Category Archives: News

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!

New interior decor for Gulf Stream Coach motor homes

New Interior Decor Released for Gulf Stream Coach Motor Homes!

Gulf Stream Coach has announced a new generation of motor home interior decor building on a decades-long heritage of style. New furnishings, fabrics, cabinetry, flooring, and other decor elements are now reaching the Gulf Stream Coach motor home assembly plant. That means that Conquest Class C’s and BT Cruisers with the new interior decor are leaving us to reach our dealer across North America.

New Interior Decor – Bright, fresh, subtle, and stylish

Our famous “Day Coach,” the BT Cruiser 5210, showing off the new interior decor

In creating the new decor, the Gulf Stream Coach Interior Designer took cues from some of the most stylish interiors in today’s world. Her inspiration came from contemporary homes, private clubs, and luxury hotels. These interiors use uncluttered spaces and neutral colors as a backdrop for our fast-moving lives.

The browns and honey colors of the past have made way for cooler, more peaceful warm grey fabrics, olive-grey cabinetry and lightly veined near-white countertops. Subtle textures and patterns have replaced older, bolder prints, providing a bright, cheerful setting for casual activity. Living areas are perfect for colorful accents and accessories.

While good looks are essential, materials chosen for a motor home need to stand up to a life of outdoor adventures. That’s why Gulf Stream Coach uses fabrics and vinyls that resist stains and clean up with ease.

Our cabinets combine great looks and functionality by making use of all available storage space. Cabinetmakers combine precision tooling with hand craftsmanship to meet the weight, space, and cost limitations of the RV environment.

The new interior decor – Combining cool, calm colors, bright hues, and complimentary olive-grey cabinetry

There’s more to the Gulf Stream Coach Motor Home Story

As important as our new decor is, it’s just one reason why Gulf Stream Coach is the fastest-growing Class C brand in the industry. Another? Our exclusive “Cradle of Strength®” that uses extra steel to strengthen the standard chassis. And yet another: The fifteen most-requested luxury features that we include, but others sell as extra-cost options.

Like our new interior decor, Gulf Stream Coach motor homes stand above the competition, combining a decades-long commitment to quality, value, and innovation. Learn more at Gulf Stream Coach motor home dealer near you, and here, on our Facebook page.

A Class on “RV Classes” – What’s In A Name?

As soon as you start looking at RVs, you’ll encounter a new language filled with terms that mean little to the uninitiated. The “RV Classes” that are mentioned by manufacturers and dealers can be pretty confusing until you know what they mean. Here’s a quick rundown that will help:

The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) has defined several “Classes” of RVs. The official Classes clarify the kinds of products available for the government offices that regulate them.

A “Class A” RV . . .

  • Is a motor home that includes living space AND a driver’s compartment built by an RV manufacturer. Class A’s begin life as ‘bare-bones’ chassis with running gear, engine, steering wheel, and little else. Everything else is added by the RV maker. Class A motor homes are often the biggest and most luxurious RVs on the road, and have profiles similar to buses. Typical size: L: 26’ to 42’; W: 8’
The famous Gulf Stream Coach Friendship Class A, no longer in production, but still seen on roads across North America

A “Class B” RV . . .

  • Is a motor home based on a cargo van that uses the original driver’s compartment and metal body of the van. The RV maker adds all of the interior accommodations, and a raised roof to provide standing room inside. Class B motor homes are the most compact RVs on the road, and resemble service vans with high-top roofs added. Typical size: L: 16’ to 25’; W: 7’ to 7.5’

A “Class C” RV . . .

  • Is a motor home with a bare steel chassis and driving gear (like Class A’s), and the original driver’s compartment (like Class B’s). The RV maker adds everything behind the driver’s compartment. The result is a box-like space behind the cab with all walls, roof, floor, and interior accommodations added by the RV maker. Class C’s often have bunk space for children/guests above the cab. Typical Size: L: 21′ to 35′, W: 8′ to 8.5′
The Conquest Class C 6238 - An ideal choice for first-time motor home buyers
Class C’s (Like this Conquest 6238) are the most popular Class of motor home

RV manufacturers have created products that blur the lines between the official RV Classes. For example, you’ll find “Class B+” motor homes as well as other variations. In fact, one of the most popular products produced by Gulf Stream Coach is the BT Cruiser. It’s a down-sized luxury motor home that bridges the gap between Class B and Class C. The BT Cruiser offers the advantages of a smaller, lower profile than standard Class C’s, but more space and power than standard Class B’s.

The BT Cruiser, an industry innovation that “breaks” the Class rules

When it comes to towable RVs, here are two official RV Classes recognized by the RVIA.

A “Travel Trailer” . . .

  • Is an RV with a hitch mounted low on the frame so it can be towed by a pickup truck, SUV, or passenger car with a bumper- or frame-mounted receiver. RV manufacturers build the walls, floor, and roof of the trailer, as well as all of the accommodations inside. There are many of variations, sizes, and styles of travel trailers covered by this broad description. You can start here to see a wide range of our most popular travel trailer models. Typical size: L: 12’ to 38’; W: 7’ to 8’
The Innsbruck 276BH Travel Trailer from Gulf Stream Coach

A “Fifth Wheel”…

  • Is a specialized travel trailer with a hitch designed to fit a receiver installed in the bed of a pickup truck. This type of hitch provides support for the Fifth Wheel directly above the rear wheels of the pickup. The setup also provides additional living space, better maneuverability, and a tighter turning circle than trailers with bumper-mount hitches. Typical size: L: 25’ to 45’; W: 8’
An image of a pickup and Canyon Trail Fifth Wheel from our archives (not currently in production)
An example of a Fifth Wheel from the Gulf Stream Coach Archives

And, yes, as you might expect, the RV industry has created many trailers that stretch these two categories. But this list of the five basic, most-popular “RV Classes” will help you identify and categorize virtually all RVs. Want to explore more? Check out this article, one of many online that discusses RV Classes.