I will certainly have a Controller/Regulator, the question was is the sophisticated MPPT an obvious choice, after further research and comments from here, I don't think so, not with this small set-up, likely very little difference will I see. Probably will go with MorningStar's Sun Saver 10 with the Low Voltage Disconnect, somewhere around $60. I also don't want to monkey with the possibility of an MPPT interfering with the SSB and/or VHF. And I'll likely go with 10g wire, which will be more than ample, I probably have about 20 feet from Panel to Controller/Bat Switch.

Larry, your point about shadow was well taken, I'd considered this, thanks. With the boat primarily facing NE to SE, I'll have my Hoop a bit higher than the Radome which will put the Panel about even with the top of that GPS antenna to starboard, and hopefully have no shadow. Nevertheless its main purpose for keeping me topped off while not on-board, and anything we get while sailing is gravy. That will also allow me to fasten the Panel to the Hoop with swiveling SeaStow or AFI Rail Clamps, so I can tilt the Panel fore & aft a fair bit if I want. When the boat is unattended, she will be at a place where no loads will be necessary, not even an anchor light, except the tiny mA of indicators lights on a couple electronics.

Finding a small Panel that'll fit my install so far a bit of a challenge, am finding not many manufacturers make them this size, I need about a 24" square Panel or thereabouts. So far I've only come up with a UL Solar and Solarland panel.

Thanks again, cheers, John