Caravan Cruise Ireland Spring 2012

Road Safety Authority on the new Motorhome Test Regulations

www.caravancruise.ie

IRELAND’S NEW MOBILE LEISURE & HOLIDAY MAGAZINE Volume 3. Number 1. Spring 2012

INSIDE:

All Aboard the Volkswagen Amarok & Bailey Orion 440-4

Show Reviews: London • Belfast • Dublin • Wicklow Volkswagen offers factory restorations of Classic Campervans All the latest Ferry information for travelling abroad Introducing the Hyundai i800 Campervan Woodlands Caravan Park review

€4.00 inc.V.A.T.

STG £3.20

Plus: Mobile Diner • Worldwide Ways• Travel Abroad• Book Reviews• Diary Dates• Competition

We want to make you a

happy camper!

The Dolmen Camper Van Insurance Scheme is the perfect way to keep you and your vehicle safe on the highways and byways of Ireland and beyond. With competitive rates, a free guide to getting the most from your Camper Van and excellent benefits such as breakdown

assistance anywhere in Europe*, you would have to go a long way to get a better deal.

To find out more, ring us at

(01) 802 2330

or drop into our office in Butterly Business Park, Artane, Dublin 5.

Email: camper@dolmen-insurance.ie Web: www.dolmen-insurance.ie

*Your camper van mustapply. be at least 20 miles from your before breakdown applies. Terms andAXA conditions apply. *Terms and conditions Policies underwritten byhome AXA Insurance Limited. assistance Dolmen Insurance Ltd. and Insurance Ltd. are both Policies underwritten

by AXA Limited. Dolmen Insurance Brokers and AXA Insurance are both regulated by the Financial Regulator. regulated by the Central BankInsurance of Ireland.

Contents Spring 2012 4 Editorial Foreword by Cathal Doyle, Editor

P 10

6 News • Motorhomes come under Roadworthiness Test regime • Westport Festival of Music & Performing Arts • Load up for Donaghey’s Open Weekend • New Bailey Retreat caravan • Get revved up for Vantastival 2012 • Top EU award for Tralee park • New five berth Airstream • Progress at Leisure Fix Ireland • Waterways Ireland opens to campervans • LEZ across EU • Leisure Technical Solutions moves 10 Review 1 The Motorhome, Caravan & Camping Show, ExCel, London

P 42 Caravan Cruise Ireland, Fleet Publications, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372826/ 9372827 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: info@caravancruise.ie Managing Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie Editor: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie Contributors: Cathal Doyle, Marita McGeady, Martina Cribben, Howard Knott, John O'Connell, Richard Kienberger Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle, Howard Knott, John O'Connell, Richard Kienberger, David Klyne Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey Advertising: Gerry Lane, Orla Sweeney info@caravancruise.ie Design: Eamon Wynne Caravan Cruise Ireland is published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Caravan & Camping Park Donard, County Wicklow.

ICC/Fáilte Ireland Award 2009 Best Maintained Park Tel. 045 404727 Fax: 045 404727 e-mail: moatfarm@ireland.com • TRANQUIL RURAL SETTING • ONE MINUTE STROLL FROM VILLAGE • IDEAL FOR RELAXING OR BASE FOR TOURING • WELCOMING AND UNSPOILED BY INTRUSIVE COMMERCIALISATION • EASY REACH OF DUBLIN & ROSSLARE Little Gem for the discerning Caravaner & Camper

29 Interview With Harald Schomburg, VW Commercials 31 Tow Car Review Volkswagen Amarok hitches up with Bailey Orion Motorhoming 2 Explaining the Roadworthiness Testing of motor caravans 35 Travel Abroad Sea crossings from Ireland in detail 40 Park Review Woodlands Caravan & Camping Park, Tralee 42 Motorhoming 3 Launch Pad - Hyundai i800 Campervan

14 Caravanning Bailey Orion joins Caravan Cruise Ireland family

44 Product Whale making waves in innovation

16 Event Guide Diary Date 2012

46 Waterways Latest developments at Waterways Ireland

17 Pin Pictures Postcards from around the world

48 Review 3 Holiday World Show, King’s Hall, Belfast

18 Review 2 Charles Camping Blessington Open Weekend

50 Review 4 Holiday World Show, RDS, Dublin 53 Book Reviews Sprite Caravans and Motor Caravan Manual

20 Worldwide Ways Across the world in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

54 Competition Win copies of The Little Book of Caravans (reviewed)

23 Mobile Diner Smart Cooking on a budget 27 Motorhoming 1 Factory built restorations from Volkswagen

Wish to send Caravan Cruise Ireland to your friends at home or overseas?

Let us do it for you! Just fill in the form!

Name: Address:

MOAT FARM

www.caravancruise.ie

Email:

Post Code: Tel: Fax: 2 ways to pay:Cheque made payable to Caravan Cruise Ireland Please charge my debit/credit card to the amount of € …………

• Laser • Mastercard • Visa • Electron • Maestro – please tick Card No: ………………………………………… Expiry Date: …………… CVV No: …………

Signature: ………………………………………………. Date: ……………

Rates: Ireland €6 (includes post/packaging) UK/EU €8 (includes post/packaging) US/Asia €12 (includes post/packaging) Send completed form to Caravan Cruise Ireland, c/o Fleet Publications, D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Fax: +353 94 9373571 CCI04.12 Disclaimer: Caravan Cruise Ireland management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Caravan Cruise Ireland management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editorial team reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

3

Fáilte!

A

good move to improve road safety standards, or just an additional burden on hard pressed motorhome owners? The introduction of new regulations regarding roadworthiness testing of Motor Caravans, which came into effect on 1 March, seems to have had an overall positive reaction from owners. Certainly there seems to be a wide acceptance that ensuring motorhomes are maintained in roadworthy condition is in everyone’s interest. While inevitably there will be teething problems and a degree of confusion as the new testing system beds itself in, the introduction of the biennial test should be regarded as a positive step for the sector.

the importance of the market segment within Irish tourism with a contribution of €120m to the economy, it notes the decline of almost 30% in the number of registered parks in the past twelve years.

While there is a well developed structure and effective product with committed and dedicated operators, the report identifies areas where the Irish market

Unsure of what to do, or whether the test requriements apply to you? Existing motorhome owners should already have received notification of the new testing regulations, but for further information turn to page 32 where the Road Safety Authority outlines details of the new test.

With the holiday season already in flow, what will 2012 bring, and will it be a good one for the camping sector? A Strategic Review of the Caravan and Camping product that has now been published on Failte Ireland’s website makes for interesting reading. Recognising

4 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

faces challenges such as pricing during the off-peak season, and potential to further develop products to specifically cater for motorhome tourism. The report identifies a series of fifteen recommendatons and twenty five associated key tasks with a target of achieving an integrated response with the commitment and support of all stakeholders. A Sector Implementation Group has been established and charged with progressing these recommendations from 2012 onwards.

In this issue we have our usual mix of all the latest news, reviews and information, with features ranging from an extensive review of sailing options to the UK and Europe to a feature on Volkswagen’s new factory that restores class Type 2s to Ex-Works condition. We have all the latest from the specialist shows here and in the UK, site visit experiences, product reviews, cookery tips, and book reviews, Everything you need to put you in that holiday spirit!

Cathal Doyle Editor Caravan Cruise Ireland

News 1 ‘Motor Caravans’ come under Commercial Vehicle Test Regime

A

s and from 1 March 2012 motorhomes / campervans come under the European Community’s (Vehicle Testing) (Amendment) Regulations (2011) which extends the categories of vehicles already tested at Commercial Vehicle Test (CVT) Centres.

Likewise waste water and sewage treatment systems and gas instillations will not need to be checked but brake performance testing will be carried out.

In due course, all vehicles tested at CVT Test Centres will have their test due dates computerised from their anniversary of first registration.

Similar to the test frequency for cars at the National Car Test (NCT), ‘Motor Caravans’ must be tested every four years, on the first registration and from then on every two years until the vehicle is ten years old, after which annual testing applies.

‘Motor Caravans’ registered prior to 1 January 1980 are exempt from testing, again identical to the NCT programme.

A new fee structure applies to these mobile leisure vehicles depending on the number of axles fitted. Two axle motorhomes / campervans will be charged €70.86 plus VAT, while units with three or more axles will incur a fee of €88.58 (plus VAT). Vehicles under 3.5tonnes GVW will be tested in a LGV (Light Goods Vehicle) test lane, while those exceeding 3500kg will have to use the HGV Test lane.

While Speed Limiters, Techographs and reflective markings are exempt from the

For vehicles that have already passed a road worthiness test before this change (as recommended by the RSA-Road Safety Authority), their subsequent test due dates will be computed from that date that the last test was carried out on the vehicle.

See pages 32 and 33 for more information on the new test regulations from the Road Safety Authority.

test, the standard of glazing materials used (particularly in the case of van conversions) will be inspected and typeapproved. Irrespective of their GVW, ‘Motor Caravans’ will not have to undergo plating at an NSAI (National Standard Authority of Ireland) plating centre.

Roll and Rock at Westport House new music festival to be held at Westport House this summer is set to be one of the key attractions as Westport House Caravan & Camping Park gears up for another busy season in 2012.

A

(with parents) and the Bouncy Castle, as well as the Pirates Plunge (log flume), the Pirate Ship Swing Ride, the Cannon Ball Run (slippery dip slide), Pik-a-Point and Paint. Campsite visitors receive a 20% discount on all on-site tickets.

The Westport Festival of Music & Performing Arts takes place on June 23rd and 24th and has attracted a strong line-up of national and international acts. Visitors staying at Westport House Caravan & Camping Park can avail of special all-in Camping & Festival tickets - €150 per person in a tent, or €160 per person in a campervan. Each adult may also bring up to two children under 12 at no charge. Junior camping tickets for 13-16 year olds are €75 camping and €80 campervan. Prices include access to all the rides in the Pirate Adventure Park, with the grounds open only to festival goers that weekend. It promises to be the perfect festival for camping and music enthusiasts.

Also on the grounds is an Adventure Activity Centre which offers a wide range of activities including zorbing, archery, orienteering, stand-up paddle-boarding, and kayaking. New this year is a 270m zip wire, and laser combat games and laser clay pigeon shooting.

But that’s only one part of what the acclaimed family-run, family-friendly park set in the grounds of Westport House near Westport Quay has to offer, with a full range of activities for all ages lined up for 2012. Adults can explore beautiful scenic walks and trace history at an 18th Century stately home with its original architecture, antiques and art.

Children’s activities include the Pirate Adventure Park, the Westport House Express Train, the Swan Pedalo boats

6 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

The Family Camper Special – three nights of camping plus an annual Pirate Pass to the House and Adventure Park – starts at €230 for a family of four and provides great value.

Check out www.westporthouse.ie for full details.

News 2 Donaghey’s Annual Open Weekend

L

et Letterkenny be your ‘Final Destination’ on your sat nav, as Ireland’s leading motorhome retailer, Donaghey Motorhomes of Letterkenny, holds its annual Open Weekend from April 20 – 22. Welcoming motorhome owners (and potential owners) from all over Ireland and beyond, Donaghey’s vast compound, packed with new and used vehicles becomes the motorhome capital of Ireland for its annual sale weekend. Last year over 500 ‘Campers’ were parked on site over the

three days, and all enjoyed a fantastic break packed with entertainment for all ages.

There will be lots to keep young and old busy throughout the weekend, with a number of activities for children to enjoy, while adults have entertainment in the afternoons and evenings.

Another aspect of this event is that Donaghey’s full range of products and services will be available for viewing, while various companies associated with the trade will be exhibiting as well. Caravan Cruise Ireland will have a stand there too! More details on www. irishmotorhomes.com.

New Bailey Retreat - a new style of caravan

H

ot on the heels of introducing its first motorhome range, Bailey, the leading caravan manufacturer, is continuing to expand its markets with the introduction of a new type of leisure vehicle.

Aimed at caravanners who don’t necessarily want to move from place to place on a regular basis, the Bailey Retreat Leisure Home is a larger sized caravan designed to remain on one site throughout the year. Bailey says that Retreat Leisure Homes have been developed specifically for this type of holiday with emphasis given to the features required for extended use in

Because the Retreat is not designed to be towed by the owner, the weight of the vehicle is no longer a key consideration, allowing the construction of a larger caravan. It has an internal length of 7.29m (23’11”) and an internal width of 2.32m (7’8”), with over 25% of more interior floor space than a standard twin axle tourer.

a single location. At the same time the Retreat gives the flexibility of a touring caravan, allowing owners to re-locate to an alternative location should they so desire.

Models are constructed using the same Alu-Tech bodyshell featured in other Bailey ranges, which is insulated to Grade III classification standard, allowing all year round usage.

Vantastival 2012 promises to be the best yet

V

antastival, the music festival with a special focus on the campervan community, returns for a third year from 4th to 6th May 2012.

This year the rapidly growing event will take place at Bellurgan Park near Dundalk in County Louth. As well as an exciting line-up of artists, there will be a range of activities focusing on the campervan lifestyle, bringing an extra dimension to the only festival of its kind in Ireland.

Other attractions include gourmet food stalls, festival traders, scheduled kids’ activities, documentary cinema, art, craft and theatre, ensuring that Vantastival has something for everyone, with or

Provided by Silk Road Tents, you can choose from a range of yurts, tipis and bell tents, which can sleep from 2 to 12 people.

Among the artists and bands performing at Vantastival 2012 are God is an Astronaut, Cathy Davey, Frankie Gavin & Dedannan, Ham Sandwich, The Original Rudeboys, La Galaxie, Eoin Dillon, Jinx Lennon and I Draw Slow. without a campervan!

Full details are available on www. vantastival.com.

New for 2012, Vantastival is offering a boutique camping option for those of wanting that little bit of extra comfort.

CHECK THE LATEST FROM THE MOBILE LEISURE AND HOLIDAY SECTOR ON WWW.CARAVANCRUISE.IE www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

7

News 3 Tralee Caravan Park scoops Top European Award Tralee caravan and camping park has been selected as the only park in Ireland to win a prestigious Alan Rogers Award 2011.

A

achieve this award Mike McDonnell said they were delighted to win as it reflects the effort they put into making their park one of the top in Europe and Ireland.

