Going around the horn on your own boat may be perfect for you but first before buying a boat spend some energy on crewed charter boats, on the water sailing classes ( coastal and blue water) from multiple sources so you can get the boat that fits your needs the first time. Reading and classroom education is great but there is a huge advantage to being at sea personally experiencing your vision before spending big bucks and or big time on the wrong for you boat. Just my 2 cents of an opinionated old guy.
Tom Evans
SV Tappan Zee
Alameda Ca