thankfully lots of info on the bristols. It's 100% factory cockpit, but no bridgedeck (mines a '75, not sure when they changed cockpit design. allowed for more interior and the companionway is nice, but takes the seaworthiness away. leaving a board in helps that, but isn't a terrific fix... I've checked out the bristol community for some time. Figured I'd check this side out. I know some ariels have made similar voyages I intend with happy success, but I've yet to find a person in the know who doesn't support the bristol. Lots of people speak highly.