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gemini catamaran problems

Our Gemini Catamaran

Published on May 18, 2015 ; last updated on June 20, 2020 by Carolyn Shearlock

We went from a monohull (Tayana 37 to a catamaran (Gemini). Here's our thoughts on the cat.

We’ve had a number of questions on how we like our Gemini catamaran or how was it to go from our previous boat — a monohull Tayana 37 — to it. Here’s our listing of the pros and cons.

In a nutshell, we LOVE our Gemini catamaran for what we are now doing — two people living aboard full-time, coastal cruising in the Florida Keys and going to the Bahamas for several months at a time. But I’m not going to say it’s the perfect boat for everyone.

Okay, with that out of the way, there are a few things that we need to say:

  • The Tayana 37 is a true blue water boat. The Gemini is a coastal cruiser. They are very, very different boats and designed for different purposes.
  • Because of that, it’s almost impossible to truly compare them.

When we bought the Tayana ( Que Tal ), we didn’t know if we’d cross the Pacific, but thought we might (we didn’t). We wanted a boat that left the possibility open. The Tayana did well for us in the Sea of Cortez and down the coast to El Salvador, but the reality is that the Gemini would have been great, too. Probably better.

Things that we particularly like about the Gemini ( Barefoot Gal is a 105M):

  • The living arrangement. It’s just a good layout for us, with a large “living room” (settee and table). The whole boat is much lighter and brighter, too. We also like the fact that the cockpit opens right into the living area, without going up and down stairs all the time. It’s also easier to get into and out of the queen berth (side entry) as opposed to the V-berth on the Tayana.
  • Huge cockpit. It’s great for entertaining or even just the two of us, with room to actually walk around. The Tayana 37 has what’s referred to as an “offshore” cockpit, meaning it’s very small so that if a wave breaks into the cockpit it won’t sink the boat. But that means that it’s a very tight fit for four people. The Gemini is a much better layout for having people over. When we bought Que Tal , we underestimated how much we’d use the cockpit for things other than just steering the boat.
  • Maneuverability. The Gemini is so much easier to handle in close quarters, it’s not even funny. The drive leg makes it like having an outboard, in that you steer it as well as the rudders. The Gemini is also technically 3 feet shorter than the Tayana (34 feet vs. 37) but with the Tayana’s bowsprit, it’s more like 8 or 9 feet shorter in reality. The lighter weight of the Gemini also makes it much more responsive. And any full keel boat such as the Tayana, in the words of another Tayana owner, “backs like a drunken elephant.” In other words, you don’t have a clue where it will go. Less freeboard on the Gemini also makes it easier to pick up a mooring ball both as it’s easier for the person at the helm to see it and much easier for the person at the bow to pick it up. The stress level on the Gemini as we approach a fixed object (dock, bridge, lock or even a mooring ball) is so much less than on the Tayana. The ease of getting underway/returning resulted in us going for a lot of short (1 – 2 hour) daysails. We had no idea how much this one factor would contribute to our enjoyment of the boat — and we’ve both always loved boating!
  • Ease of sail handling. The Gemini’s sails are considerably smaller than the Tayana’s and the boom is much lower to the coach house roof. It is so much easier to raise/roll out the sails and stow them again, and the spinnaker is also a much more manageable size and has a larger wind range. We never wonder if it’s worth the effort to set the sails, even for a short trip. We’re not getting any younger, either (Dave is 77 and I’m 55): easier sail handling and a smaller anchor mean we’ll be able to cruise longer.
  • Speed. Despite being smaller, the Gemini is considerably faster under sail and power. Our one-day range is considerably expanded. We can sail a lot more both as we move at a reasonable speed even in light winds (the drive leg pivots up out of the water easily to decrease drag) and we can afford several hours of light-air sailing and still make our intended anchorage since we typically motor at 6 knots versus 4.5 knots on the Tayana. Believe it or not, the Gemini sails slightly closer to the wind than our Tayana.
  • Shallow draft. Draft was never a big issue in the Sea of Cortez or along the coast of Mexico and Central America. But it is in Florida and the Bahamas. Our Tayana theoretically drew 6 feet but loaded for cruising it was probably closer to 6½ feet. The Gemini draws about 2½ feet with the centerboards up but the drive leg and rudders down. We can go lots of places that many other boats, including a lot of catamarans, can’t. And we like to explore off the beaten path. A related factor is that our bridge clearance is just 45 feet, also giving us the freedom to go places some others can’t . . . and we have a lot less stress going under those 54 and 55 foot spans!

