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Gemini Legacy 35

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: April 2, 2013

In 1995, multihull sailor, designer, and boatbuilder Tony Smith made a splash with the launch of his Gemini 105M. Thirty-three feet long and with a beam of just 14 feet, the Gemini was large enough for serious cruising, comfortable enough to live aboard, had retractable daggerboards for upwind sailing and gunkholing in the shallows, and could fit snuggly within a conventional boat slip. Plus, the little cat had staying power. Over the ensuing 17 years, his company, Performance Cruising, located on a creek just outside of downtown Annapolis, Maryland, built more than 1,100 of the 105M, an impressive run considering that most production builders change models seemingly with the seasons.

Now his daughter, Laura Smith Hershfeld—who in 2009 became president of the company that’s now called Gemini Catamarans —anticipates that the newly launched Legacy 35 will enjoy a similar reception.

I boarded the brand-new model on a blustery Chesapeake Bay morning following the U.S. Sailboat Show in Annapolis last fall. It was a heck of a day for a sail and a good morning to be on a dry, sure-footed cat that took the gusts in stride. I’d hitched a ride out on the Zodiac used by our Boat of the Year judges, so the Legacy 35 was already under way with the square-topped main hoisted when I climbed aboard and was greeted by Gemini’s Robin Hodges. As the inflatable roared away, we rolled out the 120-percent genoa, set on a Hood furler, and we were off, too.

Judging from the breeze, we wouldn’t need the code zero set on the optional Seldén sprit. With the wind hovering near the mid teens and gusting higher, we were quite comfortable with boat speeds that ranged from 5 knots up into the 7s, depending on the point of sail. The Lewmar steering and twin rudders were smooth to the touch as we tracked along and then tacked. If there was one thing I might’ve wished for, it would’ve been another winch at the helm station when we jibed onto starboard tack. Both the mainsheet and starboard jib sheet are led through stoppers and share the same winch, making it a bit of a dance to center the main and cast off the genoa simultaneously. Robin said they were working on a solution.

• More: 2011+ , 31 - 40 ft , catamaran , Coastal Cruising , gemini , multihull , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
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Are Gemini Catamarans Good? A Review of Popular Models!

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Are you interested in Gemini Catamarans, but you aren’t sure if they are up to par? Looking for my next boat i have done some extensive research into Geminis, here’s what I found!

Gemini catamarans are great boats, depending on what you are looking for. If you want a daytime cruiser, the Freestyle 37 or the Freestyle 339 Power are great options. If you want to take longer trips, the Gemini 105Mc and the Gemini Legacy 35 are ideal due to their multiple cabin designs. 

Next, we’ll go over the new models of Gemini boats, including one older model that is still regularly sold pre-owned. We’ll also discuss each boat’s pros and cons and whether or not the boats are suitable for you and your needs. 

Types of Gemini Catamarans – Old Models

The Gemini 105Mc Design Touch was one of Gemini’s most popular models. However, it is no longer in production. While no new ones are being made, you can still buy one used. Additionally, this boat is the predecessor of the new Gemini Legacy 35, so it’s essential to understand their differences. We’ll go over this boat in detail below. 

Gemini 105Mc Design Touch

This cruising catamaran has been one of the best-selling single-design cats since 1980. This isn’t surprising, considering this boat’s spacious layout and sound design. Every time you sail on this boat, you’ll feel safe and sound with its practically designed platform and kick-up rudders. While this boat is no longer being produced, many boat owners seek out used versions because of its amazing style and performance.  

Perks of the 105Mc Design Touch

Hull design ensures better performance.

The hulls of this boat are slim and teardrop-shaped. This helps ensure that the drag will remain at a minimum. Additionally, the hull design allows for more leeway when you’re under sail. Even more, the hull has a kick-up centerboard which enhances the boat’s windward pointing abilities, allowing for a better sailing experience. 

Raise Rudders for Shallow Waters

Inadvertently running aground is one of boat owners’ biggest nightmares. However, with the 105Mc Design Touch, it’s unlikely you’ll ever meet this terrible fate. This catamaran has a raised rudder design, ensuring that you can smoothly cruise into waters as shallow as 2 feet (61.0 cm) without hitting the bottom. 

Low Center for Added Safety 

Most boats today have a beam that measures about 50% of the length of the ship. However, the 105Mc Design Touch is unique in that its tiny beam only measures about 40% of the boat’s length. While both beam sizes have their advantages, the shorter beam on this catamaran makes it have a low center of gravity, ensuring that it remains upright, stable, and highly safe. 

Reasonably Priced 

This reliable boat is as functional as it is affordable. You won’t have to spend an arm and a leg to purchase this beauty. This is especially true if you get it used, which is your only option nowadays! 

What Are the Downsides of the 105Mc Design Touch?

