1970 Van de Stadt 30 for sale in NEWPORT, New South Wales

Classic Performance Meets Timeless Design by Van de Stadt

Step aboard a true classic with pedigree. Designed in 1957 by legendary Dutch naval architect E.G. van de Stadt—one of the pioneers of modern lightweight offshore yacht design—the iconic Black Soo design delivers a rare combination of performance, simplicity, and enduring style.

Built locally at Church Point by respected boatbuilder Alec Mitchell, this is a standout example of this revolutionary design, blending classic craftsmanship with thoughtful modern upgrades.

Why the Van de Stadt BRIGHTWATER Stands Out

Proven hard-chine hull design for speed and stability offshore. Lightweight yet robust plywood construction. A design born in the golden era of yacht innovation. Exciting sailing performance with timeless appeal.

Vessel Highlights

Construction: ½-inch Bruynzeel marine plywood, Dynel sheathed. Hull Form: Hard chine with angled stem and elegant cambered transom. Keel: Cast iron ballast.

Powering the boat is a near-new 17hp Sole diesel engine (shaft drive) with just 82 hours—recently serviced and running beautifully. Reliable, efficient, and ready to go.

Upgrades & Improvements

Standing rigging replaced (2017). Hull professionally repainted (2021) in durable two-pack polyurethane. It has a Raymarine ST 1000+ for comfortable cruising. These upgrades bring peace of mind while preserving the integrity and charm of the original design.

On Deck & Sailing Setup

Aluminium mast and boom with stainless steel rigging. Well-equipped sail wardrobe (approx. 6 years old), including: Battened mainsail with boom bag & lazy jacks, #1, #2, #3 hank-on jibs.

Interior & Accommodation

Below deck, BRIGHTWATER offers a simple, open-plan layout with excellent natural light and ventilation—perfect for relaxed coastal cruising. Sleeps up to 4 people and has a functional galley with water and butane stove on a gimbal. Clever cockpit infill creates a generous double berth under the stars, ideal for warm summer nights.

BRIGHTWATER offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of sailing history; an engaging, lightweight performer that's equally at home club racing, coastal cruising, or simply turning heads wherever she goes.