Bottom line is that for what we’re doing , the Gemini catamaran is just plain a fun boat. But I want to emphasize the “for what we’re doing.” Should we decide that we want to go to the Virgin Islands, we won’t have the option of going offshore — we’ll have to island hop down (yes, I know a few Geminis have gone offshore but I’ve also read their accounts).

To keep the speed and maneuverability that we like, we have to watch how much we load on board — and that means that we can’t carry as many provisions. The guest arrangements are great if one person comes, bad for more (what’s billed as a double berth is 4″ narrower than a double bed). The galley arrangement isn’t quite as good, but it’s not at all unworkable. Finally, the motion of a catamaran is different than a monohull. Not necessarily bad but it does take some getting used to if sailing in chop.

The holding tank is small at 18 gallons. After a year of cruising, we switched to a composting head ( read more about our reasons here ).

Our Gemini is an “M,” built in 1999 towards the end of the “M” series and has many features of an “MC” such as composite centerboards instead of plywood. The MC has many features that we’d like but the available ones at the time of our purchase were out of our budget.

The current model is the “Legacy” and it is totally redesigned with the interior layout changed slightly and, most importantly to us, skegs instead of centerboards. While the skegs are lower maintenance and require no effort while underway (versus having the lower a centerboard if sailing above a beam reach), we like the improved windward performance that the centerboards bring over a skeg.

Everything is a tradeoff. We are extremely glad that we decided on a Gemini as we absolutely love it. Some of the things that we love about it — such as the speed — are fairly typical of catamarans as opposed to monohulls, while other items are more specific to having a small catamaran or even to the Gemini (maneuverability).

I’ve been asked a few times if we intend to get a larger boat now that we’re going to be living aboard full time. You’ve probably already guessed that our answer is no — the Gemini catamaran is big enough for our needs and its small size leads to many of the things that we like about her. Within reason, smaller is just easier . . . and costs less too!

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Reader Interactions

Lori Steinbrunner says

May 18, 2015 at 11:26 am

Couldn’t’t agree more. We also love our Gem.

Janet Lettrich says

May 18, 2015 at 11:56 am

This was a very informative comparison. Thank you!

The Boat Galley says

May 18, 2015 at 12:04 pm

Some of the differences we expected, such as the living arrangement and the large cockpit. But we didn’t realize how much easier she’d be to “move” — whether by motor or sail. And that’s turned out to be a big part of why we love her!

May 18, 2015 at 1:00 pm

I have only ever sailed monohulls. I am looking to live aboard in the next few years. I was considering a boat like your former one for the same reasons – like leaving the possibility of ocean crossing open. Still open to all possibilities, which is why your post gave me a lot to consider. Thanks again.

Mark Sierakowski says

May 18, 2015 at 1:11 pm

Rik Dove, food for thought, if you aren’t going around the world.

Jennifer Kelly Majoros says

May 18, 2015 at 1:30 pm

We wouldn’t trade our Gem either. Love it!

Connie Watkins Weaver says

May 18, 2015 at 1:37 pm

Thanks for the accounting! Very helpful!

Mary Facker says

May 18, 2015 at 2:06 pm

How much of a factor were tramps when you picked the Gemini? I love everything about it, except for I have this dream of laying out on the trampolines, and I’m not sure I can give it up. How much do you think you’d use them if you had them?

Carolyn Shearlock says

May 18, 2015 at 4:18 pm

We’ve been on some cats with tramps (friends’ boats) and didn’t use them as much as we’d envisioned. So we didn’t really consider them (or the lack of them) in picking the Gemini. I don’t think (I may be mis-remembering) I’ve seen any of the small cats with them — they just need the space for living quarters and storage. Probably the biggest thing is that since it’s solid up from, there is more wave slap when you’re beating. We don’t find it too annoying, but some people hate it.

Bob Kimble says

March 25, 2016 at 8:13 am

I too had wanted tramps when I bought my Gem, but the hard foredeck turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It was the perfect place for morning sun salutes.

