Choosing The Right Outboard Motor for Your Inflatable Boat

Why Motor Choice Matters

For inflatable boats, the motor you choose makes all the difference in safety, performance, and efficiency. A motor that’s too weak can leave you struggling against wind or current, while one that’s too powerful can exceed your boat’s safe operating limits.

In the U.S., the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulates horsepower, capacity, and safety requirements for small craft. Staying within your boat’s rated limits ensures both compliance and safe boating for you and your passengers.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Horsepower & Capacity – Always match your motor to your True Kit’s maximum HP rating.
2. Weight – A lighter motor is easier to mount, carry, and transport.
3. Usage – Family trips, fishing, or tender runs each demand different levels of thrust and efficiency.
4. Fuel Type – Choose between gas outboards (powerful and proven) or electric outboards (quiet and eco-friendly).
5. Regulations – Stay compliant with USCG horsepower rules and check state-specific boating laws.

Gas vs Electric Outboards

• Gas Outboards: Leading brands like Mercury, Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki USA dominate for their reliability, service networks, and consistent performance.
• Electric Outboards: Brands like Torqeedo, ePropulsion, and Remigo Electric Outboards are revolutionizing clean boating with portable, quiet, zero-emission options.

For eco-sensitive waters, refer to the EPA Recreational Boating guidelines for best practices.

Best Outboard Motors for True Kit Models

Discovery – Open-Bow Family & Adventure Boat

• Discovery 280 (Max 8hp):

  Recommended motor: Honda BF5 (5hp, 4-stroke)

  This outboard offers lightweight portability (just over 60 lbs), fuel efficiency, and quiet operation, making it ideal for small family outings. It has enough thrust to manage passengers, pets, and gear without being overkill.

  Electric alternative: ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus — compact, emission-free, and perfect for calm U.S. lakes or coastal bays.

• Discovery 330 (Max 15hp):

  Recommended motor: Yamaha F9.9 (9.9hp, 4-stroke)

  A trusted mid-range outboard with smooth acceleration and steady reliability. At approximately 88 lbs, it’s powerful enough for beach launches or day trips, while staying manageable for transport and mounting.

• Discovery 400 (Max 20hp):

  Recommended motor: Mercury 20hp EFI (4-stroke)

  Known for Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) efficiency, this outboard provides quick starts and strong thrust — ideal when carrying multiple passengers or towing a small inflatable tube for family fun.

👉 Why these are best: Discovery models serve families and adventurers. These motors balance brand reliability, manageable weight, and horsepower efficiency, ensuring safe, enjoyable rides for U.S. waters.

Navigator – The Yacht Tender

• Navigator 250 (Max 6hp):

  Recommended motor: Honda BF2.3 (2.3hp, 4-stroke)

  At just 30.8 lbs, this is one of the lightest gas outboards available in the U.S. It’s easy to lift from yacht lockers and provides enough thrust for short, dry tender rides.

  Electric alternative: RemigoOne Neo — ultra-portable and virtually maintenance-free, perfect for clean storage aboard yachts.

• Navigator 300 (Max 10hp):

  Recommended motor: Suzuki DF6A (6hp, 4-stroke)

  A versatile motor with smooth throttle response and low fuel burn, perfect for longer tender trips when ferrying passengers or supplies.

👉 Why these are best: Yacht tenders need lightweight, compact motors that stow easily while ensuring reliability on every run. These outboards deliver on both convenience and performance.

Tactician – The Fishing Catamaran

• Tactician 350 (Max 6hp):

  Recommended motor: Suzuki DF6A (6hp, 4-stroke)

  Favored by anglers for its stability and precise throttle control. It’s also fuel-efficient, allowing long fishing days without carrying extra fuel.

  Electric alternative: Torqeedo 1103C — whisper-quiet, with instant torque and a weedless prop, letting anglers explore estuaries and lakes without disturbing fish.

👉 Why these are best: Fishing requires quiet maneuvering and fuel economy. These motors give anglers the perfect mix of range, silence, and control.

Choosing the Right Outboard Motor for Your True Kit Boat

For U.S. boaters, choosing the right outboard means balancing horsepower, portability, and local compliance. Families often prefer reliable gas outboards, while anglers and eco-conscious users are increasingly choosing electric.

With True Kit’s lightweight design, smaller motors often outperform expectations, making your time on the water efficient, safe, and enjoyable.

Always cross-check with USCG horsepower and safety regulations before upgrading, and consider local environmental restrictions in lakes or national parks.