Replace rod rigging or switch to wire?

[Eyr]

Hi all,

I have a Bene First 45f5 from 1990. The standing rigging is rod and most likely original and as such due for replacement. I have talked to a few riggers and they say change it all, no point in trying to save costs by reusing some of the rod. And quote me USD 10.500 for the job. A lot of money.
Talked to my sailmaker today and he suggested to make the switch to 19x1 wire seeing as the boat is used mainly for cruising and not regatta, and that if I get som help to pull the mast I should be able to make the switch myself.

Can you offer me some advice? We are planning/hoping to do a trip from Northern Europe, down to Spain and over to the Caribbean and back to Europe, maybe as early as this year and I really want the rigging to be ready for it...

Thanks for any advice!