I could tell you all about how the Volkswagen California Ocean (6.1) and the Grand California for that matter, are premium campervans. And with features such as 4MOTION all-wheel drive (AWD), adaptive cruise control, and an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, they promise reliable and safe journeys.
I could go on to say that the interior is thoughtfully designed to maximise comfort in a compact space, and how it features an expanding roof for added room and excellent sleeping arrangements including a spacious rooftop bed and a fold-down lower cabin-level bed. Or that the meticulously crafted kitchen includes a two-ring gas hob, a sturdy cover that doubles as a worktop, and a removable washing-up bowl, ensuring meals like bacon sandwiches or classic Kiwi fish and chips are always within reach. Or that it has a fridge to keep your favourite beverage cool.
And I definitely could tell you that from its safety systems (including Driver Steering Recommendation, Crosswind Assist, Lane Assist, and Park Assist), to its robust 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine that combines economy with a respectable range, the California campervan excels as both a daily driver and a long-haul adventure vehicle.
But I won’t. Because this review has very little to do with the ‘mechanics’ of the VW California Ocean (well maybe the fridge), and more to do with what it signifies. As this home away from home, allowed me to find a camping spot, switch off my phone, open a cold beverage and share a weekend of yarns with my father – a truly priceless experience.
You see, Martins Bay Holiday Park is but a mere 45 mins away from my home, and regardless of how capable the VW camper is on (and even off) the road, the drive itself is rather uninteresting.
Arriving around midday, we set up camp (basically parked), in the designated area, plugged in to the power, broke out the outdoor table and chairs from their clever spaces, and began to chat – and chat, and chat.
My father is an octogenarian but still fit and healthy and got more marbles than a Victorian child’s toy chest – hopefully the gene-pool continues. But he also has a chest full of stories and advice, that (once lubricated with alcohol), he happily shared.
For example, as a kid he worked up on the milkrun in Edinburgh, alongside none other than Sean Connery, yesh Mr Bond himself. Also, in the same area, a ghost called the grey lady used to wander the streets – I was pleased we discussed this during daylight hours. He’s worked on the blacktop (tarmacing the UK roads), he’s been a scaffolder, he’s been a scrap metal merchant and traveled the world both prior to and after meeting my mother.
We lost mum a few years back (F### Cancer), but her exploits and memories were shared in-depth and glasses were raised in her honour.
We smiled, we laughed, we paused and reflected and swore more than once. We covered politics, sport, a bit of religion and family (among various other subjects). We talked of the UK and of New Zealand and even ‘Merica, the good, the bad and the ugly – yes we talked about Western’s too.
No subject was off limits and (as with the beer and nibbles) the conversation simply flowed, all without the interference of a phone call or email. Just 2 wise men (well one at least) conversing face to face – as simple as that.
I can’t be sure of what time we turned in, but rest assured that day had long since turned to night. And while on the matter of rest, we both awoke the next day in better shape than expected, and cleared the literal air (the virtual one had more than been cleared the previous day) with a walk along the beach.
The California Ocean has been designed to elevate your travel and camping experiences, and it more than did that. Starting at $159,990 for the California Ocean and $169,990 for the Grand California, these mobile homes cater to adventurers seeking freedom, comfort, and versatility, but as mentioned before, it’s impossible to put a price on the weekend’s experience.
For those considering a reliable and feature-packed campervan, the Volkswagen California blends practicality, comfort, and adventure (albeit overnight in our case) seamlessly, ensuring unforgettable trips. I know I’ll remember it for many more years – maybe I’ll get my son to tag along next time…
