Selecta 940 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

As a heavy-displacement motor vessel rather than a sailing yacht, the Selecta 940 does not utilize traditional sailing ratios such as Sail Area/Displacement. Instead, its performance is defined by its hull speed and the reliability of its modest diesel powerplant. Most models were equipped with four-cylinder marine diesels, such as the ubiquitous Peugeot Indenor or Mercedes OM636, providing a cruising speed of approximately 6 to 7 knots.

Handling is characterized by the significant inertia inherent in a steel hull weighing between 5 and 7 tons. The long keel provides excellent directional stability, making it easy to track straight in crosswinds, though the high freeboard can create windage challenges during slow-speed docking. Technical specifications from Dutch maritime archives suggest the boat's hard-chine design offers high initial stability, making it a "stiff" ride in choppy inland waters. Owners often report that the addition of a bow thruster—a common aftermarket upgrade—is essential for negotiating tight lock chambers or narrow marina berths given the single-screw configuration.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Selecta 940 was most commonly produced in the "Achterkajuit" (AK) layout, which maximizes private sleeping quarters by placing the primary cabin at the stern. This configuration creates a distinct separation between the living areas: a forward V-berth or dinette conversion, a central salon with the primary helm station, and a dedicated aft cabin with two single berths or a small double.

The interior typically utilizes warm mahogany or teak joinery, which was the standard for Dutch yards of that era. Headroom is a significant selling point; the 940 usually offers roughly 1.90 meters (6'3") of clearance in the main salon, a feat for a vessel under 10 meters. The "OK" (Open Kuip) variant is the primary sibling model; it replaces the aft cabin with a large, self-draining cockpit at the same level as the salon, favoring outdoor socializing over total berth count. Another sibling, the Selecta 1000, utilized a slightly stretched version of the same hull to provide a larger galley and an additional head compartment.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Selecta 940 must prioritize a structural assessment of the steel hull. As these vessels are now several decades old, the integrity of the plate thickness—particularly at the waterline and in the "deadwood" areas of the keel—is paramount.

• Hull Corrosion: Inspect the interior bilges for standing water, which can lead to "inside-out" corrosion. Pay close attention to the areas beneath the engine and the chain locker.
• Window Seals: The original aluminum-framed windows are known to develop leaks over time. Evidence of water staining on the interior wood paneling usually indicates that the seals or the frames themselves require re-bedding.
• Engine Cooling: Many Selecta 940s utilize "keel cooling" or "skin cooling," where the engine coolant circulates through channels welded to the hull. Buyers should check for sediment buildup in these channels, which can lead to overheating in warmer waters.
• Deck Integrity: While the decks are steel, many were fitted with teak overlays. If the teak is original, it may be reaching the end of its life, potentially hiding rust spots on the steel deck underneath.

The Verdict

The Selecta 940 remains a steadfast choice for those seeking a traditional, "low and slow" cruising experience on inland waterways. Its steel construction and simple mechanical systems make it an approachable project for DIY-inclined owners.

Pros

• Robust steel construction provides a sense of security in locks and busy canals.
• Excellent interior volume and headroom for a 31-foot vessel.
• Economical fuel consumption at displacement speeds.
• The AK layout provides excellent privacy for two couples or a family.

Cons

• High maintenance requirements typical of older steel hulls (painting and rust prevention).
• Significant windage can make maneuvering difficult for inexperienced skippers without a bow thruster.
• Vintage engines may require specialized knowledge to source parts (e.g., Peugeot Indenor components).