Originally published 2019-08-16.
Campers have always been available in various shapes and sizes throughout the years. But, get ready to welcome a camper that can also be used on water. The camper, called Sealander, is amphibian, as it can be used on both the water and land fronts.
The creation behind it is pretty impressive- designed by German engineer Daniel Straub, this is primarily for those people who want to have a quiet little picnic on a lake, but also savor being on land. It contains a removable sunroof for sunbathing, stereo, benches, sink- the perfect home. It isn’t suited to be a permanent residence, of course, but it would still work as a great entertainment unit.
The camper is both a yacht and a caravan at the same time, being completely space-efficient. It is also a scientific marvel and has all the designs for sophistication and luxury. A perfect place to get away from daily life. You can also read about it here.
Two settings create two sets of questions
The design's attraction is the possibility of taking one small interior from land to water. That makes the transition itself part of the appeal. Look at how seating, storage and access are arranged, then consider how their usefulness changes between a parked campsite and a floating setting. A compact layout has to serve both situations rather than simply look spacious in photographs.
A concept feature is not an operating guide
The description above does not establish the conditions in which a particular model can be used or the requirements for towing and navigation. Those details belong to the manufacturer's current documentation and relevant local guidance. The feature is best read as an introduction to a design idea, with practical limitations treated as part of the design rather than something the appealing pictures make unnecessary.
Sealander’s specifications
The Sealander was designed by the German industrial designer Daniel Straub and shown at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf in 2011, eight years before this post; shipping was expected to begin in early 2012. It combines a camping trailer with an electric power boat and is meant for inland waters only. The trailer is 389 cm long, 160 cm wide and 185 cm high and weighs 380 kg. A 5 hp low-emission electric motor drives it on water and also powers the devices on board. The shell is made of fibreglass-reinforced plastic with a double bottom so that it will not sink if it leaks, and its shallow draught lets it be launched from a small stretch of clear shore. Inside, a modular layout includes a cooking and washing module, a cooler, a heater, a table and two benches that convert to enlarge the deck; a portable toilet was optional. The price was expected to be around €15,000. According to the maker, no special licence was needed to tow or sail it in Germany.
Sources: New Atlas, 12 September 2011: Sealander amphibious camper
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