Woodlands Caravan & Camping Park on the Dan Spring Road won the runners up “Welcome Award” from Alan Rogers Camping Guides. Having reviewed over 2500 parks across Europe, the judges decided that the warm welcome offered to guests staying at Woodlands was genuinely outstanding and deserved recognition.

“Winning this Award really puts us up there with the best parks in Europe and is a great boost to our business which has seen a revival in families coming back to camping in the last few years.”

Owners Mike & Martina McDonnell and their daughter Jane (pictured) were presented with the Award at a ceremony in Utrecht, Holland.

The Park was established in 1998 and since opening has won 16 national and international awards. This is the 4th time they have won an Alan Rogers Award.

Thanking their guests who helped them

Woodlands Caravan & Camping Park Dan Spring Rd, Tralee, Co. Kerry Tel: 066 7121235 www.kingdomcamping.com woodlandstralee@gmail.com Turn to pages 40-41 for a visitor’s review of Woodland Caravan & Camping Park.

New family sized Airstream the biggest yet.

A

storage capacity has been increased to cope with extra clothing. The 685’s rear area becomes a true bedroom suite when the bathroom door is opened 90 degrees, separating the rear from the front of the trailer which can be configured either as a double bed area (2212mm x 1392mm) or two singles (1781mm and 1693mm x 710mm).

t the NCC Motorhome, Caravan & Camping Show at London’s ExCel in February, Airstream unveiled a new, family-orientated, five berth trailer, its biggest to date.

The International 685 boasts three fixed bunks at the rear, two berths up front and is based on the luxurious 2.5m-wide Series 2 684 which launched in May 2011. Prices for the International 685 start from £59,980.

The new layout features three Italian-made aluminium alloy framed beds, a top bunk (1913mm x 765mm), middle bunk (1822mm x 718mm) and lower bunk (1978mm x 753mm), complete with timber retainers and 100mm thick mattresses. An individual

reading light and 12v supply are available to each bunk, and ample storage room and full exterior access can be found under the rear centre bunk.

Five bedroom drawers in the rear bedroom mean each family member can enjoy their own storage place while the wardrobe

Like the award-winning Series 2 684, the 685 also comes with extended shower, kitchen and seating areas. Corian worktops are offered as standard in the bathroom and as an optional upgrade in the kitchen and buyers can also opt for a rotating worktop extension and residential-style undermounted Franke sink with Corian drop-in-lid in the kitchen.

Leisure Fix Ireland continues to grow

H

stated, “With a lot of Motorhomes, parts availability is extremely slow and very expensive. Over the years the craft of repairing damaged doors, bumpers, mouldings etc. has disappeared, as everyone buys new, often resulting in long delays before the motorhome is roadworthy again. We look at things differently. To save time and to get people back on the road quickly, we excel in the craft of repairs - with a quality job our main focus and a 3-year guarantee on all AXA Claims. We also arrange delivery and collection anywhere in Ireland.”

aving gained the contract to handle all AXA motorhome claims last year, Leisure Fix Ireland, the County Monaghan specialist for motorhome repairs, reports that it has been a very successful twelve months for the company that handles repairs on all types of vehicles ranging from caravans and motorhomes to boats and horse trucks.

Based outside Castleblayney, Leisure Fix has the facilities to deal with all aspects of repairs, from water damage, interior repair and design, exterior/roof damage and fibre glass repairs to electrical and plumbing solutions and spray painting

and graphic design.

Service Manager Richard Brennan

8 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Leisure Fix can be contacted on 042 9740618 or mobile 086 8139638.

News 4 Waterways Ireland extend services to Campervan community • Stop-off Services offered by Waterways Ireland

M

otor home/Campervan and Caravan owners and users will be pleased to know that Waterways Ireland has opened up its services to the mobile leisure community through a Smart Card System. Waterways Ireland SMART Cards are used to operate the locks, to access the service blocks and to use the pump-outs along the Waterway. Additionally they allow access to services including toilets, showers, washing machines/ tumble-dryers, shore power and chemical toilets, and it is these facilities that are now available to motohome and caravan users.

of Waterways Ireland’s route network and location offices.

There is a card reader in each service block to enable users to check the number of units remaining on their Smart Card. A 10 unit card costs €6.35/£4.00, or for €12.70/£8.00 you can buy a 20 unit card. Showers/ toilets require 2 units while use of the laundry facilities take 5 units each.

SMART cards can be purchased from Waterway Patrollers on the Shannon-Erne Waterway, online, or via a large number

While Waterways Ireland has centred on the river, lake and canal routes in the Republic of Ireland, facilities in Northern Ireland are run in association with Local Authorities on the Lower Bann system.

Increase in Low Emission Zones across Europe

W

ith an increasing number of cities around the EU introducing Low Emission Zones (LEZ) in order to reduce congestion and exhaust emissions, motorhome owners need to take note, particularly owners of older vehicles. Milan in Italy and a number of large German towns were added to the LEZ list this year, while there have been regulation changes to the London LEZ. Motorhomes from 2.8 to 3.5 tonnes GVW and registered as new before 1 January 2002 now come under the renewed London LEZ programme.

In order for these vehicles to meet the Euro 3 engine emission standard, a retrofit exhaust system must be fitted in

emission test.

order to avoid a fine every time the LEZ is breached. Once the exhaust filter is fitted and approved by VOSA (the vehicle regulatory body in the UK), a certificate will be issued. A regular maintenance schedule is then necessary as is an annual

Motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes GVW are required to meet even more stringent measures, with Euro 4 emissions the minimum level accepted. Full details are available on the Transport for London (TFL) website regarding compliance, approved exhaust filter fitters, charges etc – see www.tfl.gov.uk. Those travelling to the London Olympics will need to know that their LEZ covers the area inside the M25. Vehicles entering the zone found to be noncompliant could be fined up to £500 if the minimum daily charge of £100 is not paid, regardless of which country the vehicle is registered.

New Premises for Leisure Technical Solutions

L

eisure Technical Solutions, the County Down based leading provider and installer of equipment for the mobile leisure industry has moved to new premises.

Since 1 March, the company is located at 5 Moss Lane, Dromore, Co. Down, BT25 1AX. Speaking about the move, company owner Simon Burke said; “The move to these bigger premises means that we will be able to carry more stock than before, thereby giving customers an even

greater choice than before. As Ireland’s most experienced agents for technical equipment for leisure vehicles, we will continue to supply and fit the leading systems on the market that have quality and performance unmatched by other manufacturers.”

Leisure Technical Solutions is agent for a broad range of companies providing

equipment to the motorhome manufacturers including Dometic, Truma, Smev, Waeco, Spinflo, Thetford, Camos, Sterling power, Elecsol, Oyster satellite equipment, and many more. It is also an authorized agent in Ireland for After-market systems including Oyster satellite equipment, Van Bitz’s security products, Waeco reversing cameras, power invertors and cruise control, Dometic fridges, generators, toilets and kitchen equipment, Kyrocera solar panels, Efoy fuel cells, Gaslow products and Stako gas tanks. www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

9

Review 1

New Motorhome & Caravan Show in London a success xCel in London’s Docklands was the venue for the 2012 Motorhome, Caravan & Camping Show. Not the easiest place to get to, nonetheless most of the major UK manufacturers motorhome and caravan manufacturers were in attendance, showcasing their 2012 wares. Although there weren’t as many product launches

E

as at the October Caravan & Motorhome Show in the NEC Birmingham, there was still plenty to whet the appetites of visitors to the show.

ABI

Adria The new Astella caravan range took pride of place on the Adria stand. This is the 613KB model.

Airstream Airstream premiered its new 685 model - its biggest to date.

Alde The central heating specialists, Alde demonstrated live working displays of its systems for motorhomes and caravans.

AL-KO The highly regarded chassis and running gear manufacturer had a selection of its caravan and motorhome products on show, as well as a range of premium accessories.

Automotive Leisure Official Hymer dealer Automotive Leisure had the traditional looking but highly functional Eriba caravans on display.

Auto-Trail As well as the full range of Auto-Trail models, two new low-line Tribute models were on show.

Bailey Bailey unveiled its new Retreat range of caravans designed for seasonal pitch use.

Bentley Motorhomes The expanding Bentley family includes this Donnington model from the Signature range.

ABI’s 2012 offerings include 36 models across 11 ranges.

Caravan Cruise Ireland's Jarlath Sweeney and Cathal Doyle were there to capture a flavour of what’s new for 2012.

10 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Review 1

Bessacarr The E500 range from Bessacarr has been updated with four new models on AL-KO chassis and Alde heating as standard.

Bilbo’s Motorhomes Specialising in VW T5 conversions, this is Bilbo’s Motorhome’s Lezan model.

Burstner There were two new finishes available on Burstner’s Ixeo range.

Calder Leisure For space it’s hard to beat a fifth wheel type caravan. Calder Leisure had a selection of KountryLite and Elkridge models. Surprisingly affordable too!

Coachman Coachman showed new 565/4 models in VIP and Pastiche specs with fixed single beds.

Concorde If it is luxury you’re after, this Concorde Carver 821 L should fit the bill.

Devon Conversions Devon Conversions launched this new price leading Sunrize model based on the Renault Trafic.

Dometic Dometic is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of after OEM and aftermarket equipment for the mobile leisure market.

Elddis Elddis launched the new Aspire 265 motorhome feature a fixed rear bed and spacious bathroom.

Fiat Professional Fiat showed the latest model year Ducato Euro 5 with extra long wheelbase chassis length.

Hillside Leisure Among Hillside Leisure’s conversions is this striking Birchover model.

Hobby Examples of German brand Hobby on show included this compact 50GS Van.

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

11

Review 1

Lowdhams Major motorhome retailer Lowdhams had a selection of the latest Dethleffs on display.

Lunar The Lunar stand, with a full range of the lightweight specialist caravans on show.

Murvi Motorcaravans One of our favourite van conversions at the show was this new Murvi Pimento based on the MWB Fiat Ducato.

Nisemann + Bischoff Luxury motorhoming on display courtesy of Niesmann + Bischoff’s Flair model.

Pilote This G743 LGJE model from Pilote offers luxurious yet affordable motorhoming.

Prestige Park & Leisure Homes Prestige exhibited a new 40x20 Sonata, 40x20 Reprise, and the new Buckland Lodge 40x20.

Rapido An extensive display on the Rapido stand included this 966 M A-Class.

Romahome The Citroen van conversions specialists showed this new low roof version of the R20.

Smart-Tow.com If you need to take a car on holiday with your motorhome, Smart-Tow.com may have your towing solutions.

Sprite Sprite is expanding with seven models in the main family, as well as the lighter and cheaper Sprite Lite range.

Subaru The Japanese 4WD specialist had its new XV model on show.

Sussex Caravan Centre This leading caravan retailer had an innovative Back to the Future look on their stand.

12 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Review 1

Ssangyong Ssangyong has a strong pedigree when it comes to practical tow-cars, something the new Korando looks set to maintain.

Sterling Caravans Sterling had three new models from the Sterling Eccles Sport range on display.

Swift Caravans Swift Caravans introduced three new layouts for the Challenger Sport range.

Swift Holiday Homes Swift Holiday Homes showed a new three model Auvergne range.

Swift Motorhomes Swift Motorhomes featured four new Bolero models with AL-KO chassis and Alde heating as standard.

Thetford Thetford is a highly respected manufacturer of sanitation, refrigeration and kitchen appliance products for the mobile lesure industry.

Vanmaster Vanmaster specialises in producing highend personalised caravans.

Venus Caravans Venus is a brand new range of lightweight affordable caravans from the makers of the Lunar brand.

Volvo Volvo is gearing up for the Volvo Ocean Race with a full range of models on exhibit.

Wellhouse Leisure Wellhouse showed elevating roof and hitip versions of its Hyundai i800 camper.

Westfalia Westfalia is a leading manufacturer of towbars, wiring kits, and load carrying systems.

Wheelhome Specialists in elevating roof compact campers, Wheelhome launched its new Skarpa model based on the Fiat Doblo.

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

13

Caravanning

Bailey Orion 440-4 :- First Impression Technical Data: Make/Model: Internal length: Shipping length: Overall width: Overall height: Internal headroom: Tyres/Wheels: MTPLM?: MRO?: Bed Sizes:

D

ublin Port, Ireland’s main sea port is seen by many as the recovery point of the Irish economy as Irish exports continue to grow. It’s a hive of activity, with trucks constantly coming and going from the various terminals. In addition there are other vehicles with a difference ready and waiting to be collected and delivered. One such item on the week before St. Patrick’s Day was Caravan Cruise Ireland’s new Bailey Orion caravan, which had just come off the Seatruck Ferry from Holyhead. Arriving to collect it, we had the ideal vehicle to tow it home on its inaugural journey - a Volkswagen Amarok, the International Pick-up Award winning leisure and utility truck. There was no need to use the 4 motion four-wheel-drive system available such was the ease of towing this single axle 4 berth unit. (See our tow car review on page 31) Orion is Bailey’s new Compact Caravan range that’s designed to be easy to drive, easy to park and easy to store. What’s important too, from an investment point-of-view, is that it is built (in Bristol) using the same high performance Ali-Tech construction system featured in the other Bailey ranges,

and also includes a GRP outer skin for extra durability. Bailey’s market leading ten year body shell integrity guarantee is welcome too when it comes to peace of mind.

The Bailey Orion 440-4 to give the caravan its full title, has a compact exterior that cleverly disguises a spacious interior. Smart use of space provides various layouts in this fourstrong model range that accommodates from two to five people. New owners will also be pleased to see that the Orion is well kitted out, with items such as fully equipped kitchen and washroom. There is also a 3-burner gas hob, microwave, oven and a radio/CD/mp3 player with stereo speakers which will be appreciated by all occupants.

Alko’s secure wheel-lock along with a 12volt charger was the only optional extra that we specified, the former recommended by the Bailey personnel that we dealt with.

Over the next number of months we will be touring around the Emerald Isle with the new Bailey Orion 440-4, visiting various parks and festival venues. Reports and pictures from these experiences on board the Orion will be relayed in Caravan Cruise Ireland magazine and www.caravancruise. ie.

