Bailey Alicanto Grande Porto 2022

Bailey’s new second-generation Alicanto Grande range includes only two models, both with in-line island beds, the Lisbon, and the Porto. More layouts are promised later in 2022.

The Lisbon is the only new model in the range so far. But we think the changes Bailey has made to the continuing model, the twin-axle Porto, make it worth taking a look at, too.

Pitch and set-up

As in the Lisbon, one change Bailey is making to all its second-generation Alicanto Grandes, following customer demand, is to move the mains hook-up connection to the offside, where it is nicely lit by a service light.

That means you don’t need to worry about a cable trailing through any awning you might attach. You still get an exterior mains socket that would fall within an awning, and an external barbecue point out in the front nearside corner.

The alloys on this twin-axle are an inch narrower than the Lisbon’s and the corner steadies, as you would expect for a van with an MTPLM of 1847kg (147kg higher than that of the Lisbon) are all heavy duty. Like the Lisbon, a boot runs across the back of the van, with access on both sides, and with 6kg more payload than the Lisbon, you should be able to pack even more in here. An Avtex Wi-Fi system is included as a factory-fit on the roof.

Lounge

The central window, now 50% larger, lets in loads of light. The large table, once you have lifted it out from under the bed at the back (possibly with a helper to hold up the bed while you do) is big enough for at least four.

The settees, complete with headrests, are very comfortable. Our test model came with standard Portobello upholstery. If you have the means, we’d recommend the Latimer alternative. Not only is this Aquaclean fabric, its dark piping also adds a touch of class.

The lounge in this Bailey caravan is well-lit at night with LEDs and spotlights, the latter including USBs. There are a total of six USBs here, including one in a wireless charging pad by the door. Those, plus six mains sockets, should be ample for a family of four.

Another update is the colour-changing RGB ambient lighting. Bailey has kept this to floor level, where it gives an attractive effect; but we found the controls surprisingly easy to nudge – they are located close to the edge of the kitchen peninsula.

A set of speakers and a TV bracket and sockets by the door should make evening entertainment pleasant.

Kitchen

The kitchens in these two new caravans are broadly similar, with lots of well-lit workspace thanks to the ‘L’ shape. This is separated from the lounge by a plastic splashback, and is uninterrupted as you get a co-ordinated sink cover as well as Bailey’s wooden hob cover.

Two mains sockets are handily placed, and the dual-fuel four-burner hob sits above the separate oven and grill, while to the right is a microwave with a built-in plate. You also get a larger fridge, at 153 litres.

Washroom

This is where Bailey has really made use of the extra length in the Porto. While the nearside shower cubicle is pretty much the same as the Lisbon’s, on the offside the designers have extended the main washroom to make it one of the most impressive we’ve seen for many years. The large handbasin has a useful surround for storage, and a lit mirror. Within easy reach is a ladder radiator. Bailey still includes a clear window, but it is high up. The space in here is large enough to make this a dressing room.

Beds

As with the Lisbon, the bed at the rear is now five feet wide and wonderfully comfortable. There is a second set of speakers and TV sockets here, too. The front bed is where you can really see some improvement over the single-axle. The settees are 8cm longer, so should be able to sleep taller teens.

Storage

Keeping the shower the same size as that in the Lisbon means Bailey has enough space on the forward side of the partition door to include a full-size wardrobe. There is a large mirror opposite, so whoever sleeps in the forward section has no need to feel hard done by, especially with two large overhead lockers and some easily accessible underseat space.

As with the Lisbon, the two smaller wardrobes in the back bedrooms are curved to allow for the size of the bed. You also get two top-loading bedside tables and a huge area underneath the bed that spills out into the boot.

The ‘L’ shape of the kitchen allows for a column of drawers and a full cupboard. The overhead lockers include crockery racks, and there is a locker above the fridge. That very generous washroom has two large cupboards.

Verdict

It’s tricky to compare a twin-axle against a single-axle with the same layout, but the use Bailey has made of the extra length in the Porto really makes this van stand out. That fabulous washroom should feel just like home, and with proper storage up front, you won’t need to haggle for space with the kids.

• Thumbs up: Fantastic washroom, good clothes storage for both bed areas
• Thumbs down: Table storage could be improved

If you liked this… READ THESE:

Review: Bailey Alicanto Grande Lisbon

Review: Elddis Supreme 860

Best tow cars for 2022

If you’ve enjoyed reading this article, why not get the latest news, reviews and features delivered direct to your door or inbox every month. Take advantage of our brilliant Practical Caravan magazine SUBSCRIBERS’ OFFER and SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER for regular weekly updates on all things caravan related.