Hi Jd... Don't be buffaloed by those folks who claim to manufacture 'blue water' boats. The only reliable source for what is 'blue water' and what isn't are folks who have sailed significant distances
offshore in all kinds of
weather and sea conditions. The weekend sailor at the club or the the buoy
racer is not necessarily the right person to ask. If they have done a couple of Transpac's, Vic-Maui or
ARC races then listen closely to them.
During my years as a
delivery skipper I sailed many 'blue water' described vessels that were better suited for lake sailing and other reputed to be
dogs that sailed well, remained dry and had a minimum of
gear failures.
There are many regular posters here who would be glad to advise you... Good Luck, Phil