14 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Bailey Orion 440-4 (4 berth) 5.225m 6.388m 2.19m 2.63m 1.96m 195/70 R14 L196N 1287kg 1130kg Front Double – 5’0” x 6’x6” N/S Single – 5’10” x 2’x3” O/S Single – 5’10 x 2’x3”

Specification Features: Construction:

5 part body shell – AlvTech fully laminated Alko galvanised steel chassis, braking system and running gear 14” Alloy Wheels Al-Ko AKs 3004 stabiliser Polyplastic double glazed windows Retractable Flyscreens and blinds Two-part H__tal exterior door Dedicated gas bottle, battery and toilet Cassette compartments with exterior access doors Status 530 directional TV aerial

Interior: • Thetford 101 litre refrigerator with freezer • Duplex combination oven and grill • 3 gas burner hob • Kitchen sink with removable drainer/mixer tap • Stainless steel 800 watt microwave oven • Truma Ultrastore water heater (gas/electric) • Whale floor mounted heater system • Thetford C-250 cassette toilet • Belfast’ style sink and mixer tap • Inboard shower unit and mixer tap • Italian design caravan furniture in Bailey ‘walnut’ • Unity soft furnishings plus co-ordinated curtains • Radio/CD/MP3 player with iPod connection

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

FAMILY CAMPER’S SPECIAL: 3 night’s camping + Annual Family Pirate Pass Starting at €230!

NEW for 2012 Westport Festival of Music & Performing Arts 23rd & 24th June All-in Festival & Camping Tickets €150 pp (tent); €160 pp (campervan) Each adult can bring 2 children (12 years & under) free of charge

For further information contact: e: info@westporthouse.ie t: 098 27766. www.westporthouse.ie

Duncannon Holiday Park is a family-run seaside establishment on the beautiful coast of Wexford. Situated in the Sunny South East region in the backdrop of Hook Head, the park is just minutes from the village and its world-renowned beach and is well-equipped with well-maintained modern facilities and mobile homes. Mobile homes are available for rent for the coming season on a week-byweek basis.

We can cater for: • • • •

Touring caravans Camper vans Tents Long & short-term stays

Duncannon Holiday Park, Ballystraw, Duncannon, Newross, Co. Wexford.

Contact us for further details on 051 389193

www.duncannonholidaypark.com

Event Guide

Shows and Events during 2012 DATE

SHOW

LOCATION

20 - 22 April

Donaghey Motorhomes Open Weekend Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

20-22 April

Wales Caravan and Motorhome Show

Chepstow Racecourse, UK

27 - 29 April

The National Motorhome Show

East of England Showground, Peterborough, UK

www.outandaboutlive.co.uk/ Shows/The-National-MotorhomeShow/_sh3

4-6 May

Vantastival

Bellurgan Park, Co. Louth

www.vantastival.com

18 - 20 May

The Southern Caravan Show

Newbury Showground, Berkshire, UK

www.outandaboutlive. co.uk/Shows/The-SouthernMotorcaravan-Show/_sh4

22-24 June

The Motorhome Show

Stratford Racecourse, Warwick, UK

www.stoneleisure.com

30 June - 1 July

UK Motorhome Summer Fair

Shropshire & West Midlands Showground SY1 2PF, UK

www.uksummerfair.co.uk

13 - 15 July

Northern Motorcaravan Show

Cheshire Showground, UK

www.outandaboutlive.co.uk/ Shows/Northern-MotorcaravanShow/_sh1

11 - 19 August

Eireball Run

Around Ireland

www.eireball.com

25 August 2 September

Caravan Salon

Dusseldorf, Germany

www.caravan-salon.com

1 - 2 September

The Caravan Extravaganza Weekend

The Lawns Harland Way Cottingham East Yorkshire, UK

www.lawnsandbeaulieushows.com

1 - 2 September

UK Motorhome & Caravan Autumn Fair

Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire NG24 2NY, UK

www.ukautumnfair.co.uk

7 - 9 September

The Motorhome Show

Royal Bath & West Showground Shepton Mallet, UK

www.stoneleisure.com

The New Forest Showground, Hampshire, UK

www.appletree-exhibitions.co.uk/ index.html

Lincoln Show Ground Lincoln, UK

www.outandaboutlive.co.uk/ Shows/The-Motorhome-ShowSeason-Finale/_sh5

Three Counties Showground, Malvern

www.threecounties.co.uk/ caravanshow

Exeter Racecourse, UK

www.appletree-exhibitions.co.uk/ index.html

National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham

www.motorhomeandcaravanshow. co.uk/

21 - 23 September The New Forest Caravan And Motorhome Show

21 - 23 September The Motorhome Show, Season Finale

5 - 7 October

Three Counties Showground Malvern Worcestershire

6 - 7 October 16 - 21 October

The Motorhome & Caravan Show

Keel Sandybanks Caravan & Camping Park

DERRYLAHAN HOSTEL/CAMPSITE Derrylahan, Kilcar,Co. Donegal.

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo.

Ideal base for a relaxing break. Located on a 3 mile blue flag beach. Pubs, shops, restaurants all within walking distance.

Tel: 098 43211 Web: www.achillcamping.com Email: info@achillcamping.com Open 22 April to 13 Sept.

Tel: 074 97 38079 E-mail: derrylahan@eircom.net Web: http://homepage.eircom.net~derrylahan/ GPS: N 540 38’ 07” W 080 37’ 29”

Mountain Climbing, Hill Wakling, Beaches and much more for your enjoyment.

16 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

WEBSITE www.donagheymotorhomes.ie

THE APPLE FARM Moorstown, Cahir, Co. Tipperary.

Tel. 052 744 1459 e-mail: con@theapplefarm.com www.theapplefarm.com The most interesting campsite in Ireland, located on an orchard where all manner of fruit grow.

See more at www.theapplefarm.com Great value always.

Pin Pictures

Successful Ireland Angling Show

A

nglers from all over Ireland and the UK made up the 10,000 strong attendances at the annual Ireland Angling show held at the National Show Centre in Swords, County Dublin.

Visitors were treated to the special appearance of angling legend, author and fishing film maker John Wilson. His demonstrations on the main casting arena and his unique style and techniques of fishing were much appreciated.

Go Eco at El Cosmico

O

n Highway 67, just outside the main centre of Marfa, Texas, lies a unique lodging concept called El Cosmico. On an 18 acre plot, El Cosmico is part vintage trailer, safari tent and tepee hotel that fosters artistic and intellectual exchange.

On-site visitors can stay in 1950’s ‘trailers’ that have been beautifully restored and feature showers, refrigerators, floor heating, hot water and appointed with unique light fixtures and furnishings.

Bedding, towels and kitchen utensils are all provided. Nightly rates range from $110 to $150 per night. Film, music and cultural events are regularly held there.

More details on www.elcosmico.com.

Freeze your socks off in Syote!

Summerfield Holiday Park YOUGHAL, CO. CORK Only 40 mins from Cork, beside the Blue Flag Beach and Youghal Swimming Pool and Leisure Centre Amenities on site include: • CHILDRENS PLAYGROUND • FOOTBALL PITCH CH • TENNIS COURTS • BASKETBALL • LAUNDRY • SECURE PARK WITH CCTV • ELECTRONIC ENTRANCE BARRIER Limited number of mobile homes available from `12,500 to `25,000

Call now for an appointment to view: 087 7575815 or 024 93537

S

yote in Northern Finland is not far from the Arctic Circle. Here you will find one of the coldest Caravan parks in the world. When passing the SYOTE CARAVAN Park in March, temperatures had plummeted to minus 28 degrees centigrade.

Surprisingly at the snow centred facility there was some light to be seen in the caravans. Despite the extremes this venue is home to the cross-country skier, thanks to the vast undulating terrain in the area. For those less adventurous and fond of home comforts there are a number of hotel and restaurants in the region! Brrrr!!!

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

17

Review 2

Charles Camping Open Days B ased in Blessington, County Wicklow, Charles Camping is one of Ireland’s main retailers for everything camping. The family owned and run business stocks everything from new and second hand caravans to trailer tents, tents, and awnings, as well as an extensive range of accessories in the well stocked shop. Among the caravan brands that Charles Camping is an agent for, are Elddis, Swift, Caravelair and Sterckeman.

For a number of years now, Charles Camping has held an Open Weekend at the beginning of the year, where its full range of stock for the new season is on display. Caravan Cruise went along at the end of January to see what was on offer.

Johnny Bulger & Kevin Delahan of the Irish Camping & Caravan Club

18 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Review 2

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

19

Globetrotter

Globetrotters in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

"I

f we have to choose between homesickness and getting itchy feet, we will chose the latter and continue travelling the World.“ Wolfgang Zellinger may have mentioned this before in a previous travel feature, but it is a good place to start this article to describe what fuels Wolfgang and his wife Anna on their incredible curiosity to see the world.

somehow normal in the seventies for truck drivers or adventurists. Nowadays it’s more of a difficult task, but not for the Zellingers.

In the early eighties the couple managed to save enough money to convert a used Mercedes-Benz Transporter van into a mobile home and planned a two year trip

Wolfgang and his love, since their teenage years have been travellers all their lives.

After High School they departed their native Austrian town Gmunden for Berlin to live there for a couple of years before moving to Southern Germany. Both found good jobs and staying a bit apart from middle class conventions, could afford to take distinctive breaks from daily working life. Breaking out and diving into the thrilling experience of seeing other countries, continents and lifestyles was their goal. Wolfgang was working in the asphalt industry, which is a seasonal business with a summer high. So he could save his holidays and stay away from the job for two months or even more in the winter time. One year they travelled Africa, the other year Hawaii. From then on long distance travel was in the blood. Driving with a VW Bulli Campervan to India was 20 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

around the world. Alas, it ended during year two, because Wolfgang's company underwent a major restructuring and his bosses cabled him the alternatives: stay abroad or come back to the well paid job (and get an even better one).

The Zellingers came back, because they had another dream in mind. They were thinking about ending their working life at

Globetrotter

50 and then starting another trip around the world - even longer and maybe never ending! When they first spoke about that dream with some friends, few believed that it could be achieved, as it sounded like another crazy idea. But as the years passed their friends sensed that it was becoming a serious plan. Not so in his company, as colleagues could not believe their ears when Wolfgang, who always enjoyed the bright sides of life, asked to retire a couple of months short of his 50th birthday.

Their first trips were planned to get familiar with the Sprinter, so they made a big loop around the Mediterranean Sea, experienced Arabia and then followed the trails of their first big trip to India and Pakistan. They then shipped the

Mercedes-Benz to Australia and spent some years there before another vessel was booked to ship their 'mobile-home' to South America, where they had been for months on their first trip around the world. "We always wanted to avoid rush

And there was a big surprise at that birthday party for the globetrotters: Their new motorhome, which was scheduled to be delivered only a couple of weeks later, was parking in front of the house, an All-Wheel-Drive Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with an individually designed interior produced by Austrian specialist Action Mobil. For more than thirteen years the Sprinter has been the home of Anna and Wolfgang. During the summer months is when they spend some time in a small holiday apartment at Lake Attersee, close to their native community Gmunden. www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

21

Globetrotter

and instead travel extensively,“ claimed Wolfgang, who was first and foremost the driver, and secondly the cook. Which results in a easy life for the so called 'Palmedes' (as a palm tree covers the grill instead of the Mercedes-Benz threepointed-star). It is not often that the car has to make more than 300 kilometres a day. The grand total on the tachograph has now reached 350.000 kms, and while the Mercedes-Benz has lost some of its

silky gloss, in general the 'van works well. Only last year the Zellingers had an unplanned break in a backyard workshop in the most Northwestern corner of the USA, caused by a problem in the Sprinter’s injection system, which could only be repaired after a three week delay for parts.

meanwhile they have documented their first years in two travel books. Their website was parked by a service provider so there is no service at present – when Wolfgang and wife Anna come back home this summer, they plan to design a new one – but while travelling they have absolutely no time to attend to this chore – too much to do and see!.

Wolfgang and Anna keep their friends informed with reports from abroad,

22 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Text: Richard Kienberger & Rob Van Dieten Photos: Richard Kienberger

Mobile Diner

SMART Cooking ...

... on a budget

M

ake the very most of your well earned holiday, eat ‘at home’ and enjoy the views from the best table in the house! It’s a ‘win win’ situation every time. The tranquillity will reward you well and your budget will be in great shape to have a special night out from time to time. Great food and flavours need not be expensive. Wandering the highways and waterways all over the world can lead you to discover wonderful local fresh produce that adds to your holiday fun and stories.

A word on budgeting in times of recession.

The trick is to think ahead and vary the menu every day. Write down a list of ideas that you could use while on holiday, try some first at home and stick to your budget. Great meals can be planned around inexpensive staples like sausage and potato. Also use carrots, celery, lentils, salads, beans and small amounts of fresh fish and meat. Fresh breads and rolls are a must and needn’t cost the earth.

Enjoy cooking rice, pasta, noodles and couscous and learn to use herbs and spices liberally.

I love to find a rosemary bush or bay tree growing by the roadside for inspiration for a dish, and for free addition to a soup, stew or a fish roast! If you are by the sea gather some mussels, periwinkles or cockles, cook them and add them to chowder. Even a few will add an authentic taste and won’t take too long to prepare.

If there is someone who fishes then be ready with a recipe or two to use the fresh fish. There is nothing quite like the flavour of fish just out of the water. Should the opportunity present itself, jump at the chance of purchasing some from a friendly fisherman. I once was given a present of two whole crabs when I asked to buy just for a few mackerel.

make a spicy red Chorizo, the Germans love pale bratwurst, Bangers and mash are a favourite in England. The French merguez, originally a Moroccan recipe and made from lamb has become a French favourite. The world is full of sausage for one good reason. People love them and use them in all sorts of dishes. The Irish sausage varies from county to county so it is well worth sourcing them locally for new tastes, meats and textures. Who can resist fresh juicy Irish, pork, beef or duck sausage straight from the barbeque or grill. Sausages are really useful when on the move as they cook in a short time and can add lots of flavour and protein to meals in the great outdoors where hunger escalates in the fresh air. There are times when you want some simple comfort.

Another great staple for feeding a ravenous crew is the potato. Cheap, easy to prepare, and oh so very comforting.

Search for the locally grown varieties and enjoy them at their freshest. When on the move I buy washed vegetables where possible. Potatoes cut into quarters don’t take too long to cook. Always pack your own vegetable peeler for speed and comfort and perhaps a Smart Cooking book as well for ideas.