Many users loved this boat and feel that it was one of Gemini’s best models yet. However, it does have a couple of flaws: 

• It only has one head . Only having one bathroom can be incredibly inconvenient, especially if you are overnighting with several people. For a boat with three cabins, it would be nice to have another head. 
• Its soft decks require maintenance . The decks are balsa-cored, meaning water can harm them over time. That means you’ll need to maintain the deck, especially around hatches, to keep the boat in tip-top shape. 

Specifications of the 105Mc Design Touch

• Overall Length: 34 feet (10.4 m)
• Beam: 14 feet (4.3 m)
• Displacement: 9,600 lb (4354.5 kg)
• Fuel capacity: 36 gallons (136.28 liters)
• Water capacity: 60 gallons (227.13 liters)
• Three cabins 

Is This Boat Right For Me?

The 105Mc Design Touch is a wonderful option for many people. This boat is especially great for: 

• It’s ideal for first-time catamaran owners with its low price and safe design. 
• Great for overnight weekend vacations with friends and family (if you can handle sharing one bathroom!) 

Types of Gemini Catamarans – New Models 

Gemini Freestyle 37

The Gemini Freestyle 37 has a flexible design that can accommodate your every desire. Whether you want a boat that is ideal for day-charters, family outings, or luxurious business cruises, the Freestyle has a layout for you.

Although this boat has a flexible and updated design, it still has the essence of the older Gemini 105Mc and the Legacy 35, providing you with new features you love and some of the old ones too! 

Perks of the Freestyle 37

Design is ideal for charters .

The Freestyle 37 has an incredibly flexible design, permitting you to set up your charter boat with all of the features you need. For example, you can choose to get this boat with a second head instead of the queen-sized cabin to accommodate “his and her” bathrooms, which is a must-have feature for most chartered tours. 

Additionally, you can alter the layout of the boat to accommodate your needs. Suppose you want to take out a large group of people to go snorkeling or sightseeing. In this case, you could arrange the deck with bench seats to fit as many people as possible. 

However, if you’d rather you use the catamaran to cater high-end parties or business excursions, then you could install chaise lounges, an outdoor galley, and a wraparound bar instead. So, no matter what kind of events you plan to hold on your catamaran, the Freestyle 37 has the perfect layout for you! 

Inexpensive Base Price

This boat has a low base price, permitting you to get the ship for a reasonable cost , then customize it based on your budget and needs. Additionally, it has a low cost of operation, which means you can actually make money from your charters instead of having to throw all of your hard earned cash right back into the boat. 

Even better, this boat allows you to easily change the furniture and outboard, ensuring that the boat always looks new and fresh without having to switch boats completely! 

Has a “Green” Version for Environmentalists 

One of this boat’s most significant advantages is that it accommodates an electric engine and solar panels, which are more environmentally friendly than diesel-run engines. Even if you aren’t an environmentalist, going green can save you money by lowering your operation cost. So, by selecting the green option, you’ll be protecting the environment and your wallet. It sounds like a win-win to me! 

What Are the Downsides of the Freestyle 37?

While this boat is an excellent option for a lot of people, it isn’t for everyone. Let’s take a look at the disadvantages of this catamaran below: 

• Not ideal for overnight trips with more than two people. This catamaran is an incredible sunset or daytime cruiser due to its open deck plan. However, it only has one cabin that can accommodate two people, so if you’re looking for something you, your friends, and family can take a weekend getaway trip on, this isn’t the boat for you. 
• Open design is not ideal for rough open waters. The open design of this boat is excellent for casual cruises around the bay. However, if you plan to take a trip across any serious body of water, this cat offers little protection. 

Specifications of the Freestyle 37

• Overall Length: 38 feet (11.6 feet) 
• Beam: 14 feet (4.3 m) 
• Displacement: 7500 lbs (3401.9 kg)
• Fuel capacity: 56 gallons (211.98 liters)
• One queen cabin (optional)
• One or two heads

This fun catamaran is an excellent choice for many sailors. We’ll go over this boats primary uses below so you can determine whether or not it’s the right choice for you: 

• Ideal for daytime cruises. 
• Great if you want to use it as a charter boat for sightseeing or events. 
• Perfect if you want an open platform that gives you the ability to “freestyle.” 
• It’s an excellent party boat with an open deck plan and seating area in the bow. 

Gemini Freestyle 339 Power

If you love to go fast, the innovative Freestyle 339 Power catamaran will give you the extra “oomph” you’ve been searching for. This boat has the original Freestyle’s stability and expansiveness but with a power-packed motor to quickly get you to your destination. If you are looking for a spacious, reliable, and speedy day cruiser, the Freestyle 339 Power is the ideal choice for you. 

Perks of the Freestyle 339

Dual engines for a faster ride .

This new Freestyle design is faster than ever before. It is powered by two Suzuki DF90A motors that allow for a typical cruising speed of 15 knots or a maximum speed of 22.5 knots, even when you have seven people aboard! This speedy ride will let you get where you want to go in no time. 

Incredibly Stable Design 

Unlike the previous model, the new Freestyle 339 has stability keels positioned behind the hulls, allowing her to draw only 18 inches (45.7 cm). Even more, the bows of this boat were revamped to include extensions. This permits the cat to lift up when its power increases. These features also enhance the boat’s stability, making her steadier than ever before. 

