Category Archives: News

Gulf Stream Coach Packs Full-Size Features into Its Shortest Class C Motorhome

NAPPANEE, Ind. — The Class C motorhome segment is experiencing increasing demand, specifically for small, easy-to-maneuver, family-oriented floorplans. Gulf Stream Coach, the nation’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer, is betting its new Conquest 6215LE is the exact blueprint the market is looking for.

Following a winter show season where the compact Class C drew heavy foot traffic and strong dealer orders, the multi-year DSI Quality Circle Award winner is ramping up production. The 6215LE hits a sweet spot of price and practicality by squeezing full-size amenities into a highly maneuverable RV.

Measuring just 21 feet, 6 inches long, the coach arrives on a Ford chassis. The engineering feat, according to Gulf Stream designers, was opening up the living space without abandoning the heavy-duty construction the 43-year-old company is known for.


“After listening to the needs of our core customers, the design and engineering team exceeded expectations, developing a full-featured, high-value, innovative, and unique small floorplan,” said Matthew Buckman, general manager of Gulf Stream’s motorized division. “Understanding consumer expectations, we engineered a spacious dry bath, not settling for a cramped wet bath like many of our competitors. We expanded the U-dinette and main sleeping area while enhancing both interior and exterior storage. Our design goal was functional differentiation. Based on dealer and consumer feedback, Gulf Stream Coach exceeded expectations.”


Buckman noted that the layout enhancements did not come at the expense of the brand’s core structural integrity.

“We accomplished all of this without compromising our ‘Cradle of Strength’ steel frame foundation or our laminated one-piece floors,” Buckman said. “It’s the same industry-leading construction and extensive list of standard features, just packaged more effectively.”


Gulf Stream President Phil Sarvari attributes the breakout success of the 6215LE to the company’s independent, family-operated roots, which allows the builder to pivot quickly to what consumers are actually asking for on the lot.

“For 43 years, our design philosophy has been anchored by functionality and unmatched value,” Sarvari said. “When dealers and retail customers walk through the 6215LE, they immediately recognize the quality. It proves you don’t have to be the biggest coach in the campground to offer the best experience. It is a small package that delivers massive quality, features, and an incredible price.”

Built for the Long Haul: Gulf Stream Coach Celebrates 43 Years Strong

Gulf Stream Coach is celebrating its 43rd anniversary this week, marking more than four decades in the RV industry as an independent, privately held family company.

Founded in 1983, the northern Indiana manufacturer has grown into a well-known builder of motorhomes and travel trailers recognized for delivering high-quality, high-value products. Today, Gulf Stream builds a wide range of motorhomes and travel trailers sold through a nationwide dealer network serving RV customers across North America. Company leaders say Gulf Stream’s independence allows it to remain responsive to dealers and customers—a philosophy captured in its guiding principle: We listen, we respond.

The anniversary also highlights more than four decades of RV manufacturing in northern Indiana, the center of the North American RV industry. Gulf Stream leaders say the company’s long-tenured workforce and dealer relationships have been key to sustaining that legacy.

As the company marks the milestone, Gulf Stream leadership emphasized the role its nationwide dealer network has played in the company’s growth.

“Our dealers have been essential to Gulf Stream’s success over the past four decades,” said Gulf Stream President Phil Sarvari. “They connect our manufacturing teams with the families who take our RVs on the road, and their support has helped build the Gulf Stream brand across North America.”

“Our focus has always been simple: build quality RVs and support dealers,” Sarvari added.

Company leaders also recognized the dedication of the manufacturing teams who build Gulf Stream products every day.

“Our employees on the production floor are the foundation of this company,” Sarvari said. “Their craftsmanship, pride in their work, and commitment to quality are what make Gulf Stream RVs something families can depend on.”

Throughout its history, Gulf Stream Coach has remained a privately held, debt-free manufacturer. Company leaders say that independence supports long-term relationships with dealer partners while allowing the company to respond quickly to market changes and dealer feedback.

“Dealers represent Gulf Stream Coach with professionalism and pride in their communities,” Sarvari said. “Their teams help customers create memorable travel experiences and lasting family traditions.”

As the company looks ahead, Gulf Stream reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its dealer network with reliable products, strong service, and continued focus on quality and value.

