Swampbug, hi there,
I know that you said you wouldnt fancy scratchbuilding, however, if you do fancy building from a Plan, have you ever thought of the Seaforth Clansman (plan number MM1308 - from My Hobbys store), which is similar to the one which you fancy - or the Star Perseus (plan number MM1361 - from My Hobby Store).
I cannot say much about the Star Perseus (construction wise) as I have never built that model - but, I have built the Seaforth Clansman - using a plank on frame hull and I managed to get several working features on that particular model. To give you some idea, I had the crane on the aft deck fully working Jib raising, lowering and slewing, plus the hook up/down. The diving bell lowering/lifting - and fire monitors working. Also independent bow and stern thruster working. Bearing in mind this was a while ago and I used 'Bob boards' to control the bow thrusters, crane movement & etc. Now,.... with todays technology - incorporating all of these working features would be a doddle. Especially, as after I had built the plank on frame hull, one can now purchase a 'vac' formed hull for the Clansm,an (again from My Hobby Store) not sure of the price of it.
Some food for thought....
aye
john