2018 Gulf Stream Vintage Cruiser 17RWD Review
The 2018 Gulf Stream Vintage Cruiser is the travel trailer for those with a fondness for vintage aesthetics but don’t want to live without modern comforts.
There are seven floorplans to choose from, ranging from 17’ to 23’ size models. We’re taking a closer look at the Vintage Cruiser 17RWD, which is the most compact option and perfect for a couple.
The Vintage Cruiser 17RWD has a dry weight of 2,825 lbs, a hitch weight of 290 lbs, and a net carrying capacity of 1,125 lbs. The fresh water tank can hold 28 gallons, and the gray and black water tanks can each hold 30 gallons.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2017 Livin’ Lite CampLite 21BHS
The Vintage Cruiser 17RWD is a nice manageable size at 20’ long, 7’6” wide, and 9’10” high. Brushed aluminum diamond plating on the lower portion of the front end guards against damage from debris kicked up by your tow vehicle. The rest of the front, top, and back of the exterior is one single piece of fiberglass so there are no seams for water to get in. The curved shape also provides nice aerodynamics and a natural run-off for water down the front and back.
Vintage exterior graphics and painted bumper and rims, as well as moon hubcaps keep the retro look consistent. A nice wide picture window on the back of the trailer – something you don’t often see – means you can enjoy views all the way around your campsite.
Heading inside, the low steps make for easy entry into the trailer. Despite it’s compact size, there’s still nearly 7’ of ceiling height inside. The vintage vibe décor is a throwback to diners from the 1950s, from the two-tone vinyl booth benches (pick from teal and cream or red and cream) and counter with contrasting edging, to the vintage themed decorative border along the walls and the tie-back curtains in matching color.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2018 Shasta Revere 32DS
The dinette booth, at the rear of the trailer, is surrounded by windows so you can take in the views at every meal and also get great cross-ventilation. The table legs fold up, the top drops down level with the seats, and the back cushions fill it out to create sleeping space for two. Behind one of the benches, there’s a nice wide ledge as well as a hidden storage space behind the cushion. Along with overhead storage space, your entertainment center is right about the booth: AM/FM radio, CD, and DVD player.
Though the look is vintage, the kitchen is all modern when it comes to appliances: a stainless steel microwave, two-burner range top (or opt for the three-burner version with an oven), double-bowl sink with high rise faucet, and a power range vent hood with light. There are also outlets for your coffee maker and other small appliances, as well as USB ports to charge your not-so-vintage electronics. A fun touch, a panel on the door of the five-cubic-foot refrigerator is the same accent color that’s on the dinette benches.
In the bathroom, along with the foot flush toilet and shower, there’s a decent amount of storage space: a wood medicine cabinet with mirrored door, under sink cupboard, and a cubby space. Between the large vent fan and shower skylight, you also get some nice natural light.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2017 Winnebago Micro Minnie
The sleeping area is at the front of the trailer. The queen-size bed comes with a vintage-look comforter and pillow shams to tie it in with the rest of the trailer’s décor. A big window at the head of the queen-size bed lets a breeze and natural light in. Overhead storage cabinets have directional reading lights mounted to the underside.
The Gulf Stream Vintage Cruiser 17RWD starts at about $18,000. Visit GulfStreamCoach.com for more information.