Gulf Stream Coach Earns RVDA DSI Recognition for its Motorized and Towable Lines

Nappanee, IN – Gulf Stream Coach has once again demonstrated its industry-leading commitment to excellence, earning the prestigious 2025 DSI Quality Circle Award from the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) for both its motorized and towable product divisions. This top industry honor, determined directly by RV dealer feedback nationwide, recognizes the Nappanee-based manufacturer for superior quality, reliability, sales and service support, and its unrivaled commitment to its dealer partners.

The coveted award underscores a year of dedicated focus on manufacturing quality and dealer support for the nation’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer. Gulf Stream Coach’s consistent recognition by the RVDA highlights the strong trust dealers place in its products and operational integrity.

“To be recognized by our dealer partners with the DSI Award is the highest honor we can achieve,” said Phil Sarvari, President of Gulf Stream Coach. “It’s a direct reflection of their trust and confidence in our products and our people. This award belongs to every member of the Gulf Stream Coach team who comes to work each day dedicated to building quality RVs that families can depend on.”

The DSI Quality Circle Award is based on confidential dealer surveys rating manufacturers on four core areas: Reliability/Quality, Parts, Warranty, and Sales. Gulf Stream Coach received high marks across these categories for an impressive range of its most popular brands

Among the Gulf Stream brands earning the DSI award are the popular Conquest Class C and BT Cruiser motorhome lines as well as several of our towable product lines.

“As the nation’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer, we have the freedom to be nimble and highly responsive to what our partners are telling us,” Sarvari continued. “We answer to Main Street, not Wall Street, which means dealer and customer feedback is the most valuable asset we have. We listen and we respond. Earning this award confirms that our approach of building true partnerships is making a difference where it matters most: on the dealer lots and in the campgrounds.”

Gulf Stream Coach debuts innovative Conquest Transit 4237 All-Wheel-Drive motorhome

Nappanee, IN – Gulf Stream Coach, America’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer, announced the debut of its innovative Conquest Transit 4237 All-Wheel-Drive motorhome, which received an overwhelmingly positive reception from dealers at the Elkhart RV Hall of Fame Open House Show in September.

The nimble, 24-foot Class C motorhome is built on the advanced Ford Transit chassis and powered by a 6-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine. Despite its compact size, it features an extra-large overhead bunk for spacious sleeping quarters.

The main attraction for dealers was the Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system. It enhances traction and stability on challenging surfaces like snow, mud, and gravel by automatically distributing power when slip is detected. This feature improves safety and allows owners to access more remote destinations. Drivers can also select various traction modes via the large in-dash touchscreen to optimize performance.

“The response from our dealer partners was phenomenal,” said Gulf Stream Coach President Phil Sarvari. “They immediately recognized the market demand for a smaller, versatile motorhome with the all-weather, all-terrain capability the Conquest Transit’s AWD system provides.”

The Conquest Transit 4237 AWD is positioned to appeal to RVers who value maneuverability, safety, and the freedom to explore beyond the pavement.

Visit gulfstreamcoach.com to find a dealer near you.

Gulf Stream Coach Sponsors Essential Leadership Development Course at 2024 RVDA Expo

Nappanee, IN – Gulf Stream Coach continues its long-standing commitment to industry excellence by sponsoring the Leadership Development Course at this year’s RVDA Expo, scheduled for November 11-15, 2024 at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The half-day course, “Giving Feedback,” will be led by renowned peacebuilding expert Sara Jeckovich and focuses on essential leadership skills for RV industry professionals.

“This rewarding endeavor for both Gulf Stream and RVDA has provided us the opportunity for the development of today’s and tomorrow’s leaders,” said Gulf Stream President Phil Sarvari. “We are very proud to be a part of this great industry.”

In addition to supporting professional development, Gulf Stream Coach is also making a commitment to supporting the industry by purchasing exhibit space at the show. This year they will showcase three exciting 2025 models at booth #319, including:

  • The all-new Conquest Transit 4237 Class C motorhome
  • A Laura Ashley-inspired Vintage Cruiser
  • The innovative 109OK Trail Boss teardrop travel trailer

“We are excited to provide dealers who did not have the opportunity at Open House to view some of our award-winning products and premiere new models,” said Sarvari.