No matter where I am holidaying I head for the local butcher’s shop which generally reveals good local sausages and puddings. Sausages are loved the world over and vary from place to place and from butcher to butcher. The Spanish www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

23

Mobile Diner

Breakfast on a budget

M

ake your own fruit and seed packed muesli. Divide it into several zip lock bags so it will stay fresh for longer.

Oats have a low glycemic index, that means they break down slowly, releasing glucose gradually into the bloodstream.

In other words they keep your energy up for a long time before you need to eat again. A lower glycemic response usually equates to a lower insulin demand. With so many people worried about late onset diabetes or Type 2 diabetes this is an important reason.

The fibre, the seeds and the oats have a wonderful way of keeping one’s system regular, a vital consideration when sitting or driving for long periods. Seeds have essential fatty acids, omega 3, 6 and 9, as well as a variety of vital trace elements.

Walnuts are reckoned to lower cholesterol.

Dried fruits are a source of natural sugars so will give sweetness with trace elements and are digested slowly.

will get used to it. You will really feel its benefit and know you are having a very healthy start every day.

Children will love it with a spoon of honey drizzled over the top. Homemade muesli takes less space and packed in ziplock bags will remain fresh and crunchy.

Make and use this muesli for a few weeks before going on holiday so your system

Smart Muesli breakfast Ingredients: 1kg oatmeal, 300g sunflower seed 300g linseed, dark or golden 300g pumpkin seed 300g walnuts 300g raisins Mix the following in a large basin then store into zip lock or plastic containers.

Note: These amounts are a guide only. Use a little more or less to your taste.

To use.

Pour some into a cereal bowl. Pour on boiling water. Add fruit juice, milk or a cholesterol lowering product (with plant stenols). Leave to soak for 1 minute.

Now dice some fresh fruit to put on top (one of your 5 a day!). If you wish top with some thick yoghurt and/or a spoon of honey.

24 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Mobile Diner

Chowder

T

his chowder recipe can be adapted for your needs. For example: add more vegetables, carrots, peas, or extra potato. I have added cooked mussels and other shell fish gathered fresh from the shore. Add chopped lean rashers or lean bacon pieces. One can then reduce the fish content to save money. In a hurry use a small packet of diced frozen vegetables. I have used white wine to replace half the stock in this recipe and used the tasty vegetable base for poaching large chunks or darns of fish fillet and shelled prawns to serve at a dinner party. So much is possible with this tasty recipe. Give it a try. Some fish mongers and supermarkets sell fish for chowders which is free from skin and bone and can be a nice mixture if the fish is fresh and smoked.

Seafood Chowder Serves 4 Cooking time 35 minutes.

Ingredients: 400g fish fillet - smoked or fresh or a mixture for chowder 25g butter 1 tablespoon oil 1 onion 1 stick celery 1 medium potato 500ml water or vegetable *stock Salt and pepper Âź teasp nutmeg 1 bay leaf 75g sweet corn or 1 small tin (optional) 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped.

2 tablespoons cream – Optional Method: Wash, peel and dice the potato, onion and celery neatly. Heat the oil and butter in a large saucepan, add the onion, potato and celery, stir, then with lid on *sweat gently for 5 minutes. Lower the heat, do not brown.

Add water, bay leaf, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Bring to the boil then simmer gently with lid for 15 minutes until vegetables are just softening.

Meanwhile wash fish, remove skin and bones if necessary, cut into 2cm dice.

Add the fish, sweet corn and parsley

and simmer very gently for 10 to 15 minutes until the fish is cooked. Check the *consistency and seasoning and adjust if necessary. Remove the bay leaf.

Stir in the cream.

Garnish with parsley.

Serve with croutons, fresh wholemeal bread and butter or scones. *STOCK: is a well-flavoured liquid that is used to give good flavour to soups, sauces and stews. It is made by simmering bones, meat or fish, vegetables and herbs in water to draw out the flavours. Stock cubes are made from dried concentrated stock. They are best kept for emergencies as they are highly seasoned and can contain artificial additives. If using a stock anic one and use only cube use an organic half a cube at a time me as they can alt. contain a lot of salt.

cover (or the lid of a smaller saucepan) is put down onto the vegetables to trap the steam and intensify the flavours. *SIMMER: Water simmers when bubbles break gently on the surface at 950C. This extracts flavour and tenderises food.

Most food is simmered with the lid on the pot. * CONSISTENCY: This means the thinness or thickness of a soup, or sauce etc. If the chowder is too thin blend 1 heaped teaspoon cornflour with 1 tablespoon water and whisk it into the soup and simmer for 5 minutes. If it is too thick, add a little milk, cream or water.

*SWEAT: This is refers to the initial cooking of vegetables in but ter and/or oil, in a covered saucepan, over a low heat in order to extract the juices and flavour g. without colouring.

A greaseproof paper aper www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

25

Mobile Diner

Coddle

C

oddle is said to have been a favourite dish of Jonathan Swift, Dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral Dublin and author of the famous Gulliver’s Travels. In the area of the inner city known as the Liberties it was a favourite Saturday night dish and also a funeral food. The reason is purely practical – it doesn’t spoil if left cooking for an extra hour, as long as the heat is low enough! I love to make it and then settle down to a nice relaxing aperitif before tucking in later.

1 tablespoon cooking oil or butter 2 medium onions 5 potatoes 2 medium carrots 200ml stock or water 2 tablespoons parsley finely chopped Salt and pepper

In this version you can use any sausage type, pork, beef, lamb, venison or duck sausages. I have even made it with great success with chunks of chorizo. It is a great camping standby and very warming on a cold evening and not at all expensive.

Method: Chop the rashers and sausages into bite sized pieces. Heat oil in a large saucepan.

Brown the sausage pieces gently then add the bacon.

Irish Coddle

Garnish: Cherry tomatoes, parsley.

Wash, peel and slice the onion, potato and carrot, add to the saucepan. Season with plenty pepper and a little salt.

Cooking time:40 to 50 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients: 300g sausages( made from pork, beef, duck, or venison) 3 lean rashers or 100g lean bacon pieces

Pour on the stock, cover tightly and bring to the boil.

Meanwhile wash and chop the parsley finely. Add to the pot and gently mix.

Press the lid of a smaller saucepan over the coddle to keep in the steam. Cover the saucepan and lower the heat to a very gentle simmer for 30 – 40 minutes. This can be turned off, when cooked, left for a time and reheated gently later.

Serve garnished with chopped parsley and some cherry tomatoes. Traditionally this is served with buttered white soda bread and a glass of stout. I like to serve it with some crunchy washed celery stalks.

Variation: Add 100g red lentils, 100g split peas and a tin of chopped tomatoes with the stock. This makes a very tasty dish and is almost as economical.

Potato

H

ere is a tangy potato dish that can be served hot or cold. This is so good you should probably make double the amount.It is particularly good served hot with fish, frankfurters or even a fried egg. It marries well with barbequed chicken or sausage. It is great served next day with hardboiled eggs as part of a salad. Add cucumber, lettuce and tomato for a healthy meal. Fresh dill is the herb used to give a special flavour to this northern European dish. If you cant find fresh dill use half the quantity dried dill.

Warm Potato Salad

3 tablespoons cider vinegar 2 teaspoons cornflour 3 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon honey Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons fresh dill ( 1 tablespoon dried) Garnish: Chopped dill, hard boiled eggs ( optional).

Method: Wash and scrub the potatoes well. There is no need to peel.

Cut into quarters, cook in boiling salted water until soft. Drain well.

Add the honey and chopped dill, (keep some aside for garnish). Add salt and pepper to taste.

Meanwhile peel and dice the onion.

Serves: 4 400g small new potatoes preferably washed.

4 rashers of bacon

Heat the oil and gently fry rashers and onion until soft but not coloured. Remove the rasher and snip into small strips with a scissors or knife. Add to the potatoes.

Dressing: small red onion 1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix cornflour, vinegar, and water, add to the onion on the pan. Bring to the boil and stir until it thickens about 1 minute.

26 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Pour onto the warm potato and bacon, mix and serve hot or cold with more chopped dill.

If using the next day remember the three ‘C’s . Keep it clean, cold and covered.

Bon appeti Text: Marita McGeady & Martina Cribben

Motorhoming 1

Volkswagen offers Ex-Works Restoration for Classic Campervans

I

f any vehicle is worthy of the term ‘iconic’ it is Volkswagen's classic campervan. Sixty five years since it was unveiled, few other automobiles are so recognizable or have such a high cult factor as the Volkswagen. Even for people who have no interest in camping, the classic T2 Campervan represents freedom, travel and fun.

Inevitably though, the passage of time means getting hold of top quality chassis can be a challenge, despite a number of companies that are dedicated to keeping

the VW Camper in pristine condition.

That challenge may be lessened though with the announcement by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles that it has established a dedicated department to restore historic Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles ex-works for external customers, inclusive of detailed documentation.

The restoration work will be undertaken by the special department dedicated to preserving the VW Campervan’s heritage. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers was formed in 2007, since then

the team has purchased and restored about 100 vehicles To accommodate its new expanded remit, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers moved to a new building in Hannover at the beginning of this year.

An area of approximately 7,000 square meters now not only accommodates the historical treasures, but also houses a machine park which includes everything from a sheet metal bending bench, lathes and milling machines to its own paint shop.

The department now has a staff of 13, from

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

27

Motorhoming 1

mechanics to a technology historian and an event planner.

Owners of a historic Volkswagen Commercial vehicle can now have it restored at its place of origin. No matter whether a full or partial restoration is required, or just to simply make a vehicle roadworthy, the ‘Bulli’ workshop team will undertake any assignment. Paint renovation or an inspection is also possible, with staff talking through all personal

restoration wishes with the customer before preparing an individually tailored offer.

There is a unique feature and added bonus to getting the campervan restored by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers, as not only will the customer receive certificated ex-works restoration, but will also be provided with comprehensive documentation of the restoration of the vehicle, in

28 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

which every step is photographically documented and described in detail. Thus the work performed by the specialists from Hannover is recorded for posterity, and customers can leaf through their folder whenever they wish. Indeed some of the replacement parts needed when working on old vehicles are even taken from Volkswagen’s original stock, ensuring these newly pristine Campervans are original in a way few other restorations can match.

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

Interview “The VW Bus is a part of German cultural heritage and has to be preserved” Interview with Harald Schomburg, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and responsible for Sales and Marketing.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers has now been expanded.

Why? Since 2007 we have established Volkswagen Commercial vehicles Oldtimers as a separate department. A great deal has happened since then: we have bought up and restored a great number of old VW Buses. We needed more space, and on the other hand we also want to expand the department internally.

What does this mean in concrete terms?

As of now, we are offering external customers the opportunity to have their historic Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle restored by us.

What’s new about that?

This is a possibility which we did not previously have. In our new premises and with a new team, we are now able to offer this exclusive service. What we perform here is a factory restoration – partly even with with original Volkswagen parts – by Volkswagen mechanics and oldtimer specialists who for years have been doing nothing else but restore oldtimers from our production.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers is prepared to make every customer an individual offer. But what if the offer is too expensive for the customer?

We offer the best possible restoration at first hand, ex works in fact. This will have its price. However, we will charge the hourly rates that are customary in the trade. For instance, if the customer brings us a totally unrestored VW Bus for the purpose of rebuilding it from scratch, this may cost around 100,000 Euro.

However, we can also just carry out specific jobs individually or offer a partial restoration; we work this out in dialogue with the customer. And a works certificate for the restoration can only be obtained from us.

and our Currywurst Bus, where original Volkswagen curry sausage can be enjoyed.

We are also continually providing vehicles for film and TV productions. In future, we definitely want to rent out VW Buses to private customers too, but this will probably only be possible from 2013.

With about 100 vehicles occupying an area of 7,000 square meters, could Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers also be considered as a museum?

No, it is our internal works collection.

There is the AutoMuseum in Wolfsburg and the ZeitHaus museum in the Autostadt.

Viewing our exclusive collection remains the privilege of customers who bring their vehicles to us.

Many service providers offer VW Buses for hire. Will Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Oldtimers be doing the same?

This is the next step we are planning. In fact, we already rent out our Becks Bus, for instance, to Volkswagen partners and dealers, complete with beer bar,

Why is this important to you?

To us the VW Bus – or ‘Bulli’, as it is known to German aficionados – is an icon of great value. It is, so to speak, the emotional heart of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Brand and thus a heritage which needs to be preserved.

But at the same time every VW Bus still in existence is, of course, also a valuable German cultural good in need of preservation. And with each restoration, we are preserving a piece of living history. www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

29

Classic Volkswagen Specialists

FUEL EFFICIENT ECU MAPPING FOR CAMPERS, CARS & COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Ecotune: ECU Remapping and Chip Tuning Reduced Fuel Costs by up to 20%

Cosy Classics Unit 1, Block 642 Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin.

Call Now: (01) 4016055 Email: sales@cosyclassics.ie Web: www.cosyclassics.ie OPENING HOURS ARE: Monday to Friday 9am - 6pm Saturdays from 10am - 2pm We are closed on bank holiday weekends.

• Greater power, greater torque, increase performance by up to 50% • Cars / Commercial and Truck Tuning • Car Diagnostics • Petrol and Diesel Engines • DPF Lights turned off Call John O’Sullivan 087 1167559 / 093 35847 www.ecotune.ie • email: info@ecotune.ie

M7 Vehicle Testing Ltd Unit V, M7 Business Park, Naas, Co. Kildare Ph: 045 880672 Fax: 045 888729 Email: info@m7vtn.com

Vehicle Testing for Motor Homes

As of 1st March 2012, all Motor Homes in Ireland require a Commercial Vehicle Test.

At M7 Vehicle Testing, we will be happy to assist you.

Call us on ph: 045 880672 or email us at info@m7vtn.com and we will make a booking for you.

Location: Junction 10 off the M7 Dublin/Limerick Road.

Tow Car Review

Volkswagen’s Amarok ticks the tow-car boxes

T

he Volkswagen Amarok might not be the obvious first choice for someone looking for a suitable tow-car for hauling their caravan around, but delve a little into what it has to offer, and you begin to realize that Double-Cab Pick-Ups of this type could be the ideal companion for family holidays.

