Buccaneer has retained the Schooner name for many years, stretching all the way back to 1982. The 2016 line-up saw four other models in the range, all four-berths with fixed beds.
Buccaneer is a name that many caravanners aspire to; the brand goes back over 54 years and was noted for handcrafted, superbly well-specified tourers.
It’s no surprise, then, that pre-owned models are snapped up pretty quickly then.
The Buccaneer line-up has always been limited to a few layouts, some of which didn’t find so much favour, but the Schooner has been a very popular choice. Over time, the range has become even more desirable for its longevity – for example, the used Buccaneer Schooner featured here was on for £24,995 in early summer, but when new, cost £31,395. They hold their value well.
The best used caravans should offer good spec and that’s certainly the case here. The huge spec list includes self-levelling, Alde heating and much more, and all in a truly luxurious interior.
Model history of the Buccaneer Schooner
The big Schooner is on a twin axle, and many owners use it for an opulent seasonal caravan pitch.
That year also witnessed the arrival of the Clipper, which had twin transverse fixed beds, but this layout proved less popular.
The Schooner, though, was very popular with customers, attracted by the large lounge, offside kitchen, side fixed bed and end washroom. By then, the models were all eight-footers.
The Schooner we took a look at was in lovely condition, but we did wonder whether the floor might have been repaired at some point – it felt slightly spongy underfoot.
The seating in the Schooner’s lounge is superbly upholstered, providing excellent comfort and plenty of support, ideal for relaxing in while enjoying some television (and check out our best caravan TV guide if you’re looking for one).
In the kitchen, you get a big fridge and separate freezer, with a microwave fitted just above, and there’s also a full oven and a high-quality dual-fuel hob.
Storage includes a wet locker, and outside, you get a gas BBQ point and mains socket. Other welcome features include the on-board water tank.
GRP sides and a BPW chassis (now part of Al-Ko), IDC (BPW’s equivalent to ATC), plus a Winterhoff hitch stabiliser are all really good to see.
With deep overhead lockers and a large rear washroom, the Schooner is a tourer brimming with comfort and specification.
What to check for in a 2016 Buccaneer Schooner
When you’re thinking of buying a used caravan, you should always carry out some checks. In the case of the Buccaneer Schooner, look out for:
- Leaks in underfloor heating
- Signs of damage or cracking in front and rear panels
- Evidence of water ingress
- Delamination in flooring
- Peeling wallboard tape
- Damp in washroom
- Auto steady system still functioning as it should
Price checker
We found several used Schooners from 2016, with prices ranging from £19,995 to £23,995. For the rest of the range, expect to pay:
- Cutter: £21,195-£22,499
- Clipper: £22,995-£23,595
- Caravel: £24,495-£24,995
- Cruiser: £24,499-£25,995
Alternative models to a 2016 Buccaneer Schooner
Check out a 2016 Coachman Laser, such as the twin-axle 640/4, with the same layout as the Buccaneer. The Laser is well equipped, but lacks auto corner steadies. We spotted one for £19,000 (private sale), or £21,995 at a dealer.
Otherwise, take a look at the stylish 2015 Swift Elegance 630, again with side fixed bed and end washroom, available for around £24,495 to £25,495.
Verdict
The Schooner was a top-notch model, with its walnut furniture finish. The underfloor heating and self-levelling steadies are bonuses, but make sure they have been properly serviced.
These are heavy caravans, so you’re into big 4×4 territory for towing, but they are luxurious.
If you’re looking for a pre-owned towing vehicle instead, check out our best used car for towing a caravan guide too, where we share our top picks.
Technical spec of the 2016 Buccaneer Schooner
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 1964kg
- MiRO: 1805kg
- Payload: 159kg
- Internal length: 6.39m
- Width: 2.45m
Or you could try…
- 2015 Elddis Avanté 576: this single-axle six-berth is ideal for touring with a growing family.
- 2022 Coachman Laser Xcel 875: luxurious and well put together, this 875 makes a great used choice.
- 2011 Sterling Europa 545: a comfortable interior and a good design makes the 545 an appealing choice.
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