Gulf Stream Coach Welcomes New Marketing Director

Nappanee, IN – Gulf Stream Coach, the industry’s leading family-owned manufacturer of recreational vehicles, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Overholt as its new marketing director.
“Gulf Stream Coach is the RV industry’s best-kept secret,” said Overholt. “I’m here to help spread the word.”

Overholt has over 15 years of experience in digital marketing, content strategy, and storytelling. He has worked in print and television news, the automotive accessory and RV industries, and spent over a decade as a journalism professor at Indiana University South Bend.

With Overholt’s appointment, Gulf Stream Coach aims to enhance its digital presence, drive more leads to dealers, and further solidify its position as a leader in the recreational vehicle industry.

“This company has a rich heritage in the RV industry, and I deeply respect the legacy they’ve built over the years,” said Overholt. “There’s an incredible story to tell here, and I’m excited to help more people discover what makes Gulf Stream Coach special.”

Phil Sarvari, president of Gulf Stream Coach, expressed his enthusiasm about the new addition to the team.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction,” said Sarvari.

”With Jason on board, we’re looking forward to amplifying our message and reaching a broader audience of RV enthusiasts who share our passion for adventure and quality craftsmanship.”

Laura Ashley & Gulf Stream Coach Unveil 10th Anniversary Vintage Cruiser

Nappanee, IN – Following the exciting announcement of their collaboration last month, Laura Ashley and Gulf Stream Coach Inc. are thrilled to report the overwhelmingly positive reception of their Laura Ashley-inspired Gulf Stream Vintage Cruiser at the recent Elkhart RV Hall of Fame Open House show. The unveiling marks a significant milestone in the celebration of the Vintage Cruiser’s 10th anniversary in 2025.

The debut of this unique travel trailer, which combines Laura Ashley’s renowned British design aesthetic with Gulf Stream’s iconic vintage camper, generated substantial buzz among the large crowd of attendees and industry professionals. The collaboration, representing Laura Ashley’s first foray into the RV market, has captured the imagination of dealers and RV enthusiasts, promising a fresh and stylish option for the growing number of design-conscious travelers.

Phil Sarvari, President and CEO of Gulf Stream Coach, expressed his delight at the response: “The reception exceeded our expectations. Dealers have shown tremendous interest in the Laura Ashley-inspired Vintage Cruiser, recognizing its unique appeal in the market. This enthusiasm reinforces our belief that this collaboration brings something truly special to the RV industry.”

Key features that garnered particular attention include:

•The exterior’s signature Laura Ashley plaid, drawn from the brand’s famed archives

•Interior textiles featuring the beloved Wisteria floral print in Newport Blue and Hyland Check print in Seaspray

•The harmonious blend of classic English charm with modern RV functionality

“The original concept was to appeal to the growing number of single female campers,” said Saylor Shea, project manager. “Over the last year we’ve received a lot of dealer feedback and – working closely with Laura Ashley’s design team – we’ve used that feedback to fine-tune the travel trailer design to appeal to an even broader segment of the RV market.”

Following the successful unveiling, Gulf Stream Coach reports a surge in dealer inquiries and strong pre-orders for the Laura Ashley-inspired Vintage Cruiser.

The Laura Ashley-inspired Gulf Stream Vintage Cruiser remains on track for its official market release on December 1st, 2024. Interested customers are encouraged to contact their local Gulf Stream dealers for pre-order information and to stay tuned for updates on lauraashleyusa.com and gulfstreamcoach.com.
To find your local Gulf Stream Coach dealer, visit gulfstreamcoach.com/dealer-locator.

ABOUT GULF STREAM COACH
Gulf Stream Coach, a family-owned RV manufacturer based in Nappanee, Indiana, is a well-established name in the recreational vehicle industry. Families have enjoyed traveling in comfort in Gulf Stream RVs since 1983. Their time-tested products – which have a reputation for standing up to years of use on the road – have earned Gulf Stream Coach multiple awards for outstanding craftsmanship and groundbreaking designs. Committed to enhancing the travel experience, Gulf Stream prioritizes customer satisfaction with spacious interiors, smart storage solutions, and cutting-edge amenities in every RV they produce. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, Gulf Stream Coach ensures that your home away from home exceeds expectations, allowing you to focus on the joys of the journey.

