Best Upwind , Blue Water Cat ?

[Cruising Couple]

Here is our situation:

My husband is a VERY experienced, intuitive, lifelong sailor. He has always sailed monohuls. I still have much to learn. We are just starting to consider a catamaran. We are interested in cruising blue water, ultimately full-time. So far, he is most impressed with the Catana at the dock. We have not sailed a cruising cat yet.

My questions for those who know, and I know there won't be an agreement, but maybe a consensus. How naive of me, right?! LOL

1.What is the best catamaran for sailing blue water AND for sailing upwind?

2. Am I correct in assuming that the best catamaran for sailing upwind WILL have daggerboards?

Thanks all!
Darby