However, don’t just take our word for it! The Catamaran Company posted a review of the Freestyle 339 on YouTube. They were astounded by how smooth the ride was even when the boat faced choppy waves, an outward current, and wake from a passing ship. To check out this review for yourself, click the link below:

Versatile and Roomy 

The Freestyle 339’s helm is positioned in the front and center of the boat, giving you more space in your cockpit than in the previous model. This will provide you with plenty of room so you can invite all of your friends and loved ones on board your vessel for a day of boating fun. 

Additionally, the front of the vessel has two large bench seats where you and all of your friends can relax and enjoy the view. It also has an easy pop-out coffee table where you can enjoy a morning cup of jo or rest your drinks in the evening time. 

What Are the Downsides of the Freestyle 339?

Below, we’ll go over some of the potential downsides of the Freestyle 339: 

• It’s entirely motor-powered . If you love traditional catamarans with both sails and motors, this may not be the boat for you. The freestyle 339 is solely a power cat, with no sailing option available. 
• Not ideal for long trips . This catamaran only has one cabin and one head, making it great for daytime cruises but not ideal for more extended vacations unless just two people are traveling. Additionally, the boat doesn’t have a real shower. Instead, you have to use the extendable sink in the head to rinse off. This is fine for short trips but unideal for longer excursions. 

Specifications of the Freestyle 339 

• Overall length: 41 feet (12.5 m) 
• Hull beam: 14 feet (4.3 m) 
• Displacement: 10,000 lbs (4535.9 kg) when loaded 
• One optional cabin 
• Twin Suzuki 90 HP Outboards (larger 115 Suzuki engines available)

This boat is perfect for some uses but not so ideal for others. We’ll go over the ideal functions of this boat so you can determine whether or not it’s the right choice for you: 

• Perfect for daytime cruising. 
• Ideal if you enjoy the look of a catamaran but the power of a motorboat. 
• It’s a great “party boat” due to the open and customizable design. 

Gemini Legacy 35

This family-friendly cruising catamaran is stylish yet affordable. It is also effortless to maneuver, permitting you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. With its 34 inch (86.4 cm) draft, it’ll be easy for you to pull this boat close to your favorite beaches. 

Perks of the Legacy 35 

Provides a stable sailing experience .

The Legacy 35 provides a level ride with little to no heeling. The steering and twin rudders are smooth and easily adjustable as you move across the water. 

Affordable Price 

The Legacy 35 is approximately the same price as a mid-sized monohull, yet it has an interior space that is larger than that of most 40 foot (12.2 m) monohulls, making it a great bargain. So, if you want catamaran space for monohull costs, the Legacy 35 is a perfect choice.  

Reasonably Sized Beam 

This small 14 foot (4.3 m) beam makes the boat easy to move anywhere in the country. No special accommodations are required. Similarly, hauling the boat out of the water is a breeze since all you’ll need is a standard travel lift. Even better, you can keep this cat in a standard-sized slip, saving you time and money looking for a larger one. 

Different Layout Options Depending on Your Needs 

This boat traditionally comes with three cabins and one head. The head is located in the aft hull, and the owner’s cabin is located in the front, fitted with a queen-sized bed. However, if this layout doesn’t suit your fancy, you also have the option of getting a boat with two cabins and two heads. This layout would have a queen bed in the front of the ship and a double bed in the back. 

What Are the Downsides of the Legacy 35?

• Some users think it’s too heavy . Some Gemini boaters felt the Legacy 35 gained too much weight compared to its predecessor, the 105Mc Design Touch. They didn’t like how the added weight caused the boat to drag. 
• The boat needs another winch at the helm station . According to sailor Mark Pillsbury , the Legacy 35 would be better if it had another winch at the helm station, making tacks easier. 

Specifications of the Legacy 35  

• Overall Length: 35 feet (11.0 m)
• Displacement: 9,800 lbs (4445.2 kg)
• Up to three cabins 
• Up to two heads 

The Legacy 35 is roomy and affordable, making it an excellent option for many boaters. Let’s discuss exactly what this boat is best for below: 

• It’s ideal for weekend trips due to its multi-cabin design. 
• It’s an affordable option for first-time catamaran owners. 

Are Gemini Catamarans Right For You?

Gemini catamarans are safe, stable, and reasonably priced, making them ideal for beginners. 

The Gemini Freestyle 37 and Freestyle 339 Power are highly versatile, making them perfect for families, charter boats, or luxurious cruises. Users love these boats’ versatility and stability.

The Gemini 105Mc Design Touch and Legacy 35 are also great day cruisers. However, their additional cabins make them ideal for longer excursions as well. These boats are safe, easy to maneuver, and stable, making them perfect for family vacations. 

