All I know about saltwater boats is what I read and owners tell me and how other people's boats feel on the water, so take this for what it's worth.

You might check out Silver Streak welded aluminum boats made up in Sooke. We fished out of a 24' up in AK this summer and it was a sweet ride. And at least half the cost of an Almar. Your American dollar will go a long way and the aluminum makes for a lot less maintenance.

Silver Streak boats

They're worth a look.

Bruce