Why Outboard Motor Choice Matters
Selecting the right outboard motor isn’t just about speed — it’s about safety, efficiency, and maximising performance. The wrong motor can cause strain on your boat, increase fuel consumption, or even breach local safety regulations.
In New Zealand and Australia, Maritime NZ and Transport for NSW (along with state maritime authorities) enforce horsepower and safety rules for small craft. Choosing a motor within the recommended specs ensures you stay compliant while enjoying safe boating adventures.
Key Factors to Consider
- Horsepower & Capacity – Stay within your boat’s rated maximum HP (clearly marked on True Kit models).
- Weight – Lightweight motors maintain portability, critical for inflatable boats.
- Usage – Family cruising, fishing, or yacht tendering all call for different performance.
- Fuel Type – Petrol (reliable and powerful) vs electric (quiet and eco-friendly).
- Regulations – Always check Maritime NZ boating rules or Australian Maritime Safety Authority guidelines before upgrading.
Petrol vs Electric Outboards - How to decide?
- Petrol Outboards: Trusted brands like Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki are popular across AU & NZ. Petrol motors deliver consistent power and range, perfect for longer trips or heavier loads.
- Electric Outboards: Eco-conscious boaters are turning to Torqeedo, ePropulsion or Remigo Electric Outboards. They offer whisper-quiet rides and are ideal for lakes, harbours, and areas with environmental restrictions.
For more detail, check our review of a Torqeedo electric outboard.
Best Outboard Motors for True Kit Models
Discovery – Open-Bow Family & Adventure Boat
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Discovery 280 (Max 8hp):
Recommended motor: Honda BF5/BF8 (4-stroke)
The Honda BF5/BF8 strikes the perfect balance between power and portability. At just over 27kg for the 5HP, it’s easy to carry and mount, while still providing enough thrust to move a fully loaded Discovery 280 with passengers, pets, or picnic gear. Honda’s reputation for fuel efficiency and reliability makes it an ideal family-friendly option.
Electric alternative: ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus — lightweight, portable, and emission-free, great for quiet bays and eco-sensitive areas.
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Discovery 330 (Max 15hp):
Recommended motor: Yamaha F9.9 (9.9hp, 4-stroke)
The Yamaha F9.9 is widely regarded as one of the most dependable mid-range outboards. It offers smooth acceleration, making it perfect for beach launching, while its lightweight design (around 40kg) ensures the boat remains easy to handle. Its 9.9hp output gives families or adventure groups confidence on longer trips without maxing out fuel use.
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Discovery 400 (Max 20hp):
Recommended motor: Mercury 20hp EFI (4-stroke)
With a maximum rating of 20hp, the Discovery 400 benefits from extra horsepower when carrying more people, gear, or even towing a small tube for family fun. Mercury’s EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) technology ensures quick starts and efficient fuel burn, making it a top choice for adventurous families who want performance without compromise.
👉 Why these are best: The Discovery series is designed for families and adventure seekers. These motors combine reliable brands, manageable weight, and just the right power-to-boat-size ratio to keep trips safe, efficient, and enjoyable.
Navigator – The Yacht Tender
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Navigator 250 (Max 6hp):
Recommended motor: Honda BF2.3 (2.3hp, 4-stroke)
At under 14kg, the Honda BF2.3 is one of the lightest petrol outboards available, making it easy to lift in and out of yacht lockers. It provides just enough thrust for quick, dry rides between yacht and shore.
Electric alternative: RemigoOne Neo— compact, portable, and virtually maintenance-free, ideal for yacht owners who value quiet operation and clean storage, with a bigger drive than the Honda.
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Navigator 300 (Max 10hp):
Recommended motor: Suzuki DF6A (6hp, 4-stroke)
The Suzuki DF6A is powerful yet still manageable at about 24kg. It offers smooth, steady propulsion for longer tender runs, with excellent fuel economy — a big plus when you’re ferrying people and supplies to and from your yacht.
👉 Why these are best: Navigator tenders need motors that are compact, lightweight, and easy to store, without compromising on reliability. These outboards deliver steady performance and are simple for yacht owners to handle.
Tactician – The Fishing Catamaran
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Tactician 350 (Max 6hp):
Recommended motor: Suzuki DF6A (6hp, 4-stroke)
Anglers appreciate the DF6A’s light weight, portability, and smooth throttle control — perfect for steady maneuvering while fishing. It’s also extremely fuel-efficient, allowing for longer days on the water without worry.
Electric alternative: Torqeedo 1103C — whisper-quiet operation makes it ideal for sneaking into shallow estuaries or fishing spots where silence is key. Its instant torque and weedless prop ensure anglers aren’t disrupted mid-cast.
👉 Why these are best: Fishing requires stability and precision. These motors keep the Tactician agile, stable, and silent when needed, helping anglers get closer to the action without spooking fish.
Choosing the Best Outboard Motor for Your Inflatable Boat
For AU & NZ boaters, the right motor depends on how and where you plan to use your inflatable. Families often lean toward petrol reliability, while anglers and yacht owners are embracing electric for quiet, clean operation.
With True Kit’s lightweight design, even small motors deliver impressive performance. Always check your model’s maximum HP, follow local maritime safety rules, and choose a motor that fits your lifestyle.