While these are great boats, they aren’t for everyone. If you’re in the market for a luxury catamaran with all of the bells and whistles, then Gemini cats likely won’t satisfy your needs. Similarly, these boats tend to be better for shorter sails than long-term sabbaticals. So, if you plan to sail around the world in your catamaran, you may want to choose a different brand. 

Final Thoughts 

Gemini catamarans are safe, stable, and reasonably priced, making them great all-around boats. Their freestyle line is ideal for day cruises or to be used as “party boats” due to their customizable design. Their Design Touch and Legacy boats can be used as cruisers or for extended vacations, depending on your needs. All around, these are fabulous boats worth looking into! 

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Gemini 105 Review

• Post author By River B
• Post date October 24, 2020
• 3 Comments on Gemini 105 Review

No catamaran discussion would be complete without a nod to the 34’ Gemini 105M and 105 MC line of catamarans, created by designer Tony Smith. From modest beginnings in 1996, the Gemini 105 has become one of the most popular domestic-built catamarans in the United States, with over 1200 hulls splashed.

Gemini Catamaran History

Originally built in Maryland, the Gemini 105 model began with the 105M (meaning 10.5 meters) in 1995 and then a design change in 2004 to the 105MC, some notable differences being the extended cockpit cover to allow for a full enclosure and a slightly taller mast (while still remaining ICW-friendly). In fact, the “C” in the 105MC stands for “convertible,” likening the cockpit to that of a sports car.

Gemini production moved to FL in 2009 after the 2008 financial meltdown. In 2011, Gemini offered the Limited-Edition Design Touch TM models, whose upgrades included cherry veneer finishes, Corian countertops, and ducted air conditioning. In a partnership with Hunter Marine and a generous buyout from The Catamaran Company, Gemini was able to live on under the direction of Smith’s daughter, Laura building the 105 until 2012. Catalina on the west coast for Florida took over production of the Legacy 35 in 2015, which is still in production today.

While the Gemini 105 hasn’t won any official awards, according to SAIL Magazine, “[i]f there ever was a sub-40ft cat that should be included in an imaginary ’Catamaran Hall of Fame,’ it would have to be the Gemini 105.”

The Gemini 105s were designed to be affordable, compact, relatively easy vessels for sailors new to catamarans. In the performance – comfort — cost trifecta, there is a definite favor towards cost, which can equate to quality issues. However, Gemini owners swear by their performance and aspects of comfort.

Let’s see what they highlight.

• Narrow Beam. With a beam of 14’, the Gemini can tuck into a standard slip, lowering the cost of ownership and reducing haulout hassles that other catamaran owners sometimes face.
• Shallow Draft. With kick-up centerboards and rudders, and outboards (or drive legs) that can raise up, Gemini owners can anchor in as little as 2’ of water. Crowded beach anchorages are seldom an issue for these vessels, which can tuck in well away from other deeper-draft cats and monohulls alike.
• Livability . The 3-cabin layout provides both comfort and privacy and the wet head is huge for a small boat. The C-shaped settee converts into a large bed for passages or extra guests. The large, propane-powered refrigerator provides ample space for food and beverages without draining batteries. With 6’ of headroom inside and up to 6’7” of headroom in the cockpit, guests can enjoy the panoramic windows without stooping.
• Speed . While the Gemini 105 won’t be breaking any circumnavigation records, for her size, she’s fast—able to achieve 40-50% of wind speeds and the ability to point at about 50 degrees (apparent) to wind. According to Mark Baummer, on SV Argo, the Gemini 105 can easily hit speeds of 8 knots and he regularly logs double-digit speeds. More on why that may be in a moment.
• Engine Accessibility. Whether equipped with an outboard or the Westerbeke 30b3 diesel, accessibility is far and above that of most other smaller (and even some larger) catamarans on the market.

Gemini 105 Hull Construction

The Gemini 105 generally took about 5-7 days to produce, utilizing vinylester resins to bond a barrier coat of 1.5-ounce mat. Next comes two layers of 18 x 15 Cofab mat. The foredeck and cabin top are cored with 1/2″ end-grain balsa, as are cockpit areas in which there are no deck fittings.

The hull-deck joint is a shoebox design bonded with something the designer calls “black poly putty, which cures fast, using a chemical process, rather than an air-dry process. The deck is then secured with stainless steel fasteners on 5″ centers. The joint is covered by a gunwale guard.

Performance Factors

Catamaran designers utilize a broad number of theories in their attempts to achieve performance. For Gemini, this means a 9:1 length to width ratio, with a shallow and fat tear-drop shape intended to increase both speed and load-carrying capacity. Although, with only 18” of bridgedeck clearance, you’ll want to utilize that space sparingly, or risk losing any performance benefits you may have.

Centerboards and sail plan contribute to the cat’s ability to sail closer to the wind than most production catamarans out there.

Is the Gemini 105 a Serious Ocean Cruiser?

Tony Smith and his son Neil took a Gemini 105 through the northern Atlantic passage from Florida to England on a 23-day trip where they encountered 45-knot winds and 35-foot waves . Neither felt unsafe, but they also swore they would never make the trip again!