Rik Dove says

May 18, 2015 at 9:10 pm

True. And I agree with the thought. Problem is… Dikenga and I have been through so much. She is family. I could never bring myself to sell my Tayana

May 19, 2015 at 7:57 am

Sounds like a perfect boat for the Keys. We had a 30′ Iroquois for 14 years with a trampoline and while the kids loved it, it made the boat wetter going into heavy seas. I’m thinking too, now that I’m older, it wouldn’t be as stable a platform for foredeck work. We moved up to an Island Packet catamaran 8 years ago with a solid foredeck. It’s very dry( has a pod to break waves) but there is slap at anchor if there’s a heavy chop( no fun on any boat, either). What’s nice about the Gemini and Island Packet is they usually fit into a conventional slip, being 14 and 15 foot beam, respectively. The cockpit is another “room” for us. Thanks for your thoughts on your model. We sailed a Legacy last summer as a demo, but could never afford a newer one.

Mark Krajcar says

May 27, 2019 at 10:56 am

I looked at the Gem’s and ruled them out for several reasons. I did find 2 of the IpY Packet Cat 35’s for sale and a friend and I each bought one of them. I’m getting ready to head off this year, circumnavigation and would love to connect with you. Perhaps Carolyn can assist us if you’re interested.

I emailed re the name of a product you’d recommended and I couldn’t remember. You got back to me in a day! I was very surprised and happy. Thank you so much.

Judy Richterman says

May 19, 2015 at 8:56 am

What a good comparison! We’ve been living aboard our Cal 39 in the Leewards since November 2014, and I have enjoyed the luxury of space and light when I visited friends with large catamarans. It didn’t occur to me that we could find a catamaran with maneuverability and a size that would be comfortable for gunk holing in the Chesapeake and the Florida Bay. My husband got very excited by your article. You’ve planted a seed for our next stage of cruising a few years down the road.

Tim Sheahan says

May 19, 2015 at 2:16 pm

Do you have problems with stress cracks,..a friend has one and has cracks along all his shrouds and basically all around the deck, everywhere anything is bolted thru.

May 19, 2015 at 6:43 pm

The gelcoat is a problem area on the Gems. Ours is chalky and has a lot of crazing. The company swears that it’s not structural and that is how it seems on all that we’ve seen and owners we’ve talked to — not pretty but not structural.

May 19, 2015 at 7:58 pm

Right, we’re doing his this fall, just curious if it was universal.

David Ditacchio says

May 19, 2015 at 6:07 pm

After owning our Gemini 105M for 15 years, we are putting it up for sale. It has been a great boat to own and we have had many great trips with it. We will miss it and all the great Gemini sailors that we have met over the past 15 years.

Happy/sad time.

Gregory Allen says

October 26, 2015 at 12:57 am

I have been hearing about the gemini so much that for the last year I have been researching every thing about this cat and the more I read the more I am looking forward to purchasing my own. I’m in love with it and have not even chartered one yet.

December 1, 2015 at 11:30 am

We bought our Gemini 105M from PCI in 2000. It’s been a great boat and we have had 16 years of great sailing. Health issues and age are catching up with us so we are putting our boat up for sale. We are spending this winter in Cocoa Village, FL.

December 1, 2015 at 3:53 pm

Glad to hear of your many fun years aboard! It must be a tough decision to sell her . . .

April 6, 2017 at 7:37 pm

Did you end up selling it ? Looking for a 105M Joe

December 15, 2015 at 9:41 pm

I’m looking at getting a Gemini legacy 35 for a live aboard and possibly some blue water sailing. What would be the pros and cons of this type of sailing occasionally. I have 2 children that will with me so accommodations should be just right.

March 24, 2016 at 6:14 pm

Those of you who are considering a Gemini:

Have a look at the Canadian-made “Tomcat.” We looked at one at Miami Boat Show and were very impressed. Very like the Gems, yet to us, better thought out. If we were in the Gem market we’d seriously consider them.

March 24, 2016 at 6:39 pm

We saw them 2 years ago and were also impressed. However there are almost none available used, and the backlog for new ones is several years long. Or at least it was then.

Jennifer Good Spires says

March 24, 2016 at 11:05 pm

I sure love mine. I can hardly wait for spring!

Dan N Jaye says

March 24, 2016 at 11:13 pm

Interesting, Carolyn; we’re not looking to trade boats any time soon but you make good points.

Michael McIntosh says

March 25, 2016 at 1:18 am

How many degrees off the wind will she sail?

March 25, 2016 at 12:00 pm

50-ish, depending on sea state. Smooth water, closer than that.

