M_Boats: Big water in the M23

I am obviously being hit with a case of spring sailing insanity. I need to go on a trip with my 23, yes NEED. My concerns are the retractable keel, should I find a way to be able to lock it in the down position? Do I go through the Great Lakes and down the coast or trailer it to Florida and hit the Carib? Just sitting here dreaming.......comments welcome Theo M23 "Port Reduction"