SV Tere Hau Nui was a 2003 Gemini 105MC that was sailed across the Pacific to Fiji. Again she was sold via our for sale by owner services in 2012. The new owner sailed her to Australia where she unfortunately dragged onto a rocky shore . The new owner, Brian, bought her back from the insurance company and has fixed her up. He splashed her again in 2020.

SV Slapdash is a 2004 Gemini 105Mc that circumnavigated, albeit with reported frequent stops to perform repairs and modifications. The owner sold by advertising on this website in 2012.

Cruising “celebrity” Carolyn Shearlock (of The Boat Galley fame), owner of SV Barefoot Gal, a Gemini 105M, cruises Florida and the Bahamas, but says she wouldn’t take the vessel offshore.

Mark Baummer, owner of SV Argo , sails his 1999 Gemini 105M in the Chesapeake Bay and offshore to New England, says he would feel comfortable taking the Gemini offshore. He confirms the boat is noisy when underway, saying, “it’s annoying, but you get used to it.” He also noted a great deal of flexibility in the hulls and the main bulkhead pieces working against each other. After a conversation with the designer, he was assured that this is “normal and helps to relieve racking stress on the boat.”

Gemini 105 owner John Grossenbacher says he crossed the Gulf Stream with 18-20 kt NE winds and 4-6′ seas. He reports sailing at 8-9 kts while cooking dinner with a glass of wine sitting on countertop—the classic catamaran marketing brochure image, right?

Like any vessel, it’s really a matter of personal preference, seamanship capability, and the stomach to put up with the chaos that the ocean can throw at you. For my money, I’d stick to coastal cruising on the Gemini. But that’s just me.

The Wish List

Gemini 105 owners love their boats, but there are always things that they wish were different or done better. Here’s what they have to say about that:

• The Gelcoat – gelcoat crazing is common on the Gemini 105
• Soft, leaky decks – as you’ll recall, the decks are balsa-cored, so water intrusion can take its toll on these vessels, so be proactive about re-bedding deck hardware, particularly around hatches and stays.
• Close – quarter maneuverability – while Carolyn Shearlock finds the Gemini 105M to perform better in close quarters than her Tayana 47, many find the Gemini, with its single engine, to be a bit squirrely in tight situations.
• Slightly Under-canvassed – under light winds, the Gemini has trouble, but over 10 knots and she sails beautifully.
• Forward Visibility – from the cockpit, the view forward is slightly challenging.
• Centerboard Rot – the original centerboards are prone to rot and worms. Baummer’s centerboards both fractured while on an offshore passage (the boat was fine, but didn’t point as well, as to be expected).
• Westerbeke 30b3 – this diesel gets mixed reviews and the company that services the drive leg have gone out of business and there is no clear source for parts.Many owners opt to replace the diesel with an outboard.
• Slamming – there may be no clear answer to this issue given the overall design, but some wish for a wave diverter under the bridgedeck to break up the waves.
• Inaccessible Wiring and Plumbing – with wiring looms attached to the liner prior to attachment of the liner to the hull, it’s virtually impossible to access without some level of destruction.

As these boats are not being produced anymore, these are some things to think about if you plan a refit. Many owners like that the boat is easy to work on (perhaps save the wiring), and at the size of the vessel, those who are handy can do a refit on the (relative) cheap.

The Bottom Line

Described by its designer as “the couple’s catamaran,” the Gemini 105 models are designed to be an introductory catamaran for former mono-hullers. Those who are looking for a coastal-cruising catamaran on a monohull budget might want to give the Gemini 105 some consideration.

• Tags Catamaran Interviews , Catamaran Reviews

River is a licensed USCG Captain with a lifetime of experience on the water. From the San Francisco Bay to the South Pacific, blue water to clear water, he’s sailed a wide variety of catamarans and crawled around in the bilges of more than he can count. You can follow his misadventures at www.tilted.life.

3 replies on “Gemini 105 Review”

I need an owners manual for this boat. Specifically the page that lists all the line lengths and guages.

The boat is in Panamá.

These are from the Gemini Owners Group .

Gemini 105 M Owners Manual Gemini 105 MC Owners Manual

I’d like to replace my sails, what are the sail dimensions for a Gemini M105?

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• Sailboat Reviews

Gemini 105Mc

This is the third version of an already thoughtful design that tony smith has been tweaking for years. it's a spacious, stable platform for a fast-cruising couple..

Tony Smith’s most recent design is the third iteration of a 34-foot catamaran that his company, Performance Cruising, Inc., of Annapolis, first introduced to the American market in the 1990s. The result of Smith’s continued tinkering, the 105Mc, is, he says faster than the original. Since this is our first review of the Gemini cat in any version, we can’t compare. But we can report that this boat is fast for a cruising catamaran. It’s also evidence that when a builder is willing to incorporate new and sometimes expensive ideas in design development, the results can be worth the investment.