March 25, 2016 at 1:26 am

Love our Gem, nearly 5 years and counting…

Kimberly Fain Ward says

March 25, 2016 at 7:14 pm

We love ours, too! Paula L Mueller, did you see this?

Paula L Mueller says

March 26, 2016 at 2:22 am

I had read it before and just read the whole thing again ?

March 26, 2016 at 2:25 am

Courtney Cali T says

March 26, 2016 at 10:43 am

James Tex Kilburn says

March 26, 2016 at 10:46 pm

I’m currently refitting a Gemini 3000. We’re very pleased with her performance as a Costal Cruiser and plan on upgrading to a 105 in a few years!

werner thomas says

June 9, 2016 at 9:48 am

hi great comments evaluating your cat. The small cats do it for me too, I now have a Catalac 10m after my first cat a Wharram Tiki 30! The centerboard set up ibdeed better upwind sailing but so much weaker in gunkholing! It is amazing how these under 35 foot cats have such large living areas. I would not howecer use a Gemini where I am cruising with my Catalac because no chandlers, no technical backup. My Catalac can take quite a knock which leseer strong cars wpuldnt survive. Imagine hitting an old bridge head thats completely dubmerged and nowhere indicated on charts but in major river gere in Mozambique. Great blog keep it up, I admire those bloggers that entertain/inform us so well.

Dan Rupli says

June 17, 2016 at 5:03 pm

I love the whole idea of the Gemini 35, but will always want to go around the world at least one time. Is there no compromise between catamaran comfort and Tayana blue water capabilities?

June 17, 2016 at 7:51 pm

There are definitely boats that are in between . . . some of the 40-foot cats and some of the lighter monohulls. No boat can be everything, though, so you have to decide what’s important for you.

June 20, 2016 at 1:42 pm

Thanks for this insightful article. I am one of many investigating/considering the Gemini – I’m curious whether you found yourself sitting on the combing when handling the wheel? I had not realized the other advantages you pointed out regarding visibility/convenience in handling.

June 20, 2016 at 3:34 pm

We rarely hand steer — only when doing close quarters work. The rest of the time we let the autopilot do it’s thing. But yes, we usually sit up on the “upper level” on the side of the cockpit.

mikeoore says

August 14, 2016 at 9:53 am

Great article. We are close to a boat purchase and liked both the gemini cats and my lifelong favorite, the Tayana 37. Being so different, and generally for different purposes, it was hard to make a choice. Your story helprf. Thanks

August 14, 2016 at 10:17 am

We really like both, but they are very different boats and best suited for different types of cruising. Glad you found the comparison useful!

Brian Kepner says

July 21, 2017 at 6:54 pm

Hope Gemini sends you some swag for this article.. I might consider one if I ever see one up here in the PNW. Cats are very uncommon up here.

Charles Dalesch says

July 21, 2017 at 10:21 pm

Scott Taber time to get a cat

Diane Mercaldo says

July 21, 2017 at 10:38 pm

Nice to have the added living space that is lighter and brighter. Bridge heights, OH YOU’RE SO LUCKY,I’m jealous and depth is no longer a factor, CONGRATULATIONS, enjoy and safe sailing!

Paul English says

July 21, 2017 at 9:13 pm

I’m still struggling with the whole “blue water” distinction – and I realize it is not necessarily razor sharp.

What features did your mono have that made it blue water, that the Gemini doesn’t?

Does the Gemini itself preclude blue water from your perspective – like you wouldn’t consider an Atlantic or Pacific crossing with it? Or would you consider it with (presumably pretty expensive) modifications?

And a more general question – do you think you would have been ultimately “equally open” to blue water sailing by purchasing a non-blue-water boat to start with, then simply traded up when you were ready and certain that you were going to cross an ocean?

July 22, 2017 at 7:11 am

It has a lot to do with build strength. The Tayana has a much thicker and heavier hull that would be much harder to hole. The deck to hull joint is also much “beefier.” Chainplates are attached with more bolts and are themselves larger. Winches were oversized. Water and diesel tanks were much larger. It’s also a heavy displacement boat and comfortable (well, relatively!) in large seas. It’s also things like the size of cleats, having secure places to clip in on deck and a protected cockpit.

I know of one Gemini that circumnavigated (Slap-Dash) and while they beefed it up before they went, they did major repair in most of the big cities they hit along the way.

The designer of the Gemini took one across the Atlantic — again, with modifications.