Here at Caravan Cruise Ireland magazine, we have had an Amarok on an extended test drive (in association with sister publication Fleet Transport & Utility), and have been putting it through various tests during its time with us. Notably in respect of our review here, it has been pressed into service as tow car for our newly acquired Bailey Orion 440-4.

Let's consider the attributes to look for in a good towing vehicle? Ability to pull is probably the primary one. With a braked towing capacity of 2.8 tonnes, the Amaraok will make light work of pulling all but the largest caravan. It is certainly more than up to the task of hauling our Bailey Orion 440-4 with its MTPLM of 1287kg around, even on steeper inclines barely pausing for breath.

wide vehicle featuring generously proportioned wind mirrors, we had clear views behind us without the need to attach mirror extensions.

Inevitably fuel consumption suffers, our initial test drives reveal that whereas we average around 8.5 l/100 km (33mpg) in the Amarok unladen, it struggles to better 11.5 l/100 km (24.5mpg) with caravan in tow. But in fairness that is about the percentage increase in consumption that you would expect with a wind resistant attachment behind.

So as a towing vehicle, the Amarok scores highly; what about its attributes as a passenger car? In fact since we first drove it a couple of years ago, we have commented that Volkswagen has redefined the interior standards of the Pick-Up market. In particular, the rear passenger area, traditionally poorly designed with far to upright rear seats, now accommodates three full size adults comfortably. The rest of the interior is also classic Volkswagen design, which is

to say very well put together, with lots of practical storage areas.

Aha you say, but where to put all the family luggage and belongings when going on holiday? And granted, as tested with an open load compartment, you wouldn’t want to leave any valuables in the back of the Amarok. That problem can be addressed however, as Volkswagen offers a selection of hardtop canopies and tonneau covers with secure locking.

And with a payload capability of over 1.1 tonnes, you won’t have to worry about overloading the Amarok. Perfect for stocking up on wine on your way back from France!

There is of course one other advantage to choosing a vehicle such as the Amarok as your tow car. If you ever decide you want to upgrade your caravan to one of the much more spacious and increasingly popular American fifth wheel type models that can only be pulled by pick-ups fitted with special fifth wheel hitches, you are already halfway there.

On the move, the Amaraok/caravan combination feels very stable, whether driving on motorways or twisting country lanes. At no time did we experience the dreaded caravan sway, even when overtaking articulated trucks on the motorway. And while we haven’t found ourselves needing it yet, there is the added reassurance of four wheel drive for occasions when that extra bit of traction is needed We also like the fact that being a relatively Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

31

Motorhoming 2

Roadworthiness Testing of Motor Caravans • From the 1st March 2012 new regulations came into effect regarding the roadworthiness testing of Motor Caravans.

T

he Road Safety Authority (RSA) is tasked with reducing the number of deaths and injuries on Irish roads. The four key elements of road safety that the RSA consider in trying to achieve this are Education, Enforcement, Evaluation and Engineering. The ongoing roadworthiness of a vehicle is an important component of Engineering and all road users should be confident that a minimum standard of roadworthiness is maintained for all vehicles. As a result it is RSA policy that all road going vehicles in Ireland would be subject to a periodic roadworthiness test.

In this regard there are two distinct roadworthiness testing regimes in this country. The National Car Test (NCT) is required for all passenger cars having 8 passenger seats or less (not including the driver’s seat). The Commercial Vehicle Test (CVT) is required for all commercial vehicles and trailers (over 3.5 tonnes design gross vehicle weight) and is divided into two distinct tests; a light commercial vehicle test (for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes design gross vehicle weight) and a heavy commercial vehicle test. Passenger vehicles, having more than 8 passenger seats, are tested as part of the heavy commercial vehicle testing regime.

All member states of the European Union are required to test motor vehicles for roadworthiness and many of our European neighbours would include Motor Caravans (Motor Homes) as part of their testing regime.

In May 2009 it became a penalty point offence to use a vehicle in a public place without a certificate of roadworthiness.

At this point the RSA received many enquiries from Motor Caravan owners as to the requirement of having their vehicle tested. The RSA advised motor caravan owners to get their vehicles tested at a CVT test centre, as many Motor Caravan owners up to that date would have used those facilities to have their vehicles tested.

32 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Motorhoming 2 However, on inspection of the Road Traffic legislation concerning vehicle testing, we felt it necessary to conduct a review of this area, including a public consultation, with a view to including specific requirements for Motor Caravans in our national testing regulations (S.I. No. 771 of 2004).

The RSA have now revised our national roadworthiness testing regulations to ensure that an appropriate test is mandated for Motor Caravans and from the 1st March 2012 all Motor Caravans are required to comply with the following testing arrangements.

•

•

Motor Caravans must be tested at CVT Test Centres. Vehicles with a DGVW not exceeding 3500kg will be tested in a LGV (Light Goods Vehicle) test lane and testing of LGVs is conducted in 140 test centres throughout the country. Vehicles with a DGVW exceeding 3,500kg will be tested in a HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) test lane and testing of HGVs is conducted in 90 test centres throughout the country. Further details, including test centre contact details are available on the RSA website under the ‘Vehicle Testing’ tab, where a dedicated webpage has been created in relation to the roadworthiness testing of motor caravans.

When a motor caravan passes its roadworthiness test, the owner is issued with a pass statement by the test centre which must be exchanged at the local motor tax office for a certificate of roadworthiness (CRW) as soon as possible. The fee for exchanging a pass statement for a CRW at your Motor Tax Office is €6.

•

Motor Caravans must be tested on the fourth anniversary of first registration and thereafter every two years until the vehicle is ten years old, after which annual testing applies.

•

Motor Caravans first registered prior to 1st January 1980 are exempt from testing.

•

A new fee structure applies to Motor Caravans depending on the number of axles fitted to the vehicle. Motor Caravans with two axles will be charged €70.86 plus VAT (VAT rate currently 23%) and Motor Caravans with three or more axles will be charged €88.58 plus VAT.

•

Retests, where necessary following a vehicle failing its original test must be conducted within 21 calendar days and where the use of test lane equipment is necessary the costs are €35.43 excluding VAT for a motor caravan with two axles and €44.29 excluding VAT for motor caravans with three or more axles.

•

Vehicles with living accommodation which are also used for transporting goods, i.e. vehicles fitting the description of a ‘living van’ such as livestock transporters etc are, for test purposes, goods vehicles. This has been clarified in the amendment regulations.

The RSA has prepared an Information Note and an FAQ document for all Motor Caravan Owners which includes further details on test due dates and notes on items to be tested.

These documents are available on the RSA website www.rsa.ie or by calling 096 25014 from 9:00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Monday to Thursday and from 9:00 a.m. to 5.15 p.m. on Fridays or by email at vehiclestandards@rsa.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

33

BRIDGING THE BEST OF

IRELAND’S WEST

KERRY TO CLARE THE EASY WAY!

A: Killimer, Kilrush, Co. Clare.

T: +353 65 9053124 E: enquiries@shannonferries.com

www.shannonferries.com

Motorhomes to exactly match your needs

We supply and fit a full range of accessories for all our motorhomes. We are Irish agents for Reimo and Movera Motorhomes Accessories and guarantee the highest quality products. Cara Motor Homes offer a full selection of motor homes available for rental.

• Annual habitation check and service • Accessory supply and fitting/repair • Fully equipped workshop We are agents for the following;

Cara Motorhomes - For Sales, Service and Rentals Co. Limerick

Tel: +353 (0)69 64400 Fax: +353 (0)69 63937 Email: info@caramotorhomes.ie Web: www.caramotorhomes.ie Office Opening Times: Tuesday - Saturday 9.30am - 6pm Open late evenings & Sundays by appointment

Travel Abroad

Taking the Ferry to Euro 2012

I

n the Spring 2011 edition of Caravan Cruise Ireland we discussed how to get the best value when travelling by ferry with caravans and motorhomes, and the various services in operation on the Irish Sea and those linking Ireland with France. For the 2012 season there is a more extensive list of services and a number of the Shipping Lines have introduced new capacity. In this piece we will discuss these changes and also the “landbridge” links across Great Britain to continental Ports, particularly those links that may be useful to members of “Trap’s army” headed for the Euro 2012 Finals in Poland.

In speaking with each of the ferry operators it became clear that the best and cheapest way for the motorhome or caravan traveller, is to book ferries though one of the caravan clubs. The Ferry Companies give such clubs a range of special fares with significant discounts on “off-peak” sailings. For the Ferry Company “off-peak” may not be the sailings for which there is less passenger demand, but those on which there is less freight travelling. While many of the cruise ferries and what are known as “ro-pax” (Roll-on/Roll-off freight and passenger ferries) vessels have vehicle deck heights of 5 metres or more, and thus, can easily accommodate caravans or motorhomes, the fast ferries, other than the Stena Line HSS, cannot accommodate caravans and have limited motorhome capacity.

The Irish Sea The most significant capacity and service increases on the Irish Sea are on the Northern corridor, while the Southern corridor

suffered the loss of the Cork to Swansea Fastnet line service. At the time of writing, efforts are continuing to revive that service, but it now appears unlikely that it will run this year. On the direct Continental routes Celtic Link Ferries introduced the “Celtic Horizon”, a vessel offering significantly more capacity than the one that she replaced.

Caravan Cruise Ireland spoke with each of the main operators, and the offerings and comments are best set out by company.

Stena Line In November 2011 Stena Line completed a £200 million investment project on its services linking Belfast and Scotland. The line now operates out the VT3 terminal in Belfast Port, developed in conjunction with Belfast Harbour in 2008 and with close access to the Motorway system and allowing ferry users to avoid the City Traffic.

The line then chartered and completely rebuilt a pair of “Superfast” ferries to service a route linking Belfast with a terminal developed by Stena at Cairnryan, some miles down Loch Ryan from its terminal of almost 150 years at Stranraer.

Each of the new vessels has a capacity for 1200 passengers, car deck capacity for 650 cars and a truck/high vehicle deck of over 1900 lane metres. Scheduled passage time is two and a quarter hours with six evenly spaced round trip sailings a day.

In conjunction with the completion of the new Cairnryan Terminal the Scottish Executive has undertaken considerable roadworks to facilitate easy connection to

the main highway routes for traffic using both this Terminal and the P&O Ferries terminal just a mile away. The Stena terminal is well equipped with parking as well as indoor and outdoor seating areas.

The three vessels previously operating the Scottish route have been withdrawn from Stena service.

In early 2011 Stena purchased the Belfast to Birkenhead route from DFDS Seaways, which in turn had bought it from Norfolk Line only a few months before. The two ro-pax vessels now named, “Stena Mersey” and “Stena Lagan”, each with capacity for 170 cars and with 2800 lane metres of truck/ high vehicle had served various owners on the route, and have been maintained there

by Stena. This route offers two sailings a day in each direction, and Stena is placing more marketing emphasis on the passenger business than had previously been the case.

Stena’s Holyhead schedules out of Dublin are unchanged for 2012 and the line has confirmed that HSS service from Dun Laoghaire will resume at the end of March, running through until October. This vessel is well suited to the carriage of caravans and motorhomes on its daily round trip.

The veteran of the Stena Irish Sea fleet, the “Stena Europe” continues her twice daily round trip service from Rosslare Europort to Fishguard. For a vessel of her comparatively modest size, the “Europe” has substantial carrying capacity, being able to take up to 500 cars and a freight deck capacity of

35

▲

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

Travel Abroad

1300 lane metres. Stena has withdrawn and sold on the fast ferry “Stena Lynx” that supplemented the Rosslare vessel in the high season and this, together with the likely non-appearance of the Swansea – Cork service this year, is likely to put more pressure on her peak season capacity.

P&O Ferries This company, which can trace its ferry operations on the Irish Sea back to the early post WWII days and which owns the port of Larne, retains the shortest routes to Britain with two Ro-Pax vessels operating up to seven round trips a day between them.

Transit time from Larne to Cairnryan is just under two hours while the “P&O Express” fast craft has a quay to quay timing of just one hour on the same route. Arthur Murphy of P&O told “Caravan Cruise” that this vessel’s service gives you just about time to have a cup of coffee before going down to drive off again. The summer service fast craft operates twice daily from Larne to Cairnryan and once daily to Troon. At the

end of 2011, P&O withdrew its freight ferry from the Troon route.

The two Ro-pax vessels have similar capacity to the new Stena vessels, each taking up to 375 cars and with 1825 lane metres of vehicle deck space. They are also near sisters of the “Stena Nordica”, presently running on the Dublin Holyhead route.

(That vessel had been built for P&O and, as the “European Ambassador” had operated a weekday Dublin to Mostyn service while sailing at summer weekends from Dublin to Cherbourg). The “P&O Express” has limited motorhome capacity but cannot take caravans.

On the central corridor P&O operates three ro-pax vessels between Dublin and Liverpool giving a three times daily service in each direction. Vehicle space on each vessel is about 2000 lane metres while passenger capacity is just over 100 on the two older vessels. That on the “European Endeavour” which became permanent on

36 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

the service in summer 2011 is 300.

The generally heavy freight loadings on these vessels restricts capacity for cars, motorhomes etc. though P&O does maintain a dialogue with the Caravan Clubs so as to be able to allocate such space as is available.

Irish Ferries The Irish Sea offering from this company is, in terms of schedules and vessels, similar to 2011, with twice daily cruise ferry sailings ex Dublin to Holyhead and ex Rosslare Europort to Pembroke, and the year round twice daily “Dublin Swift” fast craft covering the Holyhead route in less than two hours.

In addressing the question of motorhomes and caravans, Dermot Merrigan at Irish ferries told “Caravan Cruise”: “On the Irish Sea the larger and more spacious cruise Ferries “Ulysses” on the Dublin/Holyhead route and the “Isle of Inishmore” on the

Travel Abroad Rosslare/Pembroke route are generally the best bets for availability, especially for those customers driving larger vehicles.

Our night time cruise ferry sailings can be busier with freight traffic, so, as it happens the more preferable morning sailings offer the best availability for leisure traffic on most days”. The “Ulysses” capacity to take over 1300 cars and deck capacity of over 4000 lane metres makes her the largest vessel operating on the Irish Sea. On the question of travel costs, Dermot Merrigan says: “On the Irish Sea, our cruise ferry sailings offer the best value and availability. If a night time ferry crossing is suitable, it can normally be booked a little cheaper than the daytime sailings.

