Cisco owned a steel VDS 34. I'm sure he will be along shortly.

I owned a VDS 34 for 7 years but unfortunately never got it out of the yard where i bought. It was flooded and filled with mud in 2013 floods which made it unviable for me to continue owning it. I sold it to the yard for $300.

It was the original design configuration of deep keel with spade rudder which I believe would be the best performer. I have never sailed on one but have spoken to some who have who only have praise for them. From what I have heard there is little difference in performance between the keel options.

They are a performance yacht easily managed short handed with generous accommodation usually only found in larger yachts. There are a few for sale in steel, ally and timber/glass composite.

The last two here are not the same design as the others which are "VDS 34s". I would own "Temujin" in a heart beat were I in the market.

www.boatsonline.com.au/boats-for-sale/sail-monohulls/van-de-stadt/used/?listed=Select+When+Listed&hull_material=All&Lengthfrom=10.05&Lengthto=10.66&feetfrom=33&feetto=35&price_from=1&price_to=1000000000&match=all+words

Hi MrBohemian,
Most of the Van De Stadt's had a reputation for sea keeping ability and good daily runs. Many were constructed privately so a bit of research/homework would be a good thing if you found one you liked.
There are quite a few decent boats in your price range out there and a lot of bargains about.
Because of where you live you have a good opportunity to look at a good proportion of the market and the first thing you will notice is the huge difference in value for money between similar boats.
Take your time and do your research and you will find something that suits you.
There are a few members of this forum who have recently bought boats who have travelled considerable distances to find what they were looking for so if you dont find what you want in your area be prepared to look further afield. It could well be worth it in the long run.
In your post you havent mentioned how much experience you have, it can make a big difference when you are looking around. Don't be afraid to ask questions on here, there is a wealth of knowledge to be had here and most are more than happy to share it and help when they can.
Happy hunting,
Rick.

Round bilge is much prettier! The only downside to the design as a cruiser for me is the exposed cockpit. I prefer to sit in a cockpit with a good backrest. Seat has to be long enough to stretch out and sleep on as well. Vanguard would be the perfect racer/cruiser but not for my sort of sailing. I thought about it long and hard about 5 years ago when she was for sale previously.

Ramona said..
Round bilge is much prettier! The only downside to the design as a cruiser for me is the exposed cockpit. I prefer to sit in a cockpit with a good backrest. Seat has to be long enough to stretch out and sleep on as well. Vanguard would be the perfect racer/cruiser but not for my sort of sailing. I thought about it long and hard about 5 years ago when she was for sale previously.

I am a fan of the way Vanguard is built (3 layer triple diagonal west system) super strong and light, had a 18' canoe, and sailed a few dinghy's built that way, but I can't see myself living and sailing this boat up and down the east coast with the layout of the cockpit, but it would be a good boat for racing for sure, but not for my sort of sailing.