The thing about crossing an ocean is that you don’t know what weather you’ll encounter and your boat has to be okay to handle large seas. Now, we could island-hop through the Caribbean, where we’d have numerous open water passages — but most just about 100 miles long. That’s a single day. You can get a pretty good weather forecast for the next 24 hours so even “unexpected” conditions aren’t going to have the huge seas that would be a problem.

So, while others may have crossed oceans in a Gemini, I wouldn’t.

As to your more general question. I think when we began cruising (2002), there weren’t the blogs and Facebook that showed people cruising on a smaller scale. Most information came from circumnavigators — or at least ocean-crossers — in books and Cruising World. So our initial thoughts were that we’d be like all those folks . . . and wanted that type of boat.

July 22, 2017 at 2:53 am

July 22, 2017 at 4:00 am

Totally agree! We love our Gem too!

Steve Barnes says

July 22, 2017 at 4:01 am

What’s your hull number? We are a 1999 M #651 and have wooden boards. In good shape now, but was a pain restoring them after barnacles got through the paint and water rotted several spots.

July 22, 2017 at 10:34 am

We’re 655, just 4 after you.

July 22, 2017 at 12:49 pm

Consider yourself lucky!

Thom Hounsell says

July 22, 2017 at 10:53 am

Nice analysis. Thanks!

Pam Carr Jackson says

July 22, 2017 at 2:39 pm

Doug Jackson and I had an Island Packet then bought a sailing catamaran (a Lagoon). Agree with everything stated regarding the benefits of a cat vs monohull!

July 22, 2017 at 5:08 pm

Love our 2004 Gemini 105Mc, s/v Ally Cat! She took us from MA to Grenada and back and now we are LOVING exploring all the skinny water aournd us in Buzzards Bay!! Found the most beautiful spot on Nantucket a couple weeks ago…anxious to see where we ‘discover’ when we go out again for a couple weeks in August 🙂

Lorraine Steyn says

July 22, 2017 at 9:26 pm

I just hate the motion of a catamaran, that jerky motion in chop. Spoiled the sailing for me, despite the pleasures of more space for a live-aboard life

Steve Olson says

July 24, 2017 at 3:28 am

Oh man, I’ll never go Cat. I’d much rather have the T37!!

Smith Angie says

May 15, 2018 at 2:47 am

Thanks for sharing this information.It’s very usefull for me

George Poole says

August 18, 2018 at 9:02 am

This is an Excellent review – Thank you so much for the information.

All the best to you

Frank and Cindy says

August 22, 2018 at 9:35 pm

All these years later and this post is still drawing comments! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Gemini! We love our 105mc #816. S/V Mavis. I’ve been reading your stuff for years when owning a Gemini was just a dream! Fair winds and keep posting!

Thomas Pierquet says

September 18, 2018 at 11:03 pm

I am wondering what the boat speed is cruising at 2000,2500,and 2800 rpm respectively. I heard someone claim 8kts at 2800rpm. Is this possible? Or is that a stretch? I presently have a Beneteau 311 (cruises at 6kts@2800rpm) and have been considering a Gemini 105MC for more room. My wife would like to have a bigger cabin and more boat speed on the way home if no wind.. Also, how valuable is the option of the Screecher sail to the performance of these boats?

September 19, 2018 at 8:45 am

I’d say that’s a stretch. We can motor a little over 6 knots in very smooth water. Looking back on our logs, 5.8 is more common at 2800 — but remember that we are loaded for cruising/full-time living aboard, probably much more so than you would be if you still have a land-based home. We don’t have a screecher, so I can’t answer that — I know it would be fun on certain points of sail, but can’t talk to how it actually performs. I think we’d use it on the furler more than we use our asymmetrical spinnaker.

September 19, 2018 at 9:18 am

Thank you for your very timely reply. It’s always good to hear from an owner to get accurate information. I have been reading everything I can about the Gemini. I have decided that I want a 105mc to get the latest version with the centerboards. I would welcome all and any comments directly from owners of any of the performance positive or negatives. I enjoy my Beneteau 311 but need a main cabin bed with more room and more space for my grandkids to come along. Thanks again

October 2, 2018 at 1:14 pm

Great review of the boat. We are also considering a Gemini 105M along with a Prout Snowgoose. Can you comment on wave slap when at anchor on a typical night. I have been a power boater for years, have done a lot of anchoring out overnight and have never liked the chine slap at anchor if the wind is up.