For customers who travel regularly over and back to Britain, we also have our very popular Frequent Traveller scheme, where customers who register online for free can get quite a tasty 20% back off their total spend after just three return trips for use against future travel”. “Customers with Campers and motorhomes can avail of the very same promotional deals as our car passengers, so it is worth keeping an eye out or signing up for our latest offers online. Furthermore, if you are a member of the Irish Camping & Caravanning Club, you can actually avail of a further discount on our very best fares for both Britain and France”.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Access to the Isle of Man for high sided vehicles from Ireland is difficult. The company’s services from Douglas to both Belfast and Dublin are operated by the fast ferry “Manannan” which has limited capacity for small motorhome vehicles.

There is a conventional vessel service operated by the Company for Liverpool and Heysham. The “Manannan” vessel had, prior to its Isle of Man service, spent a number of years in US Army service.

freight to a more Ro-pax ferry operation. The new vessel has sleeping accommodation for 480, can take up to 170 cars, and her high vehicle decks extend to 2885 lane metres.

The “Celtic Horizon” sails three times weekly to Cherbourg, on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings. (When the FranceIreland Six Nations rugby match was put off at the last minute due to the pitch in Paris being frozen and the likely re-fixed date was going to be the following Friday evening, Celtic Link put together an offer of free travel for match ticket holders! The match was switched instead to Sunday and, as the schedules did not work, Celtic Link did not proceed with the offer). The Line carried 60,000 passengers in 2010 on the Rosslare route and expects to grow this number to 85,000 in 2012.

McCall says; ”What’s special about Celtic Link Ferries are its prices. Celtic Link Ferries have the absolute best prices for anybody travelling between Ireland and France with summer savings of up to 35% compared to other routes”. The line also offers free pet travel whether in kennels aboard the vessel

or in the owner’s car.

Brittany Ferries Brittany Ferries will operate its weekly Cork to Roscoff service each Saturday from 31 March through to 3 November this year.

The vessel will be the “Pont Aven” which is the fastest Cruise ferry operating on Irish routes taking eleven hours for the voyage and she can accommodate up to 650 cars.

There is cabin accommodation for most of the 2400 passenger capacity on the vessel. Brittany Ferries also offers a range of landbridge routes over Britain to France and to Northern Spain.

Irish Ferries This company has a history of running direct ferries out of Rosslare to France since the 1970’s. Their cruise ferry “Oscar Wilde” sails from Rosslare three times weekly. In the off-season all sailings are to Cherbourg while the summer schedule operates in a mix of Cherbourg and Roscoff sailings. The “Oscar Wilde” can accommodate up to 750 cars, has 1160 lane metres of high vehicle space and some 750 beds.

Direct Continental Services Rosslare Europort is the hub for the direct services to France operated by Celtic Link Ferries and Irish Ferries. John Lynch, General Manager at the County Wexford Port tells Caravan Cruise Ireland that work is ongoing there on the improvement of passenger facilities with new shop and restaurant facilities planned for summer 2012.

Rory McCall of Celtic Link says that the introduction of the “Celtic Horizon” vessel last October marks a significant shift in the company’s focus from being primarily on 37

▲

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

Travel Abroad as far a drive as first thought for a group of fans with a few drivers on board.”

Stena Line is a major player on the “landbridge” market linking its Irish Sea services with its own and other English Channel and North Sea Services. Diane Poole, Stena’s Head of Communications, says; ”Stena Line is offering great value fares for caravanners travelling to Euro 2012, from €578 return for two adults and two children travelling from Dublin Port to Holyhead, Rosslare to Fishguard or Belfast to Cairnryan, and onward from Dover to Dunkirk by Super ferry. Additional Adults can travel from €46 return and additional children from €28 return.

Photo courtesy of David Klyne - davidklyne.co.uk

Concerning their service, Dermot Merrigan of Irish Ferries says;” Naturally during the popular summer months of June and July our sailings are more heavily booked with families heading off to enjoy the French sunshine, but even on these dates the secret is to book early to guarantee your own vehicle space and choice of cabins on board. Don’t forget that during this season customers can enjoy our fantastic cabaret show and one board entertainment, which is free.”. “Bookings to France can also be confirmed with a low booking deposit of just €100 with no need to pay the balance until just six weeks before travel. As always on all of our routes, if a group of vehicles are travelling together for a special occasion or a particular event, the best course of action is to drop us a line and we’re always keen to see if we can arrange a better deal for them”.

Trap’s Army Speaking about Euro 2012 and the London Olympics, Dermot Merrigan said; "Both events are obviously attracting huge interest and with the airlines heavily booked and their remaining prices hard to swallow, many sports fans are grouping together and turning to Irish Ferries for their travel plans. By pooling together, fans are keeping their travel costs down per head, and campers and motorhomes by ferry provide the perfect form of transport and accommodation, with added ‘craic’ “. He goes on; "Although it seems a fair distance to travel overland, many of Trap’s Army have already done their sums and realised that to Gdansk in Poland, it is only a 20 hour drive from Cherbourg. Via Britain with our landbridge partners it’s only 15 hours from the Eurotunnel exit at Calais, or a 13 hour drive from the Port of Rotterdam! So, not

P&O Ferries do not offer formal “landbridge” arrangements. Arthur Murphy tells us that this is mainly due to the complexity of the matrix of fare offers, many of which vary with date of booking etc. However, the Line does have competitive offers and with over 27 sailings a day on their Dover to Calais route virtually unlimited capacity. They have recently introduced onto that route their largest and most luxurious ferries, the “Spirit of Britain” and Spirit of France” each with passenger capacity for 2000.

For travellers using P&O’s Liverpool or Cairnryan services a good option might be to follow the M62 to Hull and sail on the Line’s overnight routes to either Rotterdam or Zeebrugge.

DFDS Seaways, in conjunction with Stena offers an overnight Newcastle to Amsterdam service, while Stena operates a twice daily Harwich to Hook of Holland service.

Caravan Cruise Ireland also spoke with Eurotunnel. It will increase the speed of its passenger Shuttles from 140 km/h to 160 km/h, reducing journey time through the tunnel to 30 minutes. The main reason for doing this is to turn trains round more quickly and increase capacity to meet peaks in demand. Capacity will be further increased with the addition of further new equipment to the services. Eurotunnel is also considering the purchase of the Sea France cross-channel ferry fleet with a view to having the vessels operated by another Company on their behalf, thus adding further capacity.

In summary the dominant message from all the people to whom we spoke in preparation of this piece is that it is essential to get bookings in at the earliest possible opportunity. A detailed study of the internet could also pay huge dividends.

38 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

NOW Stocking KVH Marine Satellite TV

Finsure

O’Brien Finlay Insurance Associates Finsure, Bridge House Baggot Street Bridge, Dublin 4.

Tel. 01 6601033 Fax. 01 6687985 Website. www.finsure.ie

• Finsure is Ireland’s leading provider of Mobile Home and Caravan Insurance • Our policy provides a wide range of benefits including cover for 60 days touring in Europe • Low policy excess • Competitive premiums • For a competitive quotation please contact our dedicated Finsure Team Directors: TM Gleeson; NP Maher BA ACII; Secretary DP Collins FCCA TMITI Finsure is a brand name of O’Brien Finaly Insurance Associates Ltd. which is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Registered in Ireland Number 39988. Irish Brokers Association member.

Park Review

Woodlands Caravan and Camping Park Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland.

A family friendly, well managed site with dedicated pitches for disabled campers.

Address: Dan Spring Road, Tralee Co. Kerry.

Tourist Board Grade: 4* Tel: 066 7121235/ 066 8253908 Web: www.kingdomcamping.com Email: woodlandstralee@gmail.com

12 Mar – 30 Sept / 22 Oct – 31 Oct / Winter Weekends

W

oodlands Caravan and Camping Park presents a welcoming vista for the tiring traveller as you approach reception down a tree-lined avenue. As with all things, some campsites are better managed than others and this can sometimes be immediately obvious on approach (although some it must be said can be deceptive!). The immediate impression here is of a well managed, well maintained site with plenty of personal touches from the neatly cut grass and well maintained driveway, to the flowers decorating the entrance and the relaxed, elderly golden retriever sprawled across the reception entrance!

Woodlands has been winning awards ever since it opened its doors back at the end of the ‘90’s. Not having any immediate competition in Tralee has not encouraged the owners Mike and Martina McDonnell to rest on their laurels, but

Pitch + 2 Adults + 2 Children + Dog + Hook-up ...27 – 30 (Euros) (no charge for dogs) NUMBER OF PITCHES: More than 100 hardstands, all with electric hook-up. Pitches without electric hook-up also available.

FACILITIES: Toilet Block (incl. disabled persons toilet facilities), campers’ kitchen, selfservice laundry, children’s playground, TV room, small shop, games room.

40 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

they have sought year-on-year to bring further improvements to the range of facilities offered. It is several years since we have used this campsite for a week or two week holiday but we have regularly used it, among a few others, for weekend trips over the past few years.

The location of Woodlands Caravan and Camping Park on the southern edge of Tralee town allows its guests full and easy access to amenities such as the resplendent ship canal, the indoor aquatic centre and the currently under construction (due to be completed in 2012) outdoor water adventure park.

Also in the immediate area are tennis courts, a multi-screen cinema, a cycle/ walking path, the town park, a running track under construction and a 4 star hotel with restaurant and bar.

The campsite has both hard standing and grass pitches. Each of the hard stands has a water tap and electric hook-up.

Park Review

The hardstands are gravel, allowing for good drainage which is very necessary in a typical Irish summer! Extra wide pitches, close by the facilities block, are reserved for campers with disabilities.

The campsite is divided into three separate areas, along the lines of the original fields it would appear. The ‘main’ field comprises approx. 50% of the campsite and seems to be primarily used by families. The children’s playground is located in this area. One of the other two fields has a small number of new statics as well as hardstands, used in the most part it appears, by those seeking a quieter stay and/or for rallies. The third field is used mainly for tents, although there

Text & Photos: John O'Connell

are hardstands along one side used by caravans and motor homes.

All toilet and shower facilities...indeed, all facilities such as laundry, TV room, games room, campers’ kitchen, small shop and chemical disposal are located in the block at reception. This can mean a longer walk for those using the pitches in the smaller two fields. All the facilities are of a high standard and very well maintained. New for this year is a covered barbecue area, allowing for barbecues even when the weather would normally prevent it. Access to the site for campers is by key fob which provides added security.

The owners clearly run a tight ship, without ever giving the impression that it’s a chore...in fact, quite the opposite.

Two more friendly or helpful people running a campsite would be difficult to find.

We have been present on site both when there have been as few as twenty units and when the site has been full to capacity. Due in large part to the spacing between pitches and the abundant toilet/ shower facilities, it has never felt overcrowded. We’ve always enjoyed our stays at this campsite and with a great deal to explore in the local area, we have no hesitation in recommending it and we’ll be back there again soon.

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

41

Launch Pad

Hyundai i800 Campervan continues to impress

First Drive

F

or the past year or so, we have continued to be impressed with the work done by Wellhouse in creating a campervan version of the Hyundai i800. Having first laid eyes on the superb conversion job at one of the Shows in Birmingham, we knew that this van is 5 star quality and we’re just not talking about Hyundai’s 5-year warranty package.

What the i800 Campervan - to give it its full title - has in its favour to start with is that it is based on the Hyundai i800 Montana people carrier and not the van model. Therefore the body frame and chassis is structurally stronger and features a higher-level specification. And because the multi-award winning i800 is built like a car, it drives like one. Size wise it is very practical and can serve as an everyday vehicle, while at the weekend and holiday periods it transforms into a comfortable camper. Added to the fact at 2 meters in height, there are no restrictions on its use.

brand names from Webasto (heating and hot water system), Dometic, Whale, SMEV (hot/oven/grille) and Vitrifrigo (fridge).

The drivetrain has all the Hyundai quality we have come to enjoy and respect.

Powered by the latest Euro 5 2.5 litre CRDi diesel engine and mated (if required) to a 5 speed automatic transmission, it is pleasant to drive. On a test run in scenic South Mayo along some bumpy and curvy roads, the i800 remained smooth and calm throughout with no rattles or hums to be heard. Along the shores of Lough Carra, it's unobtrusiveness fitted in well, just as it would for visits to caravan parks.

Inside, the i800 is surprisingly spacious.

Entry is through the sliding side door or

As a 2+2, the i800 Campervan accommodates 2 adults and 2 children with ease, and like its Volkswagen California and Mercedes-Benz Marco Polo competitors it has the customary pop-up roof and roof bed with protective net (optional). For the record other options available include awnings, bike racks, and 2 solar panel. From that small list you begin to realise that the standard specification is of a high level featuring top supplier 42 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

through the main doors with seats that swivel around. Attached to the passengers seat when stopped is a removable table.

Another one is to be found placed in front of the 3-person bench seat with seat belts positioned over the rear wheels.

This folds down to open up a two-person bed. Storage is good with lockers on the side panels and luggage space to the rear.

Here you will find the external shower unit with privacy coverage from the removable wrap around awning.

It is no surprise therefore that this Motorhome of the Year 2011 award winning Campervan version of the Hyundai i800 is attracting attention.

Wellhouse, based in Hudderfield is coping with demand. Just last month, David Elliot and his team turned out eight

Launch Pad About Wellhouse

units to new customers produced over a two week period. Hyundai Ireland is soon to announce a Dublin based sales and service dealer. For the Northern Irish market a sales/service agent will be appointed on behalf of Hyundai UK.

Other:

SPEC CHECK

•

Fridge: Vitrifrigo C47 47 litre compressor fridge

•

• • • •

Located near Huddersfield on the Southwest Yorkshire border, Wellhouse offers a range of conversation based on Japanese vehicles such as Toyota, Honda & Mazda/Ford and most recently the Hyundai i800 camper.

In June 2011, Wellhouse gained ISO 9001 Certification, which clearly demonstrates its commitment to quality and customer service. As market leader in the compact motorhome marketplace, Wellhouse converts vehicles to order and the lead-time is usually between 2-6 months depending on time of year. Enquires from all over the world have come in from countries such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Wellhouse has even supplied LHD to Sweden to demonstrate the company’s International theme.

Easy assemble occasional table.

External shower unit.

Domestic 972 portable toilet.

Swivel passenger seat with occasional table.

Ample storage with innovative sliding doors.

