Van Conversion News

National SUP Club Day

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:33:00 GMT

Our next big event will be held on National SUP Day Sunday 26th May where Clubs all over the country will be hosting a range of SUP activities. So if you'd like to give the sport a go book onto one of our taster sessions that will be run throughout the day, for just £5 a head.

This will give you the basics to SUPing and may inspire you to enroll onto our "Ready to Ride" BSUPA Level 1 course.

Due to the popularity of our Open Days please phone or email drew@actionvan.biz to book your slot, the day will run from 10.30 - 15.30, all ages welcome and weather permitting the BBQ will be fired up so refreshments on sale too.

AV SUP Club Open Evening 3 May

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:20:00 GMT

If you love SUP and fancy trying out the latest kit from Starboard, Red Paddle and Nah Skwell or you would just like to have a go at Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) for the first time, then why not join us on Friday 3rd May for the AV SUP Club Open Evening from 6pm onwards.

Look forward to seeing you there!

If you can't make next week, stick this date in your diary - National SUP Day on Sunday 26th May - we'll be hosting another AV SUP Club Open Day giving you another chance to try this great sport or meet like minded paddlers on the river Hamble for a few races. More details coming soon...

You never know there might be one of our famous BBQs if the weather behaves itself!!

If you're coming along to either event please email drew@actionvan.biz to give us an idea of numbers - thanks!

Did you know... we fit pop-up roofs

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

At ActionVan we fit the quality REIMO pop tops and we are about to embark on an SCA fitting both with integral strengthening frame and fold-away bed. Perfect for 2 additional berths and great fun for the kids but perfectly adequate for two adults to sleep, leaving downstairs for the full on camper or loads of toys. It also creates standing room in the van making it ideal for cooking or changing in the warm after a cold surf or wet bike ride.

Worried about losing space for your boards or bikes? Don't worry, we can even stick a roof rack on top of the pop up roof increasing or maintaining your existing storage for you on the outside as well as having a bigger living space on the inside.

We are full of space saving and space creating ideas at ActionVan so if your van is full of kit with no room for the kids or vice versa, why not give us a call and we can help you get everyone and everything in the ActionVan!

Did you know..we fit racking?

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

After years of Windsurfing, Mountain Biking and now Stand up Paddle-boarding (as well as having a couple of kids along the way for good measure), the team at ActionVan know a thing or two about transporting kit and people around comfortably and safely in their CamperVan conversions.

As usual the advice is to sit down and have a good think about how you wish to use your ActionVan. How many people do you need to carry, will this need to change creating a flexible seating option - people carrier in the week - kit carrier at weekends for the toys. Don’t just think about racks on the inside.We can look at adding bike & board racks for the roof and bike racks to the rear to maximise the internal space for living.

We have worked on many different racking configurations over the years, here are some examples to inspire your ActionVan dream conversion.

The ActionVan philosophy is to create vehicles which get you to where you want to go in safely & comfortably, carrying the kit you need, for the adventure ahead. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get planning and get you on the road for 2013. Get in touch here!

For those of you with one of our fully fitted camper conversions already, a car or a boat where space may be an issue, we can highly recommend the Red Paddle Co Inflatable SUP range! All you need for a new sporting addiction - in a bag!

2012 in a FLASH

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 10:48:00 GMT

So 2012 is drawing to a close and what a lot we've packed in! The move to Eastlands Boat Yard at the beginning of May has been a huge success.

Larger premises has meant we are now able to work on 3 vans at the same time in the workshop; getting you in your ActionVan quicker than ever before. We've also built a shop/meeting area to improve your ActionVan experience. Now you can sit in comfort as we plan the ActionVan of your dreams surrounded by all of the great things you could pack in it; everything from SUP Race Boards, Inflatable Red Paddle Boards and beautiful Whiskey Jack wooden paddles to T5 Seat Covers, T'shirts and Rucksacks.

On top of all that with the workshop being next to the river Hamble, we've set up the AV SUP Club & Training Centre offering Stand Up Paddle Board lessons and sales. This year we have held 2 very popular open days with paddling and van chat abound. What more could you want? We will be doing some more in the new year so watch this space...

As always thank you all for your support and here's to you being part of the 2013 ActionVan Adventure

Did you know...We fit heating and insulation

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

When you first think about buying your ActionVan it’s possible you have visions of Hawaiian type scenery, SUP Board on the sand, a cold beer in hand, sitting next to your ActionVan, chatting with your mates about the fantastic day you’ve had on the water. The reality, if you live in the UK! Unfortunately far from this dream, even in the height of summer; seriously can you remember the last balmy evening we had?!