October 4, 2018 at 9:04 pm

It all depends on the amount of wind and waves. Most nights, in a calm anchorage, it’s not noticeable. But if there are waves, you’ll hear them on the hull and you’ll hear some wave slap on the bridge deck.

JoAnna Mitchell says

January 25, 2020 at 10:21 am

Hi Carolyn, Thanks for this informative post! My husband and I are considering stepping up from our Hunter 30T to a Gemini 105MC. I have noticed in the listings that many have had the IO replaced with a standard outboard engine. What are your thoughts and what have you heard from other Gemini owners? Thanks for this page as well. We have used it a lot in preparation for our cruising future. JoAnna

January 25, 2020 at 12:35 pm

I know that many have made the switch but I think that more are still with the diesel. We did not want a gas engine as we simply didn’t want to carry that much gasoline on trips as it is MUCH more explosive than diesel fuel. However, they’re typically lighter weight and easy to have repaired or replaced should that be necessary.

Janet Smoot says

April 4, 2020 at 4:03 pm

We have owned our 2000 Gemini 105M for 8 years. We love it! We had a 25′ Catalina swing keel before that. Live the space..Plenty of sleeping for 4 people.The kitchen works great. Bought closed cell cushions for outside cockpit so very comfortable. Sail msilnly Potomac River and Chesapeake. But once we retire plan on longer trips. Works well for small grandchildren too. Can’t say enough good things about this cat. Never thought we could afford one. Gemini has now priced themselves out of the average sailor though. Thanks for the inciteful review.

Holly Henry says

October 8, 2020 at 11:03 am

Thank you for your website and information. We are looking at a 2000 Gemini 105M…it’s so difficult to find an MC. What does the MC have different that you would like? Thank you again for all of your information.

October 8, 2020 at 11:18 am

We have a 1999 105M.

Major changes in the MC:

  • Mast is 1 foot taller and boom one foot longer, so mainsail is larger. Also bigger roach with the masthead crane.
  • MC has an optional screacher.
  • Seating at table is squared off, making it easier to nap on settees and huge difference in how easy the seats are to remove when you need to re-upholster.
  • Table drops down to create a large bed for guests.
  • Laminate centerboards instead of wood. Our 1999 M has the laminate boards, so it’s very likely the 2000 model does.
  • Built-in air conditioning (this isn’t something we cared about, but it’s a big deal for many people)
  • MC is 900+ pounds lighter, so it sails and motors faster with the same load.

October 8, 2020 at 7:08 pm

Thank you so much. Gemini’s are getting harder to find now that we are looking. Your website and info are invaluable to this part-time cruiser.

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Good Morning: We are in the beginning stages of narrowing our choice of boats for our retirement cruising. Current plans are: part-time cruising (3-4 months annually); east coast, Bahamas, Caribbean. On the mono hull side, we are looking at used Tartans, Cape Dory, Brisol in the 35-38 foot range not to exceed $100K. Here is the problem. I have the wife buying into the cruising dream but she isn't fond of boats heeling and the narrow beam. She is getting better but it's still a long road. The current Cruising World has some articles on catamarans and I started thinking about my wife's healing/beam issue. One possibility is the Gemini 105Mc. Found some limited info on the Forums and a recommendation on the Mahina website. We are visiting the Gemini factory tomorrow and was wondering if anyone has some experience with the boat so we can ask them some specific questions. Appreciate any assistance provided. Mike  

sailingdog

A friend of mine's family owned an older Gemini for many years... and cruised from the Great Lakes down to the Caribbean for many years on theirs. The Gemini is a pretty solid boat for a reasonable price, and provides a lot more living space than a monohull of comparable size, but is a bit more sensitive to weight, so you can't load her up like the monohulls. The beam on the Gemini is only 14', so she can fit in some of the larger slips, which can make finding dock space for her simpler than some of the larger cats, and about the same price as some of the larger monohull boats you're looking at, since a 40' slip will fit both a 38' monohull or a Gemini 105 Mc. You should also join the Owner's Info Center at the Gemini website . They have a good article about an Atlantic crossing made in one. The shallow draft makes it an excellent choice for the areas you're looking to sail. I can't really give you any specific information without knowing a bit more about what you're planning-how many people will be aboard, etc. The boat is a three-cabin layout with additional berths in the salon area. The master cabin is the largest and has much more room than the smaller two cabins... but some people I know have found the aft cabins more comfortable while on a passage due to the reduced motion and noise of being aft, rather than forward.  