Large boot with plenty of luggage space.

“We build all of our campers to the highest standard, regardless of the type of conversation or price range you select. We don’t do ‘cheap, budget, bargain or economy’. Instead, we prefer to offer ‘quality, style and excellence’ – at the same price,” said David Elliot, Managing Director, Wellhouse.

Hob & Sink: SMEV combination 2 ring hob and sink with piezo ignition Oven: SMEV oven/grille with light and electric ignition Water: 45 litre fresh water and 45 litre waste water onboard tanks with Whale pressure water pump.

Heating: Webasto Thermatop diesel powered heating/hot water/parking heater with timer.

Electrics: 240V & 12V power outlets, 115Ah leisure battery, 12A intelligent battery charger, split charging system from engine battery, 25m mains hook up lead, electrical control panel.

Gas: Gas locker with bulk head regulator, which can accommodate 7kg butane or 6kg propane.

Bed: Reimo 333 Variotech bench seat with three 3 point seatbelts – makes into a 6ft x 4ft bed.

Lights: LED lighting all round, adjustable roof bed reading lamp.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

43

Product

Whale – Leading the way in innovative engineering solutions

I

reland may not be known for manufacturing high profile end products such as cars or motorhomes, but when it comes to the vital parts, components and equipment that enable them all to work, there is a proud engineering tradition here.

An example of such a firm is Munster Simms Engineering Ltd. Better known as its brand name Whale, this Bangor, County Down company is rapidly establishing itself as one of the key component suppliers to the recreational vehicle sector. Also well known for supplying components for the leisure marine and shower drainage industries, Whale is becoming an increasingly familiar name on motorhomes and caravans, as more and more manufacturers are installing its products as original equipment on their vehicles.

At the recent Motorhome, Caravan & Camping Show at ExCel in London, Whale unveiled three new products that bring new levels of technology into the caravan and motorhome sector. Among them was an intelligent Control Panel, a full colour touchscreen control unit that uses wireless technology to control all Whale Water Heater and Space Heater functions in a motorhome or caravan.

It includes an easy programmable timer that enables the temperature and power source for the Water and Space Heater to be selected separately, and allows for up to three programmable settings per unit, per day.

Another new innovation from Whale is the introduction of a new Intelligent Control water system for mobile leisure vehicles. Designed to combat the problem of submersible pumps pulsating or failing to turn off due to surges or reductions in battery voltage, Whale’s new Watermaster IC intelligently controls the pressure switch, thereby eliminating the need to manually adjust, which has been the case up to now. The Watermaster IC uses advanced electronics to monitor the level of the battery voltage and

compensates for high/low operating voltages when required. Whale states that when installed with a Whale High Flow submersible pump, the Watermaster IC maintains perfect water flow between 10-14V. Additionally it has an emergency mode, which allows for a limited amount of water through the system at extremely low voltages.

Whale’s third new product launch at the ExCel show is an adaption of its award winning Space Heater range that has allowed manufacturers to radically adjust the layouts of 'van interiors. Designed for medium to larger sized vehicles, the new 4kW Underfloor Space Heater with twin ducts can use both gas and electric simultaneously for higher heat output.

Once a certain temp erature is reached, the system reduces the heat output in stages, until eventually only the gas is left running.

The heater will then monitor the ambient temperature, and can re-engage the electric mode if necessary. The twin

44 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

ducting system allows a higher heat output, and blows air through the 'van evenly for effective space heating, while the underfloor design maximizes the interior space available to the caravan or motorhome manufacturer.

That Whale’s engineering prowess is held in high regard is reflected in the fact that its Underfloor Gas and Electric Space Heater was awarded the ‘biggest caravan innovation of the year’ by readers in the 2011 Caravan Times Reader’s Poll.

Proof indeed that Irish engineering and innovation can compete with, and better, the best in the world.

Text: Cathal Doyle Photos: Jarlath Sweeney

.12&.

&$5$9$1 &$03,1* 3$5.

0DLQ 6WUHHW .QRFN &R 0D\R 7HO )D[

FDUDYDQSDUN#NQRFN VKULQH LH 23(1 0$5&+ 72 2&72%(5

7RXULQJ &DUDYDQV 0RWRUKRPHV &DPSHUV :HOFRPH , & & $SSURYHG $$ 5HFRPPHQGHG &DUDYDQ &OXE 6LWH 5HFRPPHQGHG E\ WKH $ODQ 5RJHUV *RRG &DPSV *XLGH 0HPEHU RI WKH 7RXULQJ &OXE GH %HOJLTXH

.12&. 086(80

&DSWXUHV WKH FRPSHOOLQJ VWRU\ RI WKH .QRFN $SSDULWLRQ RI 2SHQ GDLO\ DP ² SP 3KRQH (PDLO PXVHXP#NQRFN VKULQH LH

&$)e /( &+e,/(

$W .QRFN 0XVHXP *UHDW IRRG DOO 'D\

*URXSV :HOFRPH 2SHQ GDLO\ DP ² SP 3KRQH (PDLO FDIHOHFKHLOH#NQRFN VKULQH LH

leisure ďŹ x A Big Job Done...

1 hour from Dublin 1 hour from Belfast

. bby . . rity� o h r u o “Y r prio . . . Ou

Before

OUR SERVICES

Finished Product

In Progress

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

leisure ďŹ x

Accident Management

Breakdown Recovery Electrical Rewiring Alumimium Repair Design & Printing Servicing 3 year guarantee Refurbishment Body Work Repair Bathroom & Plumbing Tyre Sales Air Conditioning Plastic Repair Specialised Painting Fibre Glass Repair Reupholster Interior & Exterior Design ...basically everything thats needed.

Ennislare Road, Armagh Tel: +44 7756022782 Corrintra, Castleblaney, Co. Monaghan Tel: 00 353 42 974 9470

www.leisureďŹ x.ie

We are proud to introduce the Megasat range of products Megasat Campingman Portable.

Fully Automatic Just connect 1 cable, switch on the power and the dish will find the Satellite Automatically. No Tools or Meter required lightweight easily transportable.

Fully enclosed in weather proof dome. Ideal for Campers,Caravans, Boats & Trucks.

Megasat Campingman Fully Automatic Just switch on the power and the dish will find the Satellite Automatically.

Fully enclosed in weather proof dome. Works with any receiver.

Megasat LED HD TV Built in Saorview, Satellite and DVD Player. Uses less power than most satellite receivers. 12/24/230 Volt .

Available in 16, 19 & 22 Inch

aertec, Trim, Co. Meath. Phone: 086 2320234

Waterways

Ahoy ahead for Waterways Ireland

I

t has been a successful first decade for Waterways Ireland, the North-South Implementation body established in 1999 as part of the Belfast Agreement. Set up to promote and develop the economic and social contribution of Ireland’s inland waterways, Waterways Ireland is checking its course for the next five years.

In essence, Waterways Ireland is charged with the management, maintenance, development and restoration of certain inland navigable waterway systems throughout the island of Ireland, principally for recreational purposes. It is responsible for the following navigational systems: Barrow Navigation, Erne System, Grand Canal, to Lower Bann Navigation, Royal Canal, Shannon Erne Waterway and Shannon Navigation. It is also responsible for the restoration of that part of the Ulster Canal between Lough Erne and Clones, and as plans are afoot to restore the rest of the Ulster Canal to the upper Bann (which links directly to Lough Neagh and eventually the Northern Irish Coastline through the lower Bann Navigation) Waterways Ireland will be involved.

In June 2011, Waterways Ireland developed its first marketing and promotional strategy. Based on its mission statement, its marketing role was defined as to “increase awareness and p promote greater use of Ireland’s Navigable able inland Waterways”.

the longer stay holidays have declined.

Demand for leisure activities has never been greater, however - walking, cycling and water-sports are becoming more popular as the product offerings and facilities continue to improve. In addition more people are buying into the totally green holiday. The increasing focus on natural ‘green’ products and eco-tourism experiences is creating new opportunities in leisure and recreational activity. Mobile technology is becoming the information trend for many, especially the younger generation wishing to gain instant access to data as part of their decision making process.

The effectiveness of Waterways Ireland’s marketing campaign is making an impact from a combined €3 million budget (in association with other associated organisations) which is spent on research, website, sponsored events, activities, publications, exhibitions and merchandise. It is with the number of website hits that Waterways Ireland can evaluate its penetration into the leisure market. From an average 700,000 hits per month in 2007, to over 1.5 million per month in 2010, the figures speak for themselves.

Looking ahead, Waterways Ireland will continue to develop and plan to implement six keyy marketing mark ma rket rk etin et ing in g programmes such as reinforcing reinfo orccin ing g brand awareness and commercialisation programmes. comm mm m mer erc Starting from scratch an awareness Product ness P Pr od odu du development will package was created, starting see ng se ee their Waterway stopwith a new corporate off facilities open up to Among the many publications produced by identity and promotional a broader market such packages and materials. as the motorhome/ Waterways Ireland is one dedicated to ‘Bringing your Collaborations with other campervan sector. boat to Ireland’. bodies were established, Promotion of waterway and in association with Failte cruising as part of their This small A5 sized leaflet provides the basics of what’s Ireland, research provided holiday travel package required such as transport issues, licence and data on the changing trends to this fraternity is to dimension regulations and an explanation of in relation to recreation and d be considered following the various services available along the tourism. suggestion by Caravan a su waterway. magazine.

Cruise Ireland I Considerable growth has as been generated in the short break market while

Bringing over your boat to Ireland

46 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Waterways

A Taste of Waterways Ireland!

C

oothall, County Leitrim was my late uncle’s favourite stop-off point on his many and regular trips along the Shannon Navigation. It is good to see that the village, which still has the charm from four decades ago, features strongly in Georgina Campbell’s A Taste of the Waterways book produced in association with Waterways Ireland.

The 2010 edition which has the subtitle ‘Favourite places to eat and drink’ contains almost 100 independently assessed restaurants and hostelries along the Barrow Navigation, the Erne System, the Grand and Royal Canals, Lower Bann and Shannon-Erne Waterways and Shannon Navigation.

canal route with telephone numbers to reserve a booking in advance (which is advisable) there is a section called ‘Dining on Board’. Here you will find three varied but simple dishes to prepare that serves 4-6 people such as Smoked Salmon, Tagliatelle with Parmesan Cheese, Irish Stew and Artisan Sausage and Potato Salad.

Some locations on Lough Neagh are also included. What this 68 page soft-back does “is inform and introduce new visitors to a side of Ireland that is still unknown to many”, according to Georgina. While each venue is described along the river, lake or

The A-Z index also provides instant information on locations and page numbers. Award-winners from the listed venues over the past two years include The Oarsman (Carrick-On-Shannon), Café Merlot (Enniskillen) are well worth a visit.

No excuses! Enjoy!

New Workboat/Tug Enters Waterways Ireland Fleet

I

nishfendra, a 11.2m long, 3.8m beam multi-purpose workboat/ tug has recently been launched on the Shannon Erne Waterway at Ballyconnell. Specially designed for operation on inland waterways, the Inishfendra has a shallow draught, a new design of wheelhouse and a new ballast tank system.

Designed as a multi-purpose workboat/ tug, the Inishfendra is equipped with a 185hp Perkins M 185 main engine and Quick-shift Twin Disc gearbox,13 kVA Cummins Generator, Guerra deck crane and man access basket, hydraulic bow thruster and a suite of electronic equipment including chartplotter, radar and radio equipment.

Environmentally friendly sealed tube coolers are used on both the main engine and generator.

The substantial tube cooler supplied by Klima for the main engine is designed to enable the boat to operate at maximum power when travelling against the strong winter flows encountered on the waterways.

The Inishfendra built by Mooney Boats of Killybegs, is a further addition to a fleet of more than 60 boats owned and Text: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

operated by Waterways Ireland staff in the management and maintenance of the waterways under its remit. The name Inishfendra comes from an island

located near where the Erne System and the Shannon Erne Waterway meet.

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

47

Review 3

Holiday World Show Belfast Kick-Starts 2012 Season

T

he Holiday World Show at the King’s Hall in Belfast, followed by its sister event a week later in Dublin, is the traditional holiday season opener every January. The 2012

edition once again attracted large crowds, and a strong turnout of exhibitors. Indeed unlike the Dublin event, most - though not all - of the Northern Irish dealers took stands at the Belfast show, where

they exhibited the latest products on offer to customers for the forthcoming season. Caravan Cruise Ireland's Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle and Gerry Lane were there.

Donaghey Motorhomes Letterkenny based Donaghey Motorhomes returned to Belfast after a few year’s absence with a selection of Swift and Hymer motorhomes on display, including this Swift Bolero 712 SB (left) and Hymer B544 (right).

Leisure Technical Solutions The specialists in every kind of accessory for the mobile leisure sector, one of the interesting products on Leisure Technical Solution’s stand was this Ventura Snooper (right) - a satnav specially programmed for motorhome and caravan users. Simon Burke (left) was demonstrating it.

Hagan Motorhomes Ballyclare, County Antrim based Hagan Leisure Group showcased one of the first new Bailey Approach motorhomes (left) to arrive in Ireland, as well as a selection of Autotrail models.

LPC

Bentley Motorhomes

From Bangor, County Down, LPC Caravans had this latest generation of the affordable Sprite caravan on display.

Bentley Motorhomes’ reputation for quality vehicles continues to grow rapidly. Richard Bentley from the Yorkshire based firm was on the Cyril Johnston stand exhibiting this Cadwell model from the Signature range.

48 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Review 3 Cyril Johnston Cyril Johnston from Carryduff Belfast had an extensive stand with a selection of Burstner, Chausson, Elddis and Bentley models on display, among them a Burstner JT 700 model (right) and Chausson Flash 22.

Saville Motorhomes From Hillsborough, County Down, Saville Motorhomes are dealers for Autotrail, AutoSleepers, Bassacarr, Swift Escape, Tribute and Dethleffs Sunlight motorhomes. Pictured are a Tribute model (left) on a Ford Transit chassis, and an Auto-Sleeper Broadway on a Peugeot chassis.

Abbey Caravans Abbey Caravans of New townabby, Count y Antrim offer new and used caravans from brands such as CI, Bessacarr, Adria, Sprite and Sterling. At the show they had this Adria Altea 542 DT (right) and Sonic 1700 SC from the company’s motorhome range.