If you’re anything like us, you’re going to want to get out all year round and make the most of your new action packed vehicle so here’s where ActionVan step in and sort you out. Not only can we insulate the ActionVan; we use a 15mm foam sheet insulation similar to that used for camping carry mats bonded to the metal shell of the van with contact adhesive. But we can also install heating systems for the whole vehicle, starts at £1,499 fully fitted, so even when it’s looking frosty outside, you’re toasty on the inside. There are many different options to choose from so get in touch to discuss what works for your vehicle.

The other plus points are the fact that the insulation sound proofs the van from road noise, is extremely light (no noticeable increase in fuel cost) doesn’t take on any moisture and reduces condensation considerably. Result!

Obviously once you have this done the UK weather next summer will be tropical, but don't worry as the insulation will keep the van cool too! Don't forget to think about your electric wiring loom before we start this process!

You know how it goes, any questions on this or any other part conversion types just get in touch and have a chat. We’ll give you our unrivalled advice on what’s best for you.

Did you know…We fit windows

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

When planning your ActionVan you need to consider how you are going to use your van, and fitting the right type of windows can make a real difference. If you have a kitchen/dining area and want to be able to sit in the van you should consider side windows on both sides to make the most of the natural light and ventilation. If on the other hand your van is more functional/bigger you should think about where the windows sit to allow the maximum use of space for board racks / bike fixings etc.

The most common windows we fit are the Original VW and Mercedes bonded style, which we can arrange to be limo tinted if required, for maximum security as well as looking good.

Other areas to consider when thinking about windows and ventilation are the double glazed variety, more suited to motorhomes and caravans and roof lights some of which come with integral fans.

As usual with any ActionVan conversion there are so many options open to you, the best approach is to tell us what you want to be able to do with the van and we’ll make sensible suggestions for you to choose from. Use our experience and make the ActionVan of your dreams a reality.

SUP Day and ActionVan at Watergate Bay

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Another great turn out at the weekend at ActionVan HQ on the Hamble.

Thank you to all of you that took part and made the day a great success both SUPing and 'Van talking'.

With SUP taster sessions and loads of kit from – Nah Skwell (thank you Jon & for your contribution below), Starboard and Red Air, as well as tuition from resident SUPer Karl (Jack) (BSUPA instructor) A big thanks to him for giving up his time.

If you want to keep up to date with what Karl is up to 'like' the ActionVan page on Facebook or follow @actionvan on Twitter and he'll let you know when he's out and about on the water or when the weather is just too good to miss out on a bit of SUPing!

And not forgetting a big thank you to Molly and Nina for sorting the BBQ

The weather was kind to us too, sunshine and flat water - perfect. Lets hope for a few more days like this before the nights draw in and don't forget to place those orders for your kit!

ActionVan's next adventure is exhibiting down at Watergate Bay, Cornwall for the Extreme Academy 2012 BSUPA National Championship on 13/14 October featuring the UK leading exponents of the sport, Stand Up Paddle Boarding.

Join us for more 'van talk' and some not so flat water!

Find out more about the event at: www.ipaddleboard.co.uk

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Now over to Jon for his take on the ActionVan Open Day:

"Hi everyone,

Somehow, Drew once again managed to book a cracking day several weeks in advance - He must have higher connections than me!

I rocked up with 14 boards and about 30 paddles for people to try, and was very glad of the assistance of the Action Van Crew to get it all ready in time for the first arrivals - in fact, I did not manage to get a picture with every board laid out ready to go, as it got busy pretty quick, so I was on the go all day, feeding boards and paddles in and out, while Capt. Jack ran the taster sessions!

Molly and her friend were in charge of the BBQ, Drew and Mary chatted to people about Van conversions and SUPs, and of course, Woody spent all day retrieving his ball (until it went missing!), while Murphy once again showed his taste in boards, by sitting on a Kool until it was needed (Murphy does not normally go near boards, but the first time we took Kool's along to a demo at Action Van, we had a job to get him off it - obviously a dog with impeccable taste!)

And that is how the day rushed by - Fortunately, Farid had arrived and told me he did not think he would go out, so 'volunteered' to take a few pictures of the day for me.

Fantastic, as there was no way I was going to get a chance, so thanks to his selfless act, please see some pictures of the day below.

Great day - can't beat getting lots of people out on the water, having fun in the sun.

Thanks to all who came along, and the ActionVan Crew for laying it on - hope it helped to inspire you all to get out there more, as well as helping some of you to understand more about how different boards and paddles work for you, which at the end of the day is the most important thing - SUP is a very 'connected sport', so the gear has to 'feel right' for you to get the most out of it.

Those happy smiling faces mean a lot to me - It's why I've spent well over 30 years, trying to get people on the water, and to develop better products to help with this - SUP is the most accessible and addictive way I have found so far!

Hope we can organise a club trip to the pub again soon!

Happy paddling,

Jon"

ActionVan Open Day - With Free SUP Taster Sessions.

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Following on from the success of our last open day we are holding another SUP demo Day This Saturday (29th Sept) - Its a great opportunity to Talk about your latest Van Conversion project and have some fun at the same time.

