Space, comfort and style in a new model for 2016
The Willerby Vacation was one of many models recently introduced and we first looked at it during this year’s Lawns show near Hull.
A static, the exterior is pretty much the standard shape, being rectangular with a pitched roof sitting on a steel chassis with a protective coating, removable towbar for on-site positioning and the usual wheels.
Aluminium clad, the Willerby Vacation has several colour options of vinyl cladding and that steel chassis can be galvanised on request – a sensible option in our view. The roof is covered in the usual steel pantiles and a nice GRP moulded bargeboard sets off each of the eaves and contrasts with the usual array of guttering and down spouts (all these are in black uPVC). Walls and floors are insulated as is the underfloor area and all pipework is fully lagged to protect against frost.
Windows are also in uPVC and feature a large double at the front end of the caravan, smaller side windows and the main glazed access door to the side. Overall there is nothing particularly remarkable about the look of the Vacation as befits its status as a classically shaped static.
Our review model was the largest of three being 35ft x 12ft with three bedrooms. As you enter the Willerby Vacation, you are struck by the nicely designed layout in the lounge. To your immediate left is a set of wrap-around seating in cream buttoned upholstery, the first part of which hides an occasional sofa bed. There is the usual storage under the seats and nicely padded backrests give the impression of luxury. Décor is tasteful; cream seats, light walls and contrasting purple curtains and scatter cushions. The floor of the lounge has a fitted carpet in light beige which is finished at an angle – delineating the lounge from the kitchen.
The opposite corner has another, smaller wrap-around seat unit which is in fact the dining area and has a table on a single steel leg and two free standing, circular padded stools. Next to this is a low TV unit with shelves and a gas fire set into a feature chimney breast which disguises the flue. Power sockets, aerial connection and light switches are all positioned in convenient places around the lounge. The high, vaulted roof gives a nice, spacious feel and the big windows allow lots of natural light to flood in.
The kitchen is a galley type, split across the caravan with a wide central aisle. On the ‘cooking’ side, there’s a four-burner gas hob with oven and grill fitted into a small work space with counter top either side. Wide, open shelves are provided and there’s an extractor hood with twin shelves above.
The opposite side features a substantial kitchen unit with modern, handle-free cupboards and drawer in cream, a stainless steel sink with mixer tap and an array of wall mounted storage cupboards over. There’s also a space for a microwave on the left of the unit. Although the kitchen is fairly basic, you’d be able to rustle up meals for up to six people without much fuss.
The shower room on the Vacation is behind the cooking side of the kitchen and is accessed via a door in the main corridor. It has a shower enclosure with thermostatically controlled shower, a wash basin mounted on a vanity unit and laminate style flooring. A separate toilet is fitted here as standard on the 3 bed model.
The three bedrooms are fitted into the rear end of the caravan and comprise two twin rooms and a main double. One of the twins is very small with only just enough room to walk between the beds; not a problem for small children. Both twin rooms feature beds and a central bedside table with ‘floating’ shelves for odds and ends. There is also storage under the beds.
The double bedroom has a large bed with storage under, full height wardrobes, shelves and a small en-suite with toilet and wash basin. Décor is light and fresh with floral pattern curtains and white bedding. This room has a nice amount of space to the side of the bed, making it feel less cramped.
Verdict
The aptly named Vacation is ideal for those wanting a good, well-designed and great value static caravan. The fresh colour scheme and light, bright interior is a bonus and there are plenty of optional extras to choose from.
Plus Points
Large open plan lounge with plenty of seating.
Practical galley style kitchen
Lots of storage in bedrooms
Minus Points
Third bedroom is a little on the small size.
In-a-Nutshell
The Willerby Vacation is a good value static caravan with plenty of room for the whole family.
FACT FILE
Size: 35ft x 12ft
Build Standard: EN 1647.
Berths: 6, in three bedrooms (two twin and one double).
Other Layouts Available: 29ft x 12ft, 2 bedroom; 35ft x 12, 2 bedroom.
Key Optional Extras: Exterior cladding – vinyl options; Environmental exterior and window frames; Gas central heating system with combi boiler; Integrated MP3 sound system; European Specification.
Ex works price: £21,664.18 inc VAT*
For more information email [email protected] or visit www.willerby.com
*Additional charges will be made by park operators, and/or distributors for transport, siting and annual maintenance. Please check the price carefully before you commit to purchase, as prices vary considerably dependent, amongst other factors, on the geographical location
Get a holiday home insurance quotation from Leisuredays by clicking here.
Is this a family van? A family of what, elves? The time when the double bed is up against the wall and not enough space to walk between the twin beds, also the living area is pathetic.
Hi David. We put your comment to Willerby Holiday Homes and here’s their response:
We’re sorry to hear that you feel the Vacation is a little too small to be classed as family van. This model is actually produced in three different sizes (29 x 12 2 bed, 35 x 12 2 bed and 35 x 12 3 bed), in accordance with our company policy of providing a wide range of holiday homes to suit every buyer and their varying space requirements and/or budgets. Any of our distributors will be happy to advise you on which of our models would be right for you in providing a little more space, but if you do see a family of elves in a Willerby Vacation, do let us know – we’d love a photo opportunity… ;o)
Looks cheap. I would rather buy a quality second hand van. The seating looks very flat and uncomfortable. Should be a two bedroom van who wants to sleep in a cupboard!
Overall you get what you pay for!
Very happy with the van which I bought this year. The only problem is in the kitchen area where there is an extractor hood but no extractor fan fitted. Silly to put one there in the first place without fitting a fan. I have looked all over to buy one but without success. The fan would not be able to go through the ceiling of the van, therefore would need one which uses a sheet to absorb the smell and moisture. Can you help?
Hi Heather, if you contact Willerby I’m sure they’d be happy to help: https://www.willerby.com/contact
Hi,I have a willerby Vacation 2013 static caravan and need the measurements of the sitting area to put a new carpet down ASAP please thank you.
Hi Mrs Freeland. You would need to contact Willerby direct: https://www.willerby.com/contact