Thanks to everyone for such helpful input.
I hadn't looked at Skua but I do like the design and it may work. I lean toward open deck designs because it's less to build but also because I'm tall (6'4") and think that I'd rather have less windage and more open space than another confined space to bang my head into.
Would you say Skua would be any less hours & money to build than Gypsy? How about Windsong - the comment about the hobbyhorse effect is well taken but I think the same is said about Wharrams but they seem to perform well enough from what I've read.
And the reasoning not to just trailor the cat down to the gulf is that I'd build it here, close to the Tennessee river while I'm still working then move aboard and head south to the ocean. The boat would become my home for the next couple years.
Thanks again!