Does this look like a 4 berth??

[rosie36]

Hello, can anyone help me on this Safari? Does it look like a 4 berth? Rough age? Opinions in general?!

Attachments:

[Brian M]

I think it is a 14-2 from 1979 onwards, but think an owner wanting to sell it on ebay needs to make a bit more effort to gives some details.

I messaged the vendor this morning with details of this forum, as he makes reference to us, but without providing any details.

Write and ask him to provide the details off the sticker by the door, should provide the model and the first two digits of the serial number give the year.

[rosie36]

thanks Brian. I agree. Am very disapointed as thought for a moment I had found an elusive 4 berth...

[Mick]

It does seem the vast majority sold were 2 Berth. Maybe due to the cost new compared to Sprite and similar Family aimed vans. Families went for the cheaper ones, retired and Couples without children paid for the luxury of a 2 berth Safari. Keep looking one will turn up!

[Brian M]

Interesting comment Mick - there are only 24 four berth's on the serial number list - out of 95, and none after 1980.

There are now several new members looking for four berth Safaris, and some have been looking for a long time.

[rodneynorth1]

The 4 berth is a central kitchen layout.
If it was a 4 berth it would have vent for the fridge between side window and the door.

Sorry, better luck next time.

Rod North
13/4 owner

[rosie36]

OK, well that's depressing. I need a caravn quick sharp as without one there will be no holidays for the kiddlewinks next year If I see a 4 berth for sale I will buy it no matter what but... in the meantime what would you recommend I look for that's more easily available? 4 berth, classic, retro styling. I do like the Sprite major but again barely any available. Safari is my number 1 but until one comes along I need something to fill in the gap, I can always sell it one once the dream comes along! Any suggestions?!

[Brian M]

Sorry Rosie - I am not aware of any classic caravans other than Safaris .

You will only be disappointed if you buy anything other than a Safari!!!!

[Mick]

Best place to look is Ebay I find, plenty of interesting old Caravans on my watch list. There is a Sprite Major on now which depending where you are could be ok. 5 berth but compared to a Safari it will be a lot less of a Caravan. Only £5 at the moment but in Redruth!

[rosie36]

ha ha Brian, but they are as rare as hens teeth so whilst I am waiting...! The Sprite Major I've seen Mick but it has a rusted A frame and is not toweable.

[margo]

Rosie,

I don’t possess to be a caravan expert but in light of the age of these things the level of structural integrity is the only initial consideration regardless of make so please be wary before you buy. Naturally the Safari’s tend to be high end but the Royale’s are quite good too and have a similar lantern style roof– sorry Brian!!! The roof is also one piece GRP so it must be less prone to leaks.
As far as alternatives go I was also contemplating a Thomson Gleneagle a while back which has a similar layout to the 17/4 but obviously it’s a heavy brute so a hefty tow vehicle will be required. The Thomson’s are more conventional 70’s looking and naturally less luxurious than the Safari’s but they are far higher spec than the Sprite’s so you might want to look at those. However, as retro caravans go, there are probably few as well known and iconic than the Sprite – especially the Major, albeit as back to basics as it gets.

I apologise in advance to all you Safari owners for mentioning “alternative” makes of classic caravans but as Rosie says, she needs something for holidaying next year.

[Mick]

I agree about the Thomsons, Im looking for a Glenelg (14ft 4 berth) as my Grandma had one and I used to go on holiday in it when I was young. Not as detailed as the Safari but eqally as recognisable. I am going to keep the Safari so I have a 2 berth for shows and a 4 berth to actually use for weekends away with the younger kids with my 1966 Landrover or another '60s Saloon if I find one I can afford!

Where in the country are you Rosie?

[rosie36]

Thanks Margo & Mick, I have been looking for Royale's already but nothing has turned up. I know that nothing will scratch the Safari itch better than a safari but am happy to buy an 'inbetweener' while I wait and you have given me some good ideas! I am in Surrey but have searches saved nationally for a safari! Will let you know how I get on!