kd3pc

Mike we were just up Sunday and went through the demo boat quite thoroughly. We met Tony and he pointed out some of the very well done things....I was very impressed with the boat and she has far more space than our 38' monohull. Perhaps not the quality/craftsmanship but definitely the engineering, robust hardware and a great looking boat. ALthough the Gemini is only a few inches wider than our mono the amount of room is not comparable...full size master berth, settee that allows your feet to touch the sole, steering station that is realistically placed, you do not have to step over someone to tack...just a really well designed, built and laid out boat. Then you get to the price and your are very happy. I really like that the boat is finished to be used..not looked at or sat upon at the dock. I loved the back seat below the davits and it is very comfortable to boot. dave  

Although I am a mono sailor one thing I like about the Gemini is the fact you only have maintenance on one engine vs. 2 on most cats. But how does that impact maneauverability?  

danjarch

Single srcew makes it handle like a monohull. Saildog forgot to mention that you should read cruising multihulls by Thomas Forth Jones and the other book he usaully recomends. You can find the name on other threads. The one difference that can get to some people, is the motion of a catameran is a little different, and can bring on motion sickness a little faster. Every one I've talked to says it isn't hard to get used to. I never found it to big that different.  

danjarch said: Single srcew makes it handle like a monohull. Saildog forgot to mention that you should read cruising multihulls by Thomas Forth Jones and the other book he usaully recomends. You can find the name on other threads. The one difference that can get to some people, is the motion of a catameran is a little different, and can bring on motion sickness a little faster. Every one I've talked to says it isn't hard to get used to. I never found it to big that different. Click to expand...
MikeGreene said: All: Thanks for the info. We just returned from visiting the factory and Sue Smith was great!!! For the first time, my wife is the one wanting to buy a new boat NOW. Overall I was impressed with what I saw. The boat is not fancy but it is functional and seems ideal for what I want it to do. Regards, Mike Click to expand...

While PCI doesn't build the fanciest boat, they do make a pretty solid, affordable boat. My boat is built by them. Tony Smith, Sue's husband and head of the company is very open about his designs and the pros and cons of them.  

ebs001

The one problem that consistently comes up when I talk to Gemini owners is that they are not happy with the single leg outdrive. They have all said its a weak point in the drivetrain and all have had problems with it in one form or another. The steering cables are prone to breaking as well which is another constant complaint. They all agree that it, however, a very liveable boat.  

That's right about the saildrive. I was in Norfolk, VA heading north and spent the night in a marina next to a Gemini 105. The G had come south from Deltaville in some choppy Chesapeake Bay weather and the saildrive was leaking. The owner had a mechanic come over to help resolve the problem but said the boat needed to be hauled. The owner of the Gemini said the heavy weather on the lower Chesapeake Bay beat up the boat pretty bad. Something to consider despite all the hype about the ability to cross oceans.  

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Gemini 105 Review

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

gemini catamaran problems

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 catamaran problems

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.”

gemini catamaran problems

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

gemini catamaran problems

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

gemini catamaran problems

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?

gemini catamaran problems

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 catamaran problems

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.

gemini catamaran problems

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 B

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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Gemini Owners Resources

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gemini catamaran problems

Are Gemini Catamarans Good? A Review of Popular Models!

gemini catamaran problems

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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 catamaran problems

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. 

gemini catamaran problems

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 catamaran problems

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! 

gemini catamaran problems

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 catamaran problems

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.  

gemini catamaran problems

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. 

gemini catamaran problems

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 31/3000

Long america's only production cruising multihull, this boat has many fans..

Tony Smith sure knows how to make the most of a good thing. The British multihull lover has gotten more mileage out of one design than any boatbuilder we know. And why not? With more than 200 Geminis built to date, and interest building, why switch?

Gemini 31/3000 sailboat

In 1972 Smith designed and developed the 26-foot folding trimaran Telstar in England. He brought the molds to the U.S. and built 350 of them before a devestating fire destroyed the molds in 1981. Desperate to resurrect his business, he grabbed some old catamaran molds he had—the Aristocat—changed the name and that same year launched the first Gemini 31.

Three years and 27 boats later, he retooled to produce the Gemini 3000, which is essentially the same boat, but longer. Today, yet another incarnation of