BARK B-280N – Three-Person Inflatable Rowing Boat with Transom (Motor-Optional 3-Seater)

The Bark B-280N extends the capabilities of the standard three-person B-280 by adding a transom board, effectively turning it into a rowing boat with motor option and greater capacity. This model is meant for those who want to carry up to 3 people or a substantial amount of cargo, but also desire the option to use an engine to cover longer distances. The B-280N maintains an exceptionally low weight for its class – around 23 kg – which is remarkable given its size and the added transom hardware.

The boat’s construction (2.80 m x 1.35 m, 36 cm tubes) remains unchanged from the B-280, meaning the stability and buoyancy are at the same high level as the base model. The three-person layout with a wide beam ensures safety even when three people are distributed unevenly or moving about during the trip. The 3-piece slatted floor again provides rigidity and allows weight to be spread evenly – critical when adding the weight of an engine and fuel.

The transom board on the B-280N is designed to mount a small outboard engine. Bark officially recommends up to 2.5 HP for this size, which corresponds to a small four-stroke outboard or an electric trolling motor with roughly 40–50 lbs thrust. In practice, however, thanks to its robust build and wide-set tubes, the boat can handle engines in the ~3.5 to 5 HP range (for example, lightweight two-stroke models) in calm conditions with sensible operation. This significantly expands its capabilities – the B-280N can achieve higher speeds and overcome river currents far more easily than rowing alone. For instance, with a 3.5 HP two-stroke engine, the boat might reach 15+ km/h under light load, which is more than sufficient for most fishing or touring purposes.

Handling the boat under power is straightforward, as its wide hull helps stabilize its course. At the same time, rowing remains a viable option – with the motor removed or turned off when you want peace and quiet, the B-280N rows just as easily as the base model. This dual-mode operation makes the boat extremely versatile. You could use it as a motorboat to take three people across a big lake, then when you want tranquility, shut off the engine and enjoy silent paddling along the shoreline.

Safety is not overlooked – in fact, with the B-280N, it’s enhanced by the very fact that you can get back to shore faster if the weather changes, thanks to the motor. Additionally, the boat is built with Bark’s standard two independent air chambers and tough PVC material, able to withstand the extra vibrations and thrust from the engine. The manufacturer includes a 3-year warranty on this model as well, underscoring their confidence in its craftsmanship.

Recommended Uses: The Bark B-280N is ideal for large bodies of water and long routes where a pure rowing boat might limit your range. For example, on a big reservoir or lake, three anglers can head out early with the motor running across open water to a distant spot, then shut down the engine and fish quietly once they arrive. Fishing clubs and guides would value the B-280N as a boat that can hold two clients plus a guide, allowing quick movement between fishing spots on a lake. For hunters in marshes or broad rivers, this boat provides the capacity to take a dog and two hunters, powering upstream with the motor to reach hunting grounds, then drifting silently downstream with paddles when needed. The B-280N is also suitable for rescue or patrol operations where carrying 2–3 people with gear is necessary – the motor will save time, and the boat is stable enough for work like pulling in debris or assisting others from the water. Last but not least, for campers and adventurers traveling on big rivers like the Danube or exploring expansive lakes, the B-280N offers assurance: you know you have the engine’s power to take you far, and the reliability of oars if needed. This flexibility and greater capacity make the Bark B-280N one of the top choices for a three-person inflatable that’s ready for motorization.