Selva 630 Emotion

Selva 630 Emotion

115 XV Selva (yamaha)

Selva has chosen to expand its range of semi-rigid boats with slightly more sophisticated units coming from the Marlin shipyard. On the 630, pairing with the XSR version of the 115 hp Selva is an excellent choice.

Emotion Line is the new series created by Selva Marine to enter the high-end semi-rigid segment. To do this, the Italian motor manufacturer selected another renowned Italian manufacturer for its stylish and well-equipped inflatable boats: Marlin Boat. Marlin has been present on the French market for several years as well. The three models currently offered, with the Emotion Line 630 in our test sitting nearly midway between the 540 and 790, come from Marlin’s Dynamic series, which serves as their entry level. Regarding prices, the package offered by Selva, with the 115 XSR, falls within a reasonable range, especially considering this heavily powered version of the original Yamaha engine block. The boat also features satisfactory standard equipment, including hydraulic steering, a large sun deck at the bow (length 210 cm), and especially two very long bathing platforms framing the engine. To avoid hindering movement, the boarding ladder is carefully integrated into a recessed compartment. Although the Sport Line and Evolution Line ranges, already marketed by Selva, are of very satisfactory manufacturing quality, it is evident from details such as the gel coat inside the lockers, the hatch supports using rams, or the presence of a glove box on the helm station, that the Emotion Line offers slightly superior features. With 27 years of experience, the Italian builder did not skimp on storage space either. The largest storage is obviously located under the rear bench, where the battery, fuel filter, and two cockpit drains secured by plastic valves are also installed from a technical point of view. The heavy reinforcements indicate the hull's resistance level, which can easily handle the maximum power of 150 horsepower. To improve circulation to the bathing platforms, Marlin developed a backrest that can be easily tilted backward, although this does not replace the practicality of a small side passage. The upholstery is very attractive and is held onto the polyester structure with snap buttons. During our test, even against the wind, no cushion detached. The tilting backrest principle was also adopted for the helm bench, allowing for comfortable seated or standing driving. However, the console and windshield could use a bit more height to provide better wind protection. When pushing our test boat in all directions, we did not encounter the slightest spray. Thanks to patents, the hull designer multiplied the seams to optimize both performance and passage through rough sea. The strength of this boat is undoubtedly its natural overall balance and its ease in cutting waves, even when they are chaotic. The 115 XSR, eager and sporty in character, shows a temperament that accelerates very quickly. Its limits seem difficult to reach, and at nearly 6,200 rpm, it propels this hull at 38 knots without any signs of struggle. The modifications made to the mapping by Selva Marine's technical team seem particularly effective, with their extensive competition experience likely contributing to these results.

No issues either with the steering, which is smooth, precise, and very effective, even when pushing the boat to its limits. During sharp turns, we did not notice the slightest hint of slipping, with a hull that, given its pronounced V shape, adopts a marked inward tilt but remains entirely controllable. At rest, and with three people on board plus full water and fuel tanks, the rear part of the floats contacts the water to ensure stability when anchored.

Although the layout of this semi-rigid boat is fairly conventional, its navigation capabilities are quite spectacular. The manufacturer seems to have found the perfect compromise between a performing and comfortable hull. Thanks to this superb hull, the XSR version of the boosted Selva 115 horsepower can fully showcase its talents.