Company History Tony Smith is a British expatriate who, with wife Susan, formed Performance Cruising in 1980. Following graduation from the University of East Anglia with a degree in engineering, he studied the mechanics of boat performance while participating in singlehanded races, including the first 2,100-mile Round Britain race, in which he finished fourth.

He began his boatbuilding career by constructing a 24-foot Piver trimaran in a shed in England. Then, in 1969, he developed a method of integrating foam coring with fiberglass, and produced the Telstar, a 26-foot, folding trimaran. During a 10-year run, 300 of the boats were sold worldwide. Along the way, he also was involved in the construction of 30- to 70-foot custom yachts.

Eventually emigrating to the US, he introduced the Telstar to the US market. Following the loss of the molds in a fire in 1981, he re-emerged on the scene with the design for a new catamaran, appropriately called the Phoenix, the first Gemini.

In 1993, the company launched the Gemini 3400, the first catamaran with a lifting underhung rudder system. It was eventually modified and reintroduced as the 105M, and the 105Mc is the most recent upgrade.

With 800 boats on the water, the company claims to be the best-selling catamaran manufacturer in the US. In 2002 the company’s 20 employees built and sold 54 boats, valued at $8 million, in a 16,000-square-foot factory. An additional 25,000 square feet of production space are currently under construction.

Six dealers are located in Florida, Maryland, California and Washington. Though the company also sells directly to customers, there’s no price advantage, and a connection to a local dealer would be an advantage if warranty issues arise.

A prototype for a new Telstar trimaran is undergoing sea trials, and can be seen on the Performance Cruising website.

Appearance/Design Smith’s perspective on sailing and yacht design fits the definition of a multihull advocate. From his standpoint, sailing is about speed, comfort, and stability.

From an aesthetic standpoint, comparisons of a 35-foot catamaran to a cruising monohull are usually akin to comparing a coupe to a delivery van. Though both may be designed to accomplish the same purposes, the execution varies greatly. Many cruising multihulls present a slab-sided appearance, and boxlike profiles with cabins extending high above deck level.

The 105Mc does not. When viewed from the quarter, the Mc has a relatively sporty appearance, even with the addition of a cockpit canopy that raises the boat’s profile. Viewed on the centerline, there’s no question she’s a cat, though the unsightly strakes of the 3400 version have been eliminated.

Smith says Gemini catamarans are designed for “serious ocean cruising,” adding that “a 23-day passage with son Neil across the North Atlantic opened my eyes to her capabilities.”

During the passage, he says, the pair encountered 45-knot winds and 35-foot waves, but never felt they were in harm’s way, and were comfortably ensconced in the cockpit wearing layers of fleece.

As most readers know, voyaging in multihulls offshore demands some different sailing techniques and priorities than sailing ballasted monohulls. The high initial stability of a multihull works both ways: the boat will mightily resist capsizing, but if it does go over and invert, it will be virtually impossible to right again without the assistance of a large ship with a cargo crane. Assuming the essential integrity of the hulls, the platform will be stable, and the crew will live in an inverted world pending rescue. However, very few owners of cruising multihulls have the occasion to take their boats into conditions that seriously challenge their initial stability, and (North Atlantic deliveries by designers notwithstanding) this Mc will usually be sailed in coastal or near-coastal waters.

The Mc has the same basic dimensions as the 3400. Note that the weights published in the company’s sales literature and on its website are at odds with each other. Dimensions in this article are accurate, Smith says: “The 105M and the Mc are the same weight—9,600 pounds. We realized after our trans-Atlantic trip that the weights we had given for the 105M were too low. We finally bought a pair of scales!

“The mast on the Mc is a foot taller than the 105M, and has a 1′ crane.” The mainsail now carries a large roach and full battens, increasing mainsail area from 260 to 340 square feet, a hefty jump. The 150% genoa carries 350 square feet.

A new option is a flat-cut overlapping genoa known in the multihull world as a “screecher.” This 490-square-foot sail produces spinnaker performance without adding a pole and guys.

The furling drum for the screecher tack can move athwartships on a curved track that is mounted at the prows of both hulls and across the bowsprit/anchor platform, forward of where the anchor is dropped through. This movable tack allows more flexibility with sheeting angles, especially when attempting to work to weather.

The cut of the sail allows it to be sailed to within 50 degrees of the apparent wind, and the tack arrangement doesn’t get in the way of the ground tackle.

Smith describes the hull shapes, introduced in 1995 on the 105M model, as “revolutionary in the multihull industry.” They have a 9:1 length to width ratio.

“They closely resemble a racing monohull,” Smith says. “They are shallow and fat, with a teardrop shape to produce more speed and increase load-carrying capacity. Compared to the 3400, narrower shapes allow hulls to be moved outward to produce stability without increasing beam.”

The foredeck has 39″ of clearance at the bow. (Note that the builders refer to the deck area forward of the cabin as the “bridge deck,” but we’ll use “foredeck” as we don’t want to confuse it with the bit of decking often found between the cockpit and the companionway.)

