The Buccaneer brand has earned a reputation as one of the most luxurious tourers on the market and, here, we look at the Buccaneer Corsair.

Originally a manufacturer of luxury, handbill caravans based near York, Buccaneer first came about in 1969.

By 1998, the Buccaneer name had been purchased by Elddis, who moved the company to its Consett, County Durham, plant. Since then, the brand consolidated its position in the luxury market sector.

In 2012, Buccaneer tourers underwent a major revamp, which included adding even more spec and a stylish update for the exterior.

New back panel added – check area for cracking

With elegant grey sides and a new-look interior, the model had large overhead lockers and luxury soft furnishings.

With four layouts in the range for the 2012 season, including the Corsair, the new Buccaneers were classed as being lighter than predecessors, although all of the line-up need hefty tow vehicles.

Model history

Storage is maximised in the lounge, with four drawers in central chest

The 2012 Corsair came with GRP sides and was the only single-axle model included in this four-caravan line-up.

First launched for the 2011 season and carried through to 2013, the Corsair featured a spacious front lounge with a side kitchen and double bed, plus a full-width end washroom.

The other three models in the range were twin-axles, all with fixed beds. The 2012 line-up also had a new body shell, with a more angular profile, while the silver exterior changed to GRP.

With a typical side0bed, end-washroom layout, this was the only single-axle Buccaneer in 2012

The back panel was updated, and these upmarket tourers also gained privacy windows.

Cabinetwork was improved, while lighting was upgraded to LEDs and the quality of the soft furnishings was also raised.

A central chest of drawers was included in the lounge, and an Avtex TV came as standard.

So do the big Bucs still prove a great buy eight years on? Our example was priced at £15,166 – the original cost would have been just over £23,000!

Price checker

We found several examples of 2012 Corsairs, ranging from our price (£15,166) to £15,795.

As always, it pays to do your research, but prices appear to be holding firm – the Buccaneer badge seems to be a real status symbol for caravaners! As for the rest, you can expect to pay:

  • Clipper £12,995 – £15,995
  • Caravel £14,995 – £16,495
  • Schooner £16,495 – £16,995

Verdict

Inspect furniture edging in kitchen; over the years, it can peel away. Smart hob and sink are like new!

This big, luxurious tourer is a real head-turner; people who know caravans will know you’re somebody who wants the best out of your touring experience!

With loads of kit and plenty fo space, this heavyweight really is a home from home.

Buccaneers are known for quality, but as always, do the checks, as these are essential to make sure you get the best example of this luxury brand.

Ideal for couples or families, the Corsair is one to watch out for – if you have the car to tow it, and the cash to buy it!

Alternatives

You could try… Sterling Elite (above) or Bailey Unicorn

You could also look at the Sterling Elite from 2012 – the Searcher has the same layout as the Corsair. It’s well equipped but weights slightly more than the Corsair. It does have a more modern interior, though. Look at paying £14,995 from a dealership.

Or how about a 2015 Bailey Unicorn Valencia? Again, the layout is the same and the spec is good, but this one is lighter and newer; we found one priced at £15,895.

Another model from the manufacturer to consider is the Buccaneer Schooner – it might need a big towing vehicle, but it makes a wonderful tourer.

Tech specs

  • Price (of model viewed) £15,166
  • Berths 4
  • MiRO 1548kg
  • Payload 252kg
  • MTPLM 1800kg
  • Internal length 5.28m
  • Width 2.30m
  • Seen at Glossop Caravans

Check for:

  • Small cracks in back panel
  • Damage to tyres
  • Cracking in front panels
  • Discolouration by roof vent
  • Supportive upholstery
  • Condition of mattresses
  • Worn Winterhoff hitch stabiliser friction pads
  • Cracked gas locker lid
  • TV still being included

If you liked this… READ THESE:

Used Van Buyer: Couples’ Vans

Used Van Buyer: Fixed Beds

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