With a totally solid boat and ability to reef down to tiny sails in a
blow you are more likely to enjoy heavy weather on an even keel.
Regardless, you can't go far wrong with a new Potter. If you are like
most of us, you will be putting bizarre options on it for the duration,
so I would not worry too much about adding additional gizmos now. Try
to visit other boats to see what things seem to be useful rather than
just in the way.
One last note, I just saw an HMS 18 for sale on the list (#38 or so as I
recall) for less than 4000. I have the same model, and if it is still
available and in even halfway good condition, I would consider getting
it NOW and pocketing all the rest of that cash for your own special
upgrades. Those old boats are built like tanks! (not to denigrate the
new boats, which are real nice). I was totally set on a new boat last
year, but a cruise in Greg Yu's HMS 18 and Jerry's recommendations
convinced me to go the used route. No regrets.
-Ron
HMS 18 #42 Bluebelle