Caframo is one of the most trusted names in interior fans for adventure vehicles and boats. They produce high-quality fans that are durable, efficient and powerful despite their compact design. But when choosing one for your setup, should you go for the Sirocco fan or the Bora fan?
Both models are well known across the caravanning, RVing and marine communities. They are low-voltage circulating fans built to keep you cool and comfortable in your van or boat while conserving your off-grid power.
However, the Caframo team at Seekr designed the Sirocco and Bora for different applications. In this guide, we break down their features and capabilities so you can identify which one best suits your campervan, caravan, motorhome or boat.
Sirocco Fan vs Bora Fan at a Glance
| Sirocco 12V/24V Fan | Bora 12V Fan | |
|---|---|---|
| Place of Origin | Canada | Canada |
| Type of Fan | Circulating fan | Circulating fan |
| Build Material | Marine-grade plastic | Marine-grade plastic |
| Physical Dimensions | 89 x 241 x 305 mm | 76.2 x 165.1 x 241.3 mm |
| Available Styles | Two (black or white) | Two (black or white) |
| Power Requirements | 12V and 24V DC | 12V DC |
| Fan Motor | Brushed | Brushed |
| Fan Speed | 3 speed settings | 3 speed settings |
| Fan Timer | 4 modes | None |
| Fan Airflow | Up to 185 CFM | Up to 130 CFM |
| Power Consumption | 0.12 - 0.35 amps | 0.15 - 0.27 amps |
What Is the Seekr Bora DC Fan?
The Bora fan is Caframo's most compact interior circulating fan, ideal when space is limited in your campervan, caravan, motorhome or boat. Despite its small size, it still provides a respectable airflow capacity of 100 β 130 CFM.
Designed for 12V DC electrical systems, this fan can be wired directly to your battery bank without the need for a converter or inverter. It offers three operating speeds, which define both airflow output and the amount of power drawn from your batteries.
Like other fans from Seekr by Caframo, the Bora is made of robust ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) and FR-ABS (fire-retardant acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastics. These materials provide excellent impact resistance, improving durability and long-term reliability.
What Is the Caframo Sirocco DC Fan?
The Sirocco fan also features a compact design, though it is slightly larger than the Bora model. It is a great choice when you need stronger airflow or want the convenience of automatic shut-off functionality.
In terms of airflow, the Sirocco delivers 125β185 CFM, adjustable across three speed settings. It also includes four built-in timer modes that allow the fan to switch off automatically β very useful at night when you don't want to wake up just to turn it off.
Despite these advanced features, the Sirocco maintains an impressively low power draw of 0.12β0.35 amps. It is also compatible with both 12V and 24V DC systems, giving you more flexibility when connecting it to your electrical setup.
How Do the Sirocco and Bora Fans Compare Feature by Feature?
Design
The overall design of the two fans differs in several ways. Yes, they both come from the same manufacturer and feature a fan head with a grill cover and a pivoting mounting base. However:
- The Sirocco has a slightly broader base footprint, while that of the Bora model is very narrow.
- The rear grill cover of the Bora is secured with screws, while that of the Sirocco model is not.
- The Sirocco's fan head is integrated into a gimballed frame, whereas that of the Bora model is not.
Physical Size
Both fans are designed for campers and boats with limited interior space. However, the Bora is more compact, measuring only 76.2 Γ 165.1 Γ 241.3 mm when in the open position.
In contrast, the Sirocco measures 89 Γ 241 Γ 305 mm when open. Unlike its counterpart, it can be folded at its base arms for neat stowing against its mounting surface.
Styling and Colour Options
Both fans feature a sleek, unobtrusive design suitable for any spot in your van or boat. They also come in two classic colour options β white and black β for seamless interior matching:
- Black Bora vs black Sirocco: ideal for dull or dark interior settings
- White Bora vs white Sirocco: ideal for bright interior settings
Durability
Caframo has earned the trust of the caravanning, RVing and marine community thanks to its durable, well-made products.
For example, the housings of both fans are made of heavy-duty ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) and FR-ABS (fire-retardant acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) β both high-impact plastics. Meanwhile, the blades are made of polyethylene, another material known for excellent impact strength and toughness.
This tough build ensures your fan can withstand extreme vibrations from rough off-grid roads and choppy waters. It's also a mark of strong craftsmanship, reflected in the long warranty support offered for both fans.
Voltage Compatibility
The Sirocco takes the lead here, as the current model is compatible with both 12V and 24V DC electrical systems. Its circuit board features an advanced power-supply module that automatically senses incoming voltage and stabilises it according to your van or boat's electrical supply, ensuring consistent performance without risk of damage.
Meanwhile, the Bora currently available in our store has a fixed-voltage circuit that operates at 12V. 24V models are available on request, though most adventure vans and boats in Australia use 12V battery systems.
Installation Method
The two low-voltage fans require ceiling or wall mounting before use. They come with the basic mounting components, including screws and a short electrical cable for connecting to your DC power supply.