ABOUT LAURA ASHLEY
Established in London in 1953, Laura Ashley is one of the world’s best-loved fashion and home furnishings brands. The company’s iconic floral prints and designs epitomize the essence of quintessential British style. Laura Ashley offers a complete range of lifestyle products, including home furnishings, women’s fashion and sleepwear, children’s apparel, and hospitality experiences. In 2020, Gordon Brothers acquired the Laura Ashley brand, bringing their expertise to grow Laura Ashley’s product offerings and leading licensees across the world. For additional information, visit www.lauraashleyusa.com.

ABOUT GORDON BROTHERS
Since 1903, Gordon Brothers has maximized liquidity through realizable asset value by providing the people, expertise and capital to solve business challenges. Our firm’s integrated solutions across asset services, lending, financing and trading give clients the insights, strategies and time to optimize asset values throughout the business cycle. We work across the full spectrum of assets globally with deep expertise in retail, commercial, industrial, brands and real estate. We are headquartered in Boston with over 30 offices across five continents. For more information, visit www.gordonbrothers.com.

MEDIA CONTACT

Jason Overholt, Marketing Director

574-773-7761 Ext. 5178

joverholt@gulfstreamcoach.com



Gulf Stream Coach debuts latest in ultra-lightweight line of travel trailers

(August 1, 2024)Gulf Stream Coach, America’s largest family-owned RV manufacturer, is proud to announce the debut of the Trail Boss 140BH, the latest addition to its ultra-lightweight line of travel trailers. Designed for adventurers who crave freedom and flexibility, the Trail Boss 140BH offers a perfect blend of comfort, durability, and affordability.

The Trail Boss 140BH packs essential living amenities into a compact, incredibly light yet rugged package. This innovative travel trailer opens up new worlds of exploration for campers, providing a portable oasis of comfort, security, entertainment, and basic necessities.

“Our goal with the Trail Boss 140BH was to make it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to discover, explore, and escape,” said Phil Sarvari, president of Gulf Stream Coach. “We’ve created a trailer that is budget-friendly, without compromising on features or quality.”
The Trail Boss 140BH comes equipped with an impressive list of standard features, including:

• Solar power energy management system
• Off-grid refrigerator
• Gas heater and water heater
• Smooth front exterior design
• Outdoor shower
• Cooktop and microwave
• Air conditioning
• Extra ground clearance
• Bluetooth portable speaker
• Exterior storage
• Solid step entry

Designed to be easy to tow and park, the Trail Boss 140BH is perfect for a wide variety of camping situations. At just 2,510 pounds dry weight, its lightweight construction ensures that a wide variety of vehicles can safely tow this versatile trailer, making outdoor adventures more accessible than ever.
“Go anywhere, go anytime,” said Sarvari.

The Trail Boss 140BH is now available at Gulf Stream Coach dealerships nationwide.


Exterior view of SVT 18RBD

SVT Means ‘Special Value Trailers’ – Here’s Why!

Are you looking for a small, economical but well-built travel trailer as your first RV? You should consider the SVT line of travel trailers from Gulf Stream Coach. The SVT is ideal for first-time campers and casual RVers who want something a step above an “entry-level” economy trailer.

Start with unique, widely varied SVT floor plans.

Interior view of the SVT 21QBD, showing Dinette in slide, Queen Bed, Overhead Storage, and Kitchen Counter

Looking for bunks? Try the 18RBD. Like the flexibility of a Murphy bed? Consider the 21MBS (with a sofa slide) or a 21MBD (with a dinette slide). What about the quick and easy set-up of a non-slide trailer? Look at the 18RBD, 19FMB, or 22UDL. And if it’s a twin bed arrangement that suits you best, check out the 21TBD.
If you feel more comfortable with a slightly narrower trailer profile, the SVT line includes five floor plans that are just 7.5 ft. wide. That slightly smaller width improves your view to the rear, making backing, turning, and maneuvering easier and less stressful.

Include premium laminated-wall construction.

All SVT models use aluminum framed walls, with layers of gleaming exterior fiberglass, insulation, reinforcements, and structural panels. Wall components are coated with robotically-applied adhesives and vacuum-bonded into remarkably light, stiff panels.

Use Azdel synthetic substrate

This weight-saving fiber-based, made-in-USA panel separates the exterior world from the interior living space. Azdel provides excellent sound and temperature insulation, and can’t absorb water, so it won’t rot or mildew. It’s the ideal state-of-the-art structural panel – See the whole story here.

