Last year Caravan Times visited International Caravan & Motorhome and was dazzled by the array of gleaming objects on display. With two brand new caravan designs on offer in the Bailey Pegasus and the Stealth from Dunster House, the hardware fans amongst us were spoilt for choice. However if poring over caravans exclusively is a little too much, there’s a show in February that promises to cater for every whim of the outdoor enthusiast.
Boat & Caravan 2010 is held at the same venue (Birmingham’s NEC) from the 23-28 February but caters for a wide variety of touring lifestyles. Caravan fans who also enjoy camping and boating will find plenty on offer here, while those who are newcomes can benefit from lots of beginners events. With leading clubs and organisations in attendance to help answer questions and give advice, Boat & Caravan is a great place to get started. We contacted the organisers to find out what caravan fans can look forward to this year. In Part Two next week we’ll look at some of the other activities on offer…
Touring Caravans
In 2009 the caravan community witnessed a mini-revolution in the Pegasus from Bailey Of Bristol which premiered at International Caravan & Motorhome. This year Boat & Caravan can boast their own first when the new Olympus is revealed for the first time. Like the Pegasus this uses Bailey’s new Alu-Tech body shell construction technique, but the manufacturer explained to us “it will be equivalent to the Pageant range in our classic construction portfolio.” Considering how the Pegasus is now Bailey’s best-seller, expect this new caravan to be the star of the show.
2009 also saw the launch of the most radical design in caravans with the Stealth from Dunster House. At Boat & Caravan the team are introducing a brand new glossy silver/grey nosecone alongside the existing black. Take a look over at Stand 5205A.
The best of the rest sees iconic American brand Airstream continue their European range with a new improved version of the Bambi (pictured) to be found on Stand 4096. Continuing at the luxury end, Coachman have invested heavily in design with VIP, Pastiche and Laser ranges given a full makeover. Take a look at the brand new single axle Amara 560/4 on Stand 5190. In addition, Lunar and Elddis both have new models for 2010. The former will be showing their range at stand 5170, while the latter are presenting three new models on Stands 5275/5290.
Awnings and Accessories
Leading manufacturers Isabella will be showcasing their brand new annex called “The Future”. This exciting new product is cleverly designed – easy to assemble with only one lightweight pole. Also in awnings Europe’s largest producer Dorema will be launching a new collection of budget and porch awnings under the new STAR CAMP label. Discounts of up to 40% can be found at Stand 5250.
In accessories technology giants ALKO-KOBER will demonstrate the new Mammut caravan mover, designed to manouevre the vehicle over kerbs and rough terrain. Watch the eye-catching live demos at Stand 5180. Other innovations include Propex Heating and Leisure’s new water heater designed especially for caravans, which you can find at Stand 3281. Finally you can see the latest in satellite television systems for caravans with Maxview showcasing five new systems, while Oyster Sat Tech will be launching a keenly priced Caro range.
Show details
Boat and Caravan is taking place between 23-28 February 2010 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information you can visit the website, boatandcaravan.co.uk.
Adult tickets cost £12.50 in advance and £14 on the door, while children are £5 and £6 respectively. Senior citizens can attend for only £9.50 when booking in advance.
The best news is that a free show guide (£5 RRP) and free parking (worth £8) are both included in the ticket price. The Show is open daily from 10am – 6pm.
Remember to look out for Part Two of our Boat and Caravan guide next week, where we’ll be looking at some of the action-packed events on offer at Boat & Caravan.
