Selva 630 Emotion

Selva 630 Emotion

115 XV Selva (Yamaha)

Selva has chosen to complement their range of semi-rigid boats with slightly more sophisticated units from the Marlin shipyard. On the 630, pairing it with the XSR version of the 115 hp Selva proves to be an excellent choice.

Emotion Line is the new series created by Selva Marine to enter the high-end semi-rigid segment. For this, the Italian manufacturer has selected another renowned Italian builder for their elegant and well-equipped inflatables: Marlin Boat. This brand has also been present on the French market for several years. The three models currently offered, with the Emotion Line 630 in our test being nearly midway between the 540 and 790, come from Marlin's Dynamic series, which serves as their entry-level range. In terms of pricing, the package offered by Selva with the 115 XSR is within a reasonable range, especially considering this high-performance version of the original Yamaha engine. The boat also features satisfactory standard equipment, including hydraulic steering, an enormous front sunbathing area (length 210 cm), and especially two very long bathing platforms flanking the engine. To avoid hindering circulation, the bathing ladder is carefully integrated into a molded housing. While the Sport Line and Evolution Line ranges, already marketed by Selva, are of very good manufacturing quality, certain details such as the gelcoating inside the storage compartments, the hatch supports with hydraulic pistons, or the presence of a glove box on the helm position, show that the Emotion Line offers slightly higher standards. With 27 years of experience, the Italian manufacturer did not hesitate to include numerous storage compartments. The largest is naturally located under the rear bench, which also houses the battery, fuel filter, and two cockpit drains secured with plastic valves. The robust reinforcements indicate the hull’s strength, capable of handling the maximum power of 150 horsepower. To improve circulation to the bathing platforms, Marlin developed a tilting backrest that easily folds backwards, though this does not replace the practicality of a side passage. The upholstery is very attractive and is attached to the polyester structure with snap buttons. During our test, even facing headwinds, no cushions detached. The tilting backrest principle was also used on the helm bench for comfortable seating or standing. However, the console and windshield lack a bit of height to adequately shield from the wind. Pushing our test boat in all directions, we experienced no spray whatsoever. Backed by patents, the hull designer multiplied the longitudinal strakes to optimize both performance and passage through choppy waters. The strength of this boat is undoubtedly its natural overall balance and ease of wave-cutting, even with unruly waves at times. The 115 XSR, eager and sporty, demonstrates a lively temperament by quickly climbing into high rpm. Its limits seem hard to reach, and at nearly 6,200 rpm, it propels this hull to 38 knots without any signs of strain. The modifications made to the mapping by Selva Marine's technical team appear particularly effective, likely benefiting from their extensive competitive experience.

There are also no issues with the steering, which is smooth, precise, and very efficient, even when pushing the boat's limits. In tight turns, we did not notice any skidding, thanks to a hull with a pronounced V-shape and a notable inner trim, but fully manageable. At rest, with three people onboard plus full water and fuel tanks, the rear part of the pontoons touches the water, ensuring stability that will be appreciated at anchor.

While the layout of this semi-rigid is quite traditional, its sailing capabilities are rather spectacular. The builder seems to have found the perfect compromise between a high-performance and comfortable hull. Thanks to this superb hull, the XSR version, a boosted version of the Selva 115 horsepower, can demonstrate all its potential.