One difference worth noting:
- The Bora's power wires are integrated into the fan.
- The Sirocco features integrated terminal studs to which you connect the provided power wires yourself.
Please note: both fans operate on 12V (or 24V, depending on the model) without requiring a voltage converter or inverter. Their low power consumption allows them to be connected to:
- A battery busbar
- A fuse panel box
- A 12V DC socket, such as a cigarette lighter port
- A nearby lighting circuit or another DC accessory
Airflow Capacity
The Sirocco leads again with an airflow rating of 185 CFM, meaning it moves more air than the Bora, which is rated at 130 CFM.
For those unfamiliar, CFM (cubic feet per minute) indicates how much air a fan can move β the higher the CFM, the more air the fan can push.
Therefore, the Sirocco is the better choice if you want to feel a cooling breeze from a distance. The airflow capacity also determines how fast air is exchanged within a space, so the Sirocco will replace air inside your campervan, caravan, motorhome or boat faster than the Bora model.
Airflow Positioning
Both fans allow you to direct airflow at different angles, but they operate differently.
On the Sirocco, the fan head sits inside a gimballed frame, allowing effortless 360-degree rotation. The head frame also includes a pivoting arm that can be raised or lowered to your preferred vertical angle by unlocking the integrated latch.
The Bora, on the other hand, does not have a gimbal frame. However, its fan head can still be positioned at different vertical angles by lifting or lowering it (after unlocking the integrated latch). You can also tilt the fan in any horizontal direction around its mounting base by loosening the screw-on nut cap that secures it to the mounting adapter.
Controls and Timer Function
Both Caframo fans feature intuitive, easy-to-use controls. The Sirocco has its control buttons at the base β two buttons handling power, speed adjustment and automatic modes. The power and speed share one button, while the automated timer (3, 6, 9 and 12 hours) uses the other.
Meanwhile, the Bora lacks a timer function. You only get multiple speed settings, controlled by the single button on the fan's face.
Power Efficiency
Caframo designed both fans for low-voltage systems and efficient performance without draining your battery bank. Since the Bora has lower airflow capacity and fewer features, it draws less power:
- 0.15 amp on low speed
- 0.18 amp on medium speed
- 0.27 amp on high speed
The Sirocco is also energy-efficient, drawing 0.12 amp on low speed, 0.22 amp on medium and 0.35 amp on high.
Care and Maintenance
Both fans have removable grills and blades for easy cleaning. However, the Bora grille requires unscrewing, while the Sirocco grille can be removed without tools.
Once the grille is off, you can use a soft cloth to wipe dust from all parts β the grille, fan blade and frame.
Tip: the fan must be powered off before cleaning. Avoid harsh solvent-based or petroleum-based cleaners, as they can damage the plastic components.
Price in Australia
Caframo's circulating fans are built for performance and durability, so they are not the cheapest options on the market. However, both fall under the $200 price range, making them reasonably budget-friendly.
The Bora is more affordable β currently priced at about $130 in our store, while the Sirocco model costs about $180. But even with an extra $50, the Sirocco is still well worth it for the added features and performance.
Do Circulating Fans Bring In Fresh Air?
Whether you choose the Sirocco or Bora, remember that these Caframo fans are designed for air circulation. They circulate the existing air inside your van or boat; they do not pull in fresh air on their own.
As such, you must pair them with open windows or roof vents for the best results. This promotes proper exchange of fresh and stale air, keeping your space cool, smelling fresh and comfortable to stay in.
Should You Get a Sirocco Fan or a Bora Fan?
The best fan for your campervan, caravan, motorhome or boat depends on your space, ventilation needs and personal preferences. However, the ideal applications of the two fans are generally opposite.
Choose a Sirocco fan if you:
- Have adequate mounting space
- Need stronger airflow movement
- Want the built-in timer β especially useful when kids are on board
On the other hand, choose a Bora fan if you:
- Have limited mounting space
- Are comfortable with moderate airflow
- Don't require timer functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a Sirocco or Bora fan on a 24V system?
The current Sirocco model works with both 12V and 24V DC systems, automatically sensing and stabilising the incoming voltage. The Bora stocked in our store operates at 12V, though 24V models are available on request.
How much power do these 12V fans draw?
Very little. The Bora draws 0.15 amp on low, 0.18 amp on medium and 0.27 amp on high, while the Sirocco draws 0.12 amp on low, 0.22 amp on medium and 0.35 amp on high β low enough to run from a busbar, fuse panel, 12V socket or a nearby lighting circuit.
Which fan moves more air?
The Sirocco, with up to 185 CFM across its three speeds, compared with up to 130 CFM for the Bora. Higher CFM means a stronger breeze and faster air exchange inside your van or boat.
How much do the Sirocco and Bora fans cost in Australia?
Both sit under the $200 mark: the Bora is currently about $130 in our store, while the Sirocco is about $180.
Ready to keep your van or boat cool off-grid? Browse our full range of 12V low-voltage fans at Campervan Builders and find the right fit for your build.
