BARK BT-290 Inflatable Boat – Two-Person 2.9m Motor Dinghy (Higher Power & Capacity)

The Bark BT-290 expands the capabilities of compact motorboats, delivering significantly more power and stability. The increased length to 2.90 m and the addition of a third air chamber make this boat safer and better suited for rougher waters or longer journeys. The extra third chamber means that if one section were unexpectedly compromised, the boat would still stay afloat thanks to the other two – a huge safety advantage at higher speeds.

With the ability to mount up to an 8 HP engine, the BT-290 can be considered a mini inflatable speedboat. In practice, an engine around 5–6 HP is recommended for optimal balance of speed and control, but the structure can handle 8 HP, which is remarkable for a boat under 3 m. This gives a two-person crew the ability to move very quickly – useful on large lakes or stretches of river where you need to cover distance fast (for example, if weather is changing or you have limited time to get back).

The 1.35 m width combined with the larger 36 cm tube diameter gives the boat exceptional stability. Two passengers can sit on the same side or move around without the boat listing excessively. The 6-piece slatted floor spans almost the entire length, making the deck very rigid and flat – comparable to the feel of a hard-floor boat. This is important at higher speeds, as it distributes weight evenly and prevents the structure from flexing when encountering waves. On the flat floor, you can even set up a folding chair or a fishing rod holder if desired.

As part of the BT series, the protective strake and reinforced bottom are present on the BT-290 as well. You can beach the boat more often and with less worry – the tough strips along the keel protect against scrapes when grounding. The strake along the side not only protects the boat, but also your engine by absorbing bumps and vibrations when coming alongside docks or other boats.

Despite its larger size, the BT-290 is still compact enough for easy transport. The dry weight of the boat (~30 kg) is still in a range that allows one person to carry it short distances, and two people with ease. All components pack into a relatively compact bag for storage.

The BT-290 is highly valued by serious fishermen who venture onto big waters or prefer rivers with stronger currents. With this model, they have confidence that their boat will handle it – whether it’s to brave some chop on a large lake or to carry extra gear (for example, camping supplies for multi-day outings). With such a boat, they could even bring a third (light) passenger if needed, or accommodate their catch on the way back without exceeding safe limits.

Bark backs the BT-290 with the same 3-year warranty, even though the boat is engineered beyond the standards of many competitors. This speaks to the brand’s confidence in the build quality and materials used for this model.

Recommended Uses:

• Large lakes and open waters: The BT-290 enables more ambitious outings on water bodies where wind can kick up waves or where you have large distances to cover. For example, on a big reservoir you can launch from one shore and quickly reach remote coves on the opposite side – something that would take far too long in a smaller boat.
• Long fishing circuits: For anglers who like to hit multiple spots in a day, this boat gives them the freedom to do so. With one tank of fuel and a 5–8 HP motor, you can travel miles along a river, stopping at promising spots along the way. The design still only seats two officially, but that means ample room for things like a cooler or extra equipment (fishfinder, GPS) that serious fishermen appreciate.
• Two people + gear adventures: If you’re two people who enjoy camping or photography, the BT-290 will carry you and all your equipment. With up to 340 kg payload, you can bring a tent, food supplies, photography gear, etc., and explore wild places. The boat will remain stable even when loaded, and that third air chamber provides peace of mind at all times.
• Semi-professional tasks: Owing to its power and ruggedness, the BT-290 can take on tasks like patrolling a water body (e.g., by conservation officers), wildlife monitoring, or providing quick access to hard-to-reach river areas for research teams. The boat is small enough to be transported overland to remote launch points and powerful enough on the water to cover ground quickly.