trip for which Full Circle was purchased.
Having linked this thread with your other thread on liveaboard about canals, you will of course also take beam and air draught into account.
I also have a need for the ability to motor at 8knots clean bottomed, as we are planning to take the inland waterways route right down to the Black Sea, which puts us nearly in Greece/ Turkey without all the aggro of full up western Med marinas. Thr major rivers flow at quite a rate...
Also note that FC was chosen because it is under 11x3.5m so marina berths are more available than anything 12 - 14m.
The ability to dry out, but not particularly worry about stuff jamming the box and thus the plate, which is why I favoured the stub wing and plate arrangement on the Jeanneau. Also the rudder does not have to be lifted, as it is reinforced and forms the 3 point standing, 2 rudders and a keel. Note that we now normally sail around plate up in less than a F4-5.
Draught for us loaded is 1.2m which is fine. Also it helps to be able to get alongside the banks too.
The AVS is identical to its deep finned cousin, but displaces more in the ballast due to the keel arrangement. It appears to be steady in weather, but I havent tried it yet in Sea Serpent territory.
As it also fitted the budget, I commend you to the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 35, but also commend you to get one pre-2006, as they have changed the spec on flooring and upholstery to save a few quid.
I look forward to a healthy consultation fee in the pub at your earliest convenience.
Full Circle is not now, or at any other time (in the forseeable), for sale.
Other products are available.