Really leaning towards the Viewfinder or Outback, however the layout of the Viewfinder seems more open. That being said towing size of the outback is desirable.
Not sure what Passport you are looking at, but as an owner of a 2010 Passport 300BH I can say that we are very happy with it. We use our camper for everything from weekend trips to a 2 week, 5,000 mile round trip from SE Missouri to Key West Florida and Disney World. Best of all the 30ft 6in double slide trailer is easily towed by our 2008 F150 (see sig for details). With having a 5 year old and a dog the linoleum floor is a God send. It is amazing the amount of sand, dirt and gravel that are swept out the front door after each trip. Additionally, most of our trips are to a watery destination. Once again, the linoleum is a God send for changing out of wet bathing suits or wet shoes. We also like the external cook top for being able to cook dinner a be outside when everyone else is outside enjoying the evening. From a quality standpoint we have had very few issues with our camper. The only issues we saw the dealer was great to get fixed with no push back. So, if you are looking for a light weight bunk house that is good for an active family I can highly recommend the Passport.
'08 Ford F150 Supercrew Lariat 4x4 w/6.5' bed 5.4L Triton, 3.73 rear, tow package, K&N air filter
'10 Passport 300BH w/Bulldog acc hitch, Valley bike rack, rev lights
Husky wt dist hitch w/ dual friction anti-sway controls
Primus trailer brake controller
Thank you for taking the time to tell me about your Passport. I too will be towing with a F150, 2011 ecoboost. I like the price of the passport compared to the outback and viewfinder!!
The Viewfinder and Shadow Cruiser are both by Cruiser RV, the Viewfinder is more upscale, the Shadow Cruiser a little lower.
We bought a Shadow Cruiser S 260BHS in May and I responded to another poster asking about the Shadow Cruiser as follows:
As for some observations on the actual trailer we bought, first the weight issue. I chose the trailer for its low weight, 4255 lbs with optional equipment from the factory. I figured I could keep it to 5000 lbs loaded, which is well below my tow rating of 6300 lbs. Last month we received a new label from Cruiser RV, our trailer mysteriously grew to 4910 lbs dry weight. On the website the dry weight is now listed as 4595 lbs, but you need to add 200 lbs for the mandatory option package (A/C, awning, spare, microwave, DSI water heater and upgraded mattress.) That’s still more than 100 lbs less than mine. Rant out of the way, we have used the trailer 19 nights since we bought it in June. We had it back to the dealer 1 time to repair a broken awning, TV antenna cable (common on Cruiser RV units) and one loose molding. Overall that seems to be very good for a new trailer. I was impressed by some of the appointments, considering Shadow Cruiser is the lowest rung on the Cruiser RV ladder. The awning is power, the rims are chrome, there is an outdoor shower and outdoor speakers for the sound system. Instead of a permanent cord that tucks into a hole in the side of the trailer they include a Marinco detachable cord. 4 stabilizer jacks are included. There is a quick connect for a gas barbecue, but no hose to use it. Inside a television mount was included, the sink is stainless steel, the slide mechanism is a Schwintek, the flooring is Beaufloor. Other fittings are typical RV grade plastic, the appliances are basic. Overall build seems to be fair, with the above noted defects so far. Most of the interior wood is vinyl wrapped lightweight plywood, but fit and finish is good. Under the coach are some rough edges, but they are out of sight. The upgraded mattress is not that upgraded, we have added a topper and it is greatly improved. The bunk mattresses also leave something to be desired. Most nights it has been just 2 of us, but we have slept 6 adults with no issues, so your family of 4 should do well. With the large slide there is a lot of floor space. We camp with other people who have motor homes, but our trailer is best for congregating when it cools off outside. I hope this doesn’t deter you from buying, unless the weight is an issue. Although I have a lot of nits to pick, overall we are happy with the trailer and look forward to many nights in the future in it.
Bruce and Jennie
2012 Shadow Cruiser S260-BHS
2007 Silverado CC 1500 4.8L 3.73
I bought a Passport 2910BH last May from Holman RV. I live in Rhode Island and my family of 6 love the layout and features of the 2910BH. I pull it with a Yukon XL Denali and have had no issues. Large slide out with dinette and couch as well as the rear access door are great.
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