Keep the weight of the SVT ultra-low

With base weights ranging from 3,300 to 3,800 lbs., SVT models are easily towed with a family car, minivan, or smaller SUV. You could save tens of thousands of dollars by towing with your regular car instead of a pricey pickup or other large vehicle.

Make smart use of inside space for maximum livability.

All SVT floor plans feature full “dry baths,” and well-equipped kitchens. Other accommodations vary by floor plan, but all offer an ideal combination of living space and storage.

Include the right combination of luxuries and necessities

Instead of overloading SVTs with options, we include high-quality necessities and offer a wish-fulling list of options. Of course your SVT is “Tech-Ready” to add Wi-Fi, Cable & Satellite TV, a solar panel, and backup camera. Cabinets use solid wood stiles and wood doors. There are two 20-lb LP tanks up front, a seamless surround in the shower, a powerful LP gas furnace, and wiring for a roof-mounted.

With all the basics covered, you can also pick and choose the luxuries you can’t live without. Among the many choices: Blue Tooth home theater stereo, aluminum rims with radial tires, roof-mounted air conditioning, a premium foam mattress, and much, much more.

There’s more to the SVT story, of course.

We hope this brief intro convinces you that the SVT Series deserves to be on your travel trailer shopping list. Explore all the choices and options here on our site, or at a Gulf Stream Coach dealer near you.

image of toolkit

The Ultimate RVer’s Toolkit

Ever wonder what tools to bring when you and your RV head out to go camping?

… Just try asking a few veteran campers! You’ll hear many opinions about what makes up the ultimate RVer’s toolkit. Many camping weekends have been saved by a pocketknife or a fingernail file, but the list of tools quickly gets longer and more complex. That’s why we’ve polled some experts, including repair technicians at Gulf Stream Coach to create our own list of tools. (Click here for a printable version of the list)

Will our list solve every problem you might have on the road? Of course not! But it contains tools that will often save time, money, and aggravation. Consider it to be a list of suggestions, not requirements! Long before you’ve used every tool on our list, you’ll have created your own. And not long after that, you’ll be sharing your experience with others.

Without further ado, here’s OUR Ultimate RVer’s Toolkit:

  • Slip-Jointed Pliers – Handy for tightening almost anything you can’t get a wrench on. 
  • Multi-Tip Screwdriver – w/2 or more blade tips, Phillips head tips, torx or other tips
  • Claw Hammer – For traditional ‘pounding, leverage
  • Socket Wrench Set – Some sets include both English and Metric sizes – You might need both
  • Utility Knife – Standard, w/retracting blade, extra blades
  • Tape – Duct Tape, Electrical Tape, Velcro-style hook-and-loop patches  
  • Adhesives – Gorilla Glue or similar, Super Glue
  • Tire Pressure Gauge
  • Adjustable Voltmeter
  • Vise-Grips
  • Abrasives – Sand paper, metal file
  • Battery-Powered Drill w/charger, basic drill bits
  • Loose Parts:  Assorted Screws, Bolts, Nuts, & Washers, Wire Nuts, Zip Ties, Spare Bulbs, Automotive Fuses etc. 
  • Wood Putty
  • Bottle Jack w/Tire Wrench – to change tires, brace the frame, etc. 
  • Tape Measure
  • Hacksaw w/spare blades
  • LED Flashlight w/spare batteries  
  • 1 or 2 C-Clamps
  • Lubricants – WD 40, 3-in-1 oil, lock de-icer/lubricant

When possible and practical, it’s good to make use of the molded plastic cases that come with many tools – Keeps them organized, dry, and quiet.  On the other hand, when storage space is limited (as it often is in an RV) you may prefer to find a soft-sided toolbox.

Seems that no matter how good the list is, the only tool you NEED in an emergency is the one you DON’T HAVE.  There’s a limit to how much weight and space your tools should take up, though.  Chances are good too that campground neighbors and other RV’ers you run into can help with tools, parts, and advice.  

Do you have a ‘don’t leave home without it tool’ that didn’t make our list?  Add your suggestions in the Comments below!  And do you have a story about how a particular tool saved you on your travels? We’d love to hear it!