WHATS ON OFFER:

Taster sessions on the river Hamble with various SUP boards – Starboard, Nah Skwell and Red Air

Tuition from qualified BSUPA recognised instructors SUP races for those of you who fancy more of a challenge!

A BBQ (small donation on the day) and chance to talk SUP and Vans with other enthusiasts

We do have a few wetsuits and buoyancy aids you can use if this is all new to you, but an old pair of trainers wouldn't go amiss! Please bring your own gear if you have it.

If you have seen and liked the look of SUP at the National Windsurfing Festival last weekend or if have heard about the sport and wondered what it's all about then just come down and have a go…be warned once you have tried it you'll be hooked!

RSVP to drew@actionvan.biz or call 01489 588 327 if you're coming along so we have an idea of numbers…thanks!

ActionVan SUP club now a BSUPA recognised school

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:12:00 GMT

We are now a BSUPA recognised school and our club has now doubled its members since we officially opened in August this year.

Our annual membership fees are just £100 per person, £160 joint membership or £ 50 youth membership (12-17 years, must be accompanied by a parent/guardian). This includes:

Access Code To Secure Site
Access Code To Toilets and Showers
Parking
Loads of Demo Kit Available
Two Launch Sites
BBQ/Picnic Area
Kit Washing Facilities
On Site Shop with loads of toys

Visit our SUP club home page >>

Sam Ross and his fantastic SUP adventure for charity

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 23:00:00 GMT

One of our happy customers has just completed an amazing feat of SUP!

Over a period of six days in six different locations Sam Ross, proud ActionVan Team Driver paddled over 134 miles, which is the equivalent of a British channel crossing every day.

The focus of the trip was to raise money for Julia’s House, a children’s hospice in the Bournemouth area and this took Sam across the length and breadth of the country.

Originally Sam had thought the challenge would take seven days to complete however with the aid of the Starboard 12’6” touring board and its fantastic attributes he was able to complete the distance a day sooner than he had hoped.

ActionVan now have the very same Touring board here for you to demo; so why not come down to ActionVan and find out for yourself how well it glides and covers great distances in style.

For more info on S.U.P Boards, S.U.P Tuition or to discuss your Van Conversion requirement to transport all these NEW toys just give us a shout!

ActionVan - SUP and Sausage Success

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Well who would have thought it - we arranged an outdoor event with a BBQ and it actually didn't rain!

Thanks to everyone for attending on Saturday, It was great to see you all!

So many of you gave SUP a try and loved it so we hope you'll consider joining the ActionVan SUP club.

For more details just give us a call.

We reckon we'll start making this event a regular thing so keep your eyes open for updates on the usual channels - website, email, Facebook & Twitter - we'll publish a schedule soon...

in the meantime check out the pics from Saturday here

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ActionVan Open Day This Saturday

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 23:00:00 GMT

SUP and Sausage! Actionvan is opening its doors this Saturday (21st July) 10-4pm

Come and try your hand at Stand Up Paddle Boarding (also known as SUP).

We will have a wide range of equipment to try out from Starboard, Nah Skwell and Red Paddle as well as expert tuition so you'll be in good hands.

The weather is also threatening to be good on Saturday so we will having a BBQ as well as the usual ActionVan banter about boards and vans! What's not to like?! Come see what we're up to at our new workshop and get fed and get wet - happy days!

Check out the website for directions to the Boatyard.

See you there!

Did you know we do this...?

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 14:41:00 GMT

we make all of our wiring looms to fit each individual electrical requirement you have for your CamperVan.

You just write a wishlist of how you want all your electrics to work – have one light switch by the bed for lights out. Have a few sockets in the kitchen area for appliances. Or how about a light in the board rack area to load up as the sun’s going down (or rainclouds are gathering!)

Planning in advance makes it easy for all the wiring to be concealed behind paneling; keeping the inside of the ActionVan looking good whilst being exceptionally functional.

Why not give us a call for more help and advice on your Van electrics or read more here http://www.actionvan.biz/conversion-elements/electrical-systems

ActionVan recently worked with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Their brief, to produce a Mobile Recruitment Vehicle, based on a Citroen Despatch, for use at loads of events across the region to recruit new members for The Trust.

The van had to be a mobile advert externally and provide loads of information internally, both from graphic boards and a built in TV. We utilised the ActionVan racking to create the internal display boards which doubled up as doors to hide the huge 2 tiered storage area for all their marketing material, chairs and tables.

A vinyl wrap was designed and applied to create the initial impact and an awning was applied for protection from sun and rain!

The electrics for the TV are powered by 2 large auxiliary batteries charged by a split charge relay whilst traveling and a solar panel on the roof.

The Trust hope to run more of these vans in the future and we as new corporate members look forward to working with them again soon.

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