Cruising

[jpcraw]

I am in the process of looking for a sailboat to call home and start the planning process of the big cruise. I live in Southern California and hope to do some extensive cruising in the South Pacific. I have started to do some homework in the hopes of finding the perfect boat...which I already know doesn't exist...that will make me confident enough to cast off my docklines. I think I want a full keeled boat, in the 30-36' range (leaning more towards 30). There are many more characteristics that I am looking for such as small cockpit, high companionway opening, etc...too many to list. Shoestring budget, well read and constantly gaining sailing skills and confidence over the past 5+ years...hope to leave in 5- years. Considering $20-30k budget to buy boat (finance???) and get to know/improve every aspect of it over the next 5- years.

Any advice?
I have looked at a couple of Willards but can't find any info on them online, and also some Downeast 32's. Any opinions/experience/warnings for these 2 boats or any others recommended or to steer clear of for the dream I hope to make a reality?