The four-berth Globetrotter immediately impresses.
A single-axle, 18-foot (5.44m) midrange model, the Globetrotter sums up what changes manufacturer Swift has made to the range.
Standard features include high security entrance locks; shock absorbers; higher tyre ratings; plastic-lined shower walls; domestic-style washroom door and fittings; and an extra mains socket and TV point.
And the list goes on as many previous optional extras – such as alloy wheels and new walk-in showers for end washroom models – become standard.
These additions are proof that Swift has listened to its customers and also serve to give the caravan a modern feel.
Outside, the most notable change to the Globetrotter is its sculpted, full-height rear panel with recessed lighting.
Beneath the skin, it’s now got shock absorbers to offer a more stable towing experience, and an AKS 3004 stabiliser for good measure.
Ace Jubilee Globetrotter Interior
Climb aboard and you’ll find even more changes – the traditional double dinette layout is familiar but nice touches give it a new sheen.
The tabletop of the drawer unit is on rails, folding out to double its area; there’s a stand-alone table stowed in one of the centre cupboards if that’s not enough.
Storage under the drawer unit and under the dinette is ample for bedding, though the right-hand base also houses the consumer unit and heater controls.
The bed was easy to make up using the pull-out slats under the drawer unit. They transform into a large double bed, 6ft 10in by 5ft 11in.
The centre section of the caravan has the kitchen and heater on the left, cupboards and the second dinette opposite.
The kitchen offers ample work surface with a mains socket, a double drawer unit under it, and positioned over the Truma Ultraheat system, then a sink and cooker further towards the door with the Thetford fridge between. There’s a narrow, racked cupboard taking up the slack.
The cooker consists of four-burner hob, oven and grill and a pan store in the base. Directly over it is a 20-litre, 800-Watt unit microwave – ample for most families.
The large storage cupboard opposite the heater is the home of the tables, one of which fits the centre dinette.
Now to the washroom. From the moment you open the door you’re in for a treat.
It’s large with a walk-in shower to the right, the basin, loo and a vast wardrobe on the left. The shower is indistinguishable from one you’d see in a showroom, with curved screen and drying area.
The bathroom is bright, airy and well thought through.
Verdict:
The Globetrotter offers a good compromise of living and sleeping space, not least because the beds are spacious and easy to assemble. It’s an 18-footer that feels like a 20-footer.
Factfile
Price: £12,895
Berths: 4
MRO: 1250kg
MTPLM: 1460kg
Insurance cost: £310*
*Caravan insurance quotes are based on a caravan owner over 30 years of age, caravanning for over 3 years whilst insured and claim free, and a member of a caravanning club. Caravans fitted with wheel clamp, hitchlock and a basic door alarm. Caravans stored at HX3 0AW behind locked gates. Sum insured = £13,895 (£1000 equipment cover). Prices quoted include a £10 online discount and Insurance Premium Tax at 5% and are correct as of 10/07/2008
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