BARK B-260N Inflatable Boat – Two-Person Boat with Transom (260 cm, Motor-Ready up to 2.5 HP)

The BARK B-260N is among BARK’s most popular models because it offers a unique balance of size, weight, and motor performance. The concept of this model is to provide the user with a lightweight two-person boat (~22 kg) that can still be fitted with a small engine without losing its stability and advantages as a rowboat. At 2.60 m in length, the B-260N gives spacious interior room and an excellent load capacity of 233 kg. The integrated transom board is extremely sturdy – designed to handle engines up to 2.5 HP (or electric equivalent) and to withstand prolonged use. The slatted floor provides a flat platform, which means the boat retains rigidity even at higher speed (the boat doesn’t flex or lose shape). The B-260N is renowned for outperforming other brands in its class in terms of speed with a motor – the specific hull shape and optimal tube diameter result in less drag and better glide on the water. Simply put, this boat can scoot.

Key Advantages:

• Exceptional Handling: Whether rowing or under power, the B-260N responds quickly and precisely to your inputs. When rowing, the boat exhibits maneuverability similar to smaller models because the weight is kept low and the hull shape is optimized. When using an engine, the steering is smooth, and the boat holds its course without significant “porpoising” – the 2.6 m length gives it the necessary longitudinal stability. It turns crisply and predictably, inspiring confidence even if you’re not an expert helmsman.
• Higher Speed: The B-260N can achieve a higher speed than 2.3–2.5 m boats of competitors with the same motor, as confirmed by numerous field tests. With a 2.5 HP motor and two people aboard, the boat attains a very respectable pace (~10–12 km/h depending on conditions), which is impressive for such a compact inflatable. This speed efficiency also means fuel economy – the boat doesn’t overburden the engine, so you’ll use less fuel or battery to get around. You can cover a lot of water swiftly, making it great for searching out fishing hotspots or just feeling the breeze.
• Multifunctionality: The B-260N is a great solution for those who want one boat to do it all. In the morning you can cruise under power to reach a distant fishing spot, then quietly paddle in the shallows where a motor would be intrusive, and later in the day fire up the engine again to quickly return to base. The boat plays the role of both a nimble fishing skiff (with a motor) and a leisurely rowboat for fun and exercise (with oars). This dual nature means you’re prepared for anything – exploring, relaxing, or hustling to beat an oncoming storm.
• Reliability & Safety: As with all BARK boats, safety is paramount – two separate air chambers keep the boat afloat even if one is punctured; the tube material is tough to puncture and resists aging. The B-260N’s package includes essential safety and maintenance gear – the repair kit allows you to patch up even out in the field, if needed. The high freeboard keeps you dry when moving faster or in small waves. The boat has the ability to carry an engine, but it’s designed such that if the engine fails, you can still row back to shore easily – it’s not a compromise vessel, but a fully capable rowboat with an added function. You’re never stuck relying solely on a motor.
• Adventure-Ready: The B-260N comes with everything you need – oars for when you’re not motoring, a foot pump for quick inflation, a carry bag for transport. This means from the moment of purchase you’re ready for adventure. Just grab your favorite motor (if you have one, or acquire a small outboard separately) and you’re set to explore new waters. Its kit and size support spontaneity – you can always keep the boat in your trunk and if you stumble upon a nice lake, in 15–20 minutes you can have it inflated, engine mounted, and off you go. Being prepared to seize the moment is a key benefit of this model – it encourages you to go out and enjoy, without making it a big production each time.

Recommended Uses & Applications:

• Active Fishing (Spinning, Trolling): The B-260N is particularly suitable for dynamic fishing styles. With it, you can quickly cover large areas, casting lures around promising structures. If you see fish activity further away, you can zip over with the motor, then shut it off and coast in quietly with paddles to avoid spooking them. For trolling – the boat holds a steady line, and a small motor will push you at an ideal trolling speed. Its stable floor and transom allow you to use rod holders and troll multiple lines at once. It’s a fishing machine that punches above its weight, giving you capabilities often only found in larger rigs.
• Big Water and Light Chop: If you frequently boat on larger bodies of water where a wind chop can develop, the B-260N will perform better than smaller boats. Its length lets it span and slice through small waves more easily and keep the bow from burying in. Of course, it’s not for heavy seas, but for big lakes or wide rivers where wind kicks up some waves, the B-260N provides a more stable ride. You’ll appreciate the longer waterline when conditions are not glassy – it rides smoother and you stay drier.
• Hunting & Patrol: The boat can be used by hunters or water patrol (e.g., fishery inspectors). Its speed helps to cover a perimeter, and when something is spotted, you can quietly approach with oars. The green color and low profile are advantages for stealth. If needed, the boat can reach and tow someone or carry equipment (thanks to its decent capacity). For hunters, it can ferry you and your decoys out and then serve to retrieve downed birds. For patrol, it’s a cost-effective way to have presence on the water, quick to deploy when you need to check on something.
• Long Journeys & Camping: The B-260N is comfortable for longer water treks as well as camping. Picture drifting down a river for days – the engine helps when necessary, and you enjoy the scenery otherwise. Drop anchor or beach at night to camp, then continue the next day. The dual row/motor option means you’re ready for varied conditions. Its packed size is compact, so your camping gear can easily share space in your vehicle. And while camping, the boat doubles as a short-distance transport – maybe you paddle out to catch dinner (fish) and motor back if you stayed out a bit late. It adds a new dimension to camping by water, allowing one to travel along the waterways rather than just camp beside them.

Why Choose BARK B-260N?
By choosing the BARK B-260N, you’re betting on a proven design that merges the best of two worlds – rowing and motorboating. The numerous positive reviews from anglers across Europe attest to its reliability and effectiveness. The B-260N allows you to push beyond the limitations of small rowboats without moving up to a significantly more expensive or heavier motorboat. It’s only “compromised” in price – because you get a lot of functionality for a reasonable cost – but not in quality or capabilities. With this boat, you can be sure that you have a tool that will grow with your hobby; if today you primarily row, tomorrow you might attach a motor and discover new horizons. BARK ensures that even under more intensive use (say daily throughout the season), the boat will stand the test of time. With the 3-year warranty provided, you have long-term support and peace of mind, which adds even more value. The B-260N stands out among competitors with its intelligent design and execution – it’s the result of an evolution of the B-260 and B-250 models, taking everything good from them and adding the motor potential. If your goal is to have a compact yet fast and well-rounded boat that can adapt to various scenarios – from a tranquil row, to adrenaline-fueled fishing, to urgent speed when needed – the BARK B-260N is built for you. It’s an optimal choice for those who want maximum versatility from a portable boat.