Downshire Caravans Banbridge, Co. Down based Downshire Caravans showed off a selection of Elddis caravans including these AvantĂŠ 566 (right) and Explore models.

Leisure Batteries Ireland Leisure Batteries Ireland is the sole agent for Elecsol Batteries, the award winning high quality deep cycle batteries. Philip Gordon was on stand to meet visitors.

Carrick Craft Carrick Craft, the specialists for boating holidays in Ireland have recently opened a new base in Coleraine.

Pictured are Colin Bullock, Wendy Newell and Joycelyn Hanna.

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

49

Review 4

Holiday World 2012– RDS Simmonscourt Pavillion, Dublin illed as ‘Ireland’s Biggest Caravan and Motorhome Show’ the 2012 Holiday World Show in the RDS Simmonscourt turned out to be a BIG …. disappointment. There were a distinct lack of exhibitors in this section of the show,

B

which was located at the back of the Pavilion Hall. In previous years the side hall was used to great effect as it was filled with caravans, motorhomes and mobile homes along with some accessory providers. On the events floor plan, 36 exhibitors were listed,

however less than a third were present. Of those that did go to the trouble and expense of displaying their wares, they reported that business was more than satisfactory.

Caravan Cruise Ireland was there to meet and greet.

Frank Keane Holdings A recent Volkswagen Car & Commercial Dealer appointment in Dublin was the sole car exhibitor at the Holiday World Show.

Ferrari F1 Simulator Show visitors had the chance to test their driving skills at high speed in the full size Ferrari F1 Simulator, which is available to hire.

McWilliam Park Hotel David Glynn, Sales & Marketing Manager, McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris was joined by Lisa from Gulliver Ireland for this picture.

Irish Water Safety Marcus Fleming manned the stand on behalf of the Galway based National Association.

Road Safety Authority Taking up a large section of the rear of the Simmons court was the Road Safety Authority demonstration trailer with new Mercedes-Benz Actros Safety truck alongside.

Waterways Ireland Marcus, Alan and Steve represented Carrick-on-Shannon’s headquarters Waterways Ireland, through its Smart Card, Campervans can pre-book and use their cruise dock facilities.

Cookstown Caravans/LPC Caravans Lunar, Sprite and Sterling touring caravans were showcased by Cookstown/LPC.

Downshire Caravans Likewise, Downshire Caravans had examples from Elddis touring Caravans and numerous awning product providers.

Carroll & McAuley This Ford Transit Globecar Trendscourt RD campervan conversion displayed is popular with newcomers to the sector as well as ‘empty nester couples’.

50 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Review 4

Les Castels Domaine de la Breche is one region in France that was promoted at both the Belfast and Dublin Holiday World Show, with pleasant representatives on stand!

Caravan Club (Ireland) Derek Jordon, Breda Dunne and Christy Dunne (P.R.O.) of the Caravan Club Ireland.

Celtic Horizon Tours Dublin based company that specialises in motorbike tours at home and abroad enjoyed brisk business throughout both days of the show.

Spiddal Mobile Homes Heading to Connemara? Well, step off first and stay at Spiddal Mobile Home and Caravan Park. Members of the Cooney clan will be there to welcome you and yours.

Uisce Clodagh Ni Bhric provided information on the gaelic speaking adventure centre located at the beautiful Ely Bay in Belmullet, County Mayo.

Kenneally's Caravans The Kenneally family run business specialises in (Willerby) Mobile homes and scenic parks around Munster, and are loyal supporters of Holiday World.

O’Brien Finlay Trevor Cassidy and Chandy Alexander quoted insurance premiums for caravans and motorhomes on the spot.

Irish Caravan and Camping Council Gillian Darcy and Niamh Darcy gave up their time to look after enquires on the IC2CC stand.

Cara Motorhomes Running two similar type businesses in Ireland and the UK is all in a days work for owner John Lenihan surrounded by Michael and Lilly Kingston.

Smith Leisure Among the Mobile Home exhibitors was Smith Leisure, Newtown Mount Kennedy, County Wicklow.

Aran Ferries Now that there is only one ferry service provider to and from the Aran Islands, Sally O’ Brien is at the helm.

Carrick Craft Cruising on the Shannon and beyond is part ‘n’ parcel of what Carrick Craft does, says Colin Bullock, Operations Manager.

Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

51

Classifieds

Adare

Camping & Caravan Park Adare, Co. Limerick Prop: Hugh & Marie Doherty Tel: 061 395376 / 087 2791525

email: dohertycampingadare@eircom.net

www.adarecamping.com

OPEN:: 1st Apr - 30th Sept Pre-book Oct - Mar

Caravan & Tents for hire.

No. of pitches: 28 Area: 2 Hectares o o GPS N52.5386 W8.79277

Buckleys Caravans Mallow ONE STOP SHOP

Munsters leading Accessory Store • Accessories • Awnings • Spares Full range of caravan & motorhome accessories plus we offer an excellent spare parts service.

Mail order available.

Open: Tue - Sat 10 - 5 (excl lunch) Late opening Wed til 8pm (Summer time only)

Tel: 022 22157 Fax: 022 43364 Email: info@buckleyscaravans.ie Web: www.buckleyscaravans.ie

BELLEEK PARK

CARAVAN AND CAMPING BALLINA, CO. MAYO.

Carra

Caravan & Camping Park Belcarra, Castlebar, Co.Mayo.

• Secluded village campsite.

• Supermarket, Pubs, Craft Butcher, HairDresser, Motor Repairs & Riverside Walks.

• Trad. sessions “Flukies” Fridays. Bring an instrument!

• Castlebar (8km) • Campervans €14.

• GPS 53o47’59” N 9o12’58” W

Tel: +353 (0) 94 9032054 Web: www.horsedrawncaravan.com

Carrowkeel Camping & Caravan Park Ballyvary Castlebar Co. Mayo

www.carrowkeelpark.ie mail@carrowkeelpark.ie Tel: 094-9031 264

4 Star Award Winning Touring Park.

Apartments and Mobile Homes for rent.

Tel. 096 71533 e-mail: lenahan@belleekpark.com www.belleekpark.com

Glengarriff

For a relaxing holiday in the heart of Co. Mayo.

Ideally located for touring, walking, cycling & fishing Clubhouse with regular music sessions (in high season)

Nagles Doolin

Caravan Park

Camping Camp Ca mpin mp ingg & Caravan in Cara Ca rava ra van va n Park, Park Pa rk,, Doolin, rk Doool D ool olin, in, Co. in Co. Clare Co Clar Cl aree ar

Castletownbare Road, Glengarriff, Co. Cork.

Tel: 087 7464058 / 027 63154 e-mail: glengarriffccp@gmail.com

Tel: 065 7074458 Email: ken@doolincamping.com Web: www.doolincamping.com

The ideal base for touring West Cork and Kerry. If offers a wealth of outdoor pursuits which take full advantage of the surrounding mountains, forests and magnificent harbour. We also have our on-site bar where you can enjoy regular music and continous craic.

Open: March to September

OPEN: 17 March - 31 October

The perfect location for that get away break in the west....

Nore Valley Park

Sir Rogers

For fun filled family holidays

Caravan & Camping Park Banna, Ardfert, Co. Kerry

EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES ON OUR WEBSITE www.norevalleypark.com

ON PRESENTATION OF THIS COUPON* • 10% discount if you introduce a friend • 15% discount for new customers *(Excluding Bank Holiday weekends)

Things to do & see...

• Within 30 min. drive to Tralee, Ballybunnion, Killarney & Killorglin • Fully equipped 5.6 acre park • Within 200m; blue-flag Banna sandy beach, surf school, pub, leisure centre, restaurant & shop (high season) • Nearby; Aquadome, Historical sites, Golf clubs, Pitch & Putt, Siamsa Tire National Folk Theatre, Dingle Ocean World & Crag Caves.

tel: 066 7134730 email: info@sirrogers.com web: www.sirrogers.com

Book Reviews The story of Sprite Caravans Veloce Publishing www.velocebooks.com ISBN 978-1-845843-58-8 £14.99

S

urprisingly, this is the first book to trace the history of Sprite Caravans.

This 96 page softback by Andrew Jenkinson describes the story of how Sam Alper took up the cause to provide caravanners with affordable holiday vehicles in a similar fashion to what Volkswagen and Ford achieved with the Beetle and Model – through mass production. From the Streamlite range in the late ‘40s to the 2012 Sprite Musketeer, a lot of milestones have been achieved and bridges crossed. According to Peter Smith, Chairman, Swift Group (Sprite’s owners), “the growing demand for more energy-efficent cars, combined with increasing popularity of holidaying at

Motor Caravan Manual Haynes Publishing ISBN 978-0-85733-124-3 £21.99 plus p&p.

W

ith the latest generations of Motorhomes and Campervans getting more technical it’s good to see a book that covers the A-Z of all that is required to know today. It is also good to know that the author is vastly experienced. John Wickersham is a regular contributor to Caravan and Motorhome publications and has written 14 books on caravanning and home DIY. He is also a qualified service engineer.

This is the third edition of this manual which brings existing and potential owners of mobile leisure vehicles up to speed with the latest developments such as refillable gas tanks, solar PV panels, and the latest in leisure batteries. Although the new B Class Peugeot Boxer Bailey adorns the cover, motorhomes of all shapes, sizes

home, spells good times ahead of Sprite.”

Sam Alper was a most creative gentleman, designing not only caravans, but also mobile homes, mobile shops, display trailers and golf buggies. Newmarket, the location made famous through horse racing, was where his new creations were brought into reality. In the 60’s the company really expanded with many exports, and a raft of mergers and acquisitions. By 1969, production had reached 20,000 units annually, manufactured by a 1000 strong workforce.

The following decade though brought financial difficulty for the firm. New holding company Caravan International went bust, and following several takeovers and buyers, the company found consolidation under the Swift Group. 2008 marked the 60th anniversary of the UK’s best known,

value for money range of caravans. Sam Alper’s ideals continue to this day as this book describes. Anyone that has happy memories of caravanning in a Sprite will want this book as a keepsake and hand it down to the next generation.

and ages come under the spotlight in this 208 page hardback. Users are kept abreast of the ever changing laws and regulations coming in from Brussels. To demonstrate the hands-on-approach to this guide, John embanked on converting a pre-owned Volkswagen Transporter T5 van into a campervan, with the step by step process detailed here in words and pictures.

Chapter by chapter the numerous aspects to owning and running a motorhome are covered, from the various types to advice on buying, information on body structures, chassis and drive train to interior fittings, and useful information on electrical and gas systems, water and refrigeration and accessories.

There is so much to learn here but as all the information is relayed in simple English enhanced by photographs, it makes reading and understanding easy.

worthiness testing, this is a book that all campervan operators should have to maximize their working knowledge of their vehicle.

With Irish motorhome owners now having to present their vehicles for road

Competition…..Reading Matters…..Competition Win a copy of Little Book of Caravans in association with G2 entertainment and Caravan Cruise Ireland. (See page 54 for a review of this book). To be in with a chance to win one of three editions of Little Book of Caravans, send on your name, address and mobile telephone number by email to rob@fleet.ie Text: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

www.caravancruise.ie | SPRING 2012

53

Competition

To be in with a chance to win one of three editions of Little Book of Caravans, send on your name, address and mobile telephone number by email to rob@fleet.ie.

Winners will be notified by email.

Little Book of Caravans ISBN 978-1-907803-42-0 G2 Entertainment – wwwG2ent.co.uk

S

teve Lanham’s chronicle on the origins of what we now enjoy as the ‘caravan’ clearly demonstrates that since the drawn (Living) carriage separated from the horse, little has change in terms of the whole concept involved.

While modern day caravans are more aerodynamic, luxurious and practical and are made differently, their basic usage remains the same – providing the opportunity to tour and enjoy life on the road. The author has selected beautiful historical and modern day photographs of original and restored ‘vans’ dating back to pre 1900s. While crediting Dr. Will Gordon Stables as the inaugural promoter of the leisure theme of the carriages it was when J. Harris Stone formed The Caravan Club of Great Britain and Ireland that the sector really took off.

During World War I, these vehicles were used as emergency back-up linking field hospitals with First Aid posts.

Between wars the industry got adventurous in every way as park

development improved and moved in tandem with the progression in design and manufacturing techniques. British manufacturers enjoyed significant growth in sales both nationally and internationally.

Brand names then, such as Sprite, Sterling, Bailey and Swift are still relevant now and remain among the market leaders.

location at the filming of Lawrence of Arabia in London, to speed tests such as the Caravan Racing Championships.

As with the motor industry, concepts or prototypes play a role, notably the expandable and collapsible types which subsequently made their way into production.

Steve also reminisces on the memorable events and happenings such as Willerby Touring Vans used on

From hard cover to cover these 125 pages are a great read. This is a book that should be on board every enthusiast’s caravan.

54 CARAVAN CRUISE IRELAND | SPRING 2012

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - jarlath@fleet.ie

www.volkswagenvans.ie

8S WR WKH ODNHV GRZQ WR WKH EHDFK RU RYHU WKH KLOOV DQG IDU DZD\" &KHFN RXW WKH &DOLIRUQLD FDPSHU YDQ DW \RXU ORFDO DXWKRULVHG 9RONVZDJHQ GHDOHUVKLS

7KH &DOLIRUQLD $UH \RX D FDPSHU IDQ"

GET YOUR NEW MOTORHOME FROM US. As a family owned and run business we greatly appreciate our customers both old and new. It will be our 10th anniversary in 2012 and we have become the largest motorhome dealer in Ireland, due to great aftersales service and great prices.

We have over 100 motorhomes in stock at any time. We are the only Hymer fully accredited franchise in Ireland. We are agents for Swift, also franchise holders for Dethleffs, TEC and Carado. We use motorhomes ourselves every weekend as we love the lifestyle. Come talk to the experts.

Fully trained staff in our 12 bay workshop. All accessories available.

Visit our online parts shop at www.partsformotorhomes.com

GREAT SAVINGS ON FAMILY MOTORHOMES

Our motorhomes are transported not driven!

OPENING HOURS:

• Mon-Fri 8.30 am to 5.30pm • Sat 10am to 5pm • Open most bank holidays

www.irishmotorhomes.com

Call: 00353 (0) 749 11 11 11 Email: info@irishmotorhomes.com

The place where everyone matters