Asymmetric centerboards were designed to reduce turbulent drag and increase lift. Constructed of a combination of fiberglass mat and Kevlar surrounding closed cell foam, they pivot upward to allow shallow-water anchoring. Located in cavities on the hulls, they are raised from inside the main saloon, a convenient arrangement that does not interfere with galley or navigational chores. Smith says the combination of hull and centerboard redesigns produced a boat requiring “25% less energy to push it the same speed.”

The cockpit sole has been lowered slightly to increase headroom to 6′ 7″. However, the modification does not impair the helmsman’s view forward through a large Lexan window that spans the deck. The wheel was moved outboard, allowing the helmsman to steer from the rail. Mainsail controls are now located on a thicker transom that provides more comfortable seating for crew, and the stern has been modified to allow access from swim ladders.

Smith’s personality is that of a consummate tinkerer. However, unlike industry giants, he enjoys the luxury of being able to continually focus his attention on one product with an eye toward evolutionary improvements.

Deck One early impression while sailing this boat is that the cockpit doesn’t resemble a spaghetti factory, though the boat is as well-equipped with name-brand equipment as a similar-sized monohull.

Halyards are led to winches on the mast rather than sheetstoppers on the cabintop because, Smith says, “you’re operating on a stable platform, even in a blow,” so moving forward is not as treacherous.

The mast carries straight double spreaders and is stepped on deck atop the main bulkhead. The headstay is opposed by a split backstay with tensioner. Halyards are internal. Shrouds are dead-ended on chainplates at the main bulkhead. The chainplates are bolted through steel strapping bonded into the foredeck area.

The mast is rigged with permanent checkstays angled 20 degrees aft. These are supported through the deck by a stainless steel rod married to a steel plate mounted horizontally in the hull. The powerful sailplan is well supported.

As is true on most catamarans, movement forward is relatively effortless. The combination of 14″ wide steps, a handhold on the canopy, a stainless steel handrail recessed in the cabintop, and 10″ wide decks, allowed us to move forward safely in blustery conditions we encountered on a test sail.

The large sundeck and plastic seats attached to the forward rail provide passengers comfortable lounging spaces forward of the mast when underway. Unlike a lightweight monohull, the cat’s performance is relatively unaffected by weight on the foredeck. Storage compartments are located in each hull.

The helmsman steers seated on a 27″ wide x 16″ deep seat that affords unrestricted views forward. We sailed with three passengers under the canopy without interfering with the skipper. Though the saloon may be enclosed in stinky weather, clear windows on the top half of the cockpit bulkhead slide open to allow the driver to commiserate with passengers.

The mainsheet is attached to the end of the boom and a section of track mounted on the stern rail that affords excellent sail control. However, the task becomes difficult when the cockpit is enclosed by a clear vinyl cover.

Lockers for storage of propane tanks and an optional generator are also located in the cockpit.

Belowdecks Step over an 11″ doorframe into the saloon and there’s no comparing the open spaces of the Mc’s 14-foot beam to the view along the saloon of a typical 34-foot monohull. That impression is augmented by a portlight array that provides 360-degree visibility, and four Bowmar hatches that allow light and air to flow in from overhead.

Fiberglass surfaces are light and shiny, and veneers nicely finished. The fit of most cabinetry is above average.

The centerpiece of the saloon is a C -shaped dining area surrounded by cushions that, with the table removed, serves as a conversation pit. When lowered, the table converts to a double berth.

The space to port, amidships along the hull, is dedicated to the navigator. The master stateroom is forward amidships and to starboard, with the bunk set at a slight angle. The head is forward to port. There’s an elongated galley on the starboard side, matched by a navigator’s station along the port side, and twin staterooms aft.

The boat has enough bunks for 6-8 adults, but Smith rightly calls it “a couple’s boat.” This is a refreshing contrast to builders who overstate the livability of their products.

In addition to its spaciousness, the minimum headroom, even in the head, is more than 6′, so most passengers will be able to stand upright.

Though the interior is not dramatically different than typical production boats, several touches contribute to a favorable impression. The dining table is solid teak. Leaves increase the surface of the table to feed 6-8 adults, and it rotates 90 degrees to fit the crowd.

Part of the navigator’s 89″ long work surface is elevated and shaped so a chart kit fits securely.

Aft staterooms have a 28″ x 28″ area in which to change clothes without banging the hull. Both have double berths and opening ports. Propane sensors and fume detectors are standard equipment in the staterooms, as are audible alarms.

The size of the galley on the Mc was increased by locating countertops on the inboard and outboard sides of the passageway, and the addition of drawers and cabinets. Similarly, room for a built-in microwave was added. The space is filled with a Voyager 2000 two-burner stove with oven and broiler, and two-section stainless steel sink. A solar vent is located overhead. The four-cubic-foot refrigerator is a Dometic American.

Skipper’s quarters are filled with light by a port spanning the hulls that presents views through black Lexan. The queen-sized berth sits on an island with nothing below it but water. Storage is forward in the hull, and in bins to starboard. The aft bulkhead of the compartment is enclosed by smoked glass that slides out of the way to provide a view corridor for the helmsman.

The head compartment on the Mc is big, bright, and well-ventilated. A good touch is a siphon arrangement that allows fresh water to be pumped through the toilet after every use, helping to eliminate odors.

Throughout the catamaran, spaces are well-organized and proportioned, so crews will rest, eat, and sleep in comfort. The skipper’s quarters are large enough to help compensate for the monthly mortgage payment and slip fees.

Construction The Gemini plant is a model of efficiency, with no wasted space, as we learned during an afternoon tour. Boats typically require 5-7 days to proceed past six stations to a forklift waiting to launch them into a creek behind the facility.

Hulls, decks, and interior liners that provide reinforcement of the structure and a base for furniture are solid fiberglass. Liners are glassed and tabbed into the hull prior to installation of the deck.

The lamination schedule calls for vinylester resins bonding a barrier coat of 1.5-oz mat followed by two layers of 18 x 15 Cofab mat. The only coring is 1/2″ end-grain balsa across the foredeck and cabintop, and in cockpit areas in which there are no deck fittings.

The hull-deck joint is a shoebox design bonded with something Smith calls “black poly putty,” produced by Cook’s. Most builders prefer 3M5200 but Smith has used the putty for 20 years because “it has an 8- hour setup time that allows workers to be more precise in the placement of the two sections. It makes a phenomenal bond that is not brittle because it is chemically cured, a better alternative than air-cured products.”

Once installed, the deck is secured with stainless steel fasteners on 5″ centers and the joint is covered by a gunwale guard.

Following his trans-Atlantic trip, Smith decided that the boat needed to undergo a weight loss program. When constructed, most boats are heavier than designed, and the Mc was no exception. Smith estimates the boat was 1,000 pounds too heavy.

“It was not a matter of speed, but of comfort,” he said. “I felt that by reducing the boat’s weight I could increase its buoyancy and produce a more comfortable ride.”

To that end, he replaced drawers in the forward stateroom with bins, substituted 1/2″ plywood for 3/4″ in some areas, and lightened the lamination in some nonload-bearing areas.

The boat’s Achilles heel could be the solving of wiring or plumbing problems, should they occur. Wiring looms are attached to the liner prior to the installation of the liner to the hull, and are virtually inaccessible. Of the arrangement, Smith says “our looms are foolproof. Remember, we’ve been doing this for 20 years and the process is evolutionary, not revolutionary.” Spare hoses are installed during construction to ease retrofitting appliances, and 12-volt wires are run through PVC to avoid heat and chafe. Wires exit the mast into the forward stateroom, and can be accessed in a panel between the deck and liner. Still, we wouldn’t want to perform subcutaneous surgery on this boat.

Performance We sailed the 105Mc on the day after the Annapolis Boat Show ended, when multihull manufacturers congregate to offer rides to interested sailors. A northeaster arrived that morning, bringing winds that built to 25-35 knots and produced a 3-4 foot chop. We were the only multi hull on the water.

With the wind abeam when we slipped dock lines, once we were underway she motored well despite her windage. On the bay, the boat sailed with little heel, and fast, under a reefed mainsail and a flat, 90% jib. Nearby, the three-person crew aboard a 30-foot monohull struggled to keep their boat on her feet.

Sailing closed-hauled, speed fluctuated between 6.5 and 7 knots. The short chop produced a bumpy ride and water over the bow, but we stayed on course with very little leeway. When we cracked off, speed fluctuated between 7 and 12 knots in wind speeds ranging from 17 to 25 knots. She was easy to steer, and responsive when we made sudden maneuvers to avoid crab pots.

The canopy protects crew from the elements, but may provide a false sense of security, as we learned when we moved forward from its protection and stepped into a chilly breeze and seaspray. Handrails are well located, and the nonskid was effective on the wet deck.

The boat is propelled under power by a single Westerbeke diesel, using an outdrive leg than can be lifted clear of the water. The current standard engine is 27-hp, up from the 20-hp engine previously installed.

Conclusions This third generation of Gemini cat is an improvement over her predecessors. She sails as well to windward as can be expected of a cruising catamaran (better than many) and shows good speed and stability off the wind. She’s easy to operate, and well-built. Spaces belowdecks are comfortable and larger than those on similar-sized monohulls, though the lack of a second head will be an inconvenience for skippers overnighting with large crews. With the 27-hp engine, a 150% genoa and furler, and electronics, the tab for the 105Mc is $129,500. Add a screecher for another $5,400.

Contact – Performance Cruising, Inc., 410/626-2720, www.geminicatamarans.com

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Where is the production site, and can a tour of the facility be arranged?

The boat is no longer in production. Tony retired and sold the company. I think during the 2005 market crash everything fell apart. The outdrive and engine aren’t made anymore. The new owners redesigned the boat and ruined the original idea. They tried to design a boat for the single handed rental market in the Caribbean with a deeper draft and fixed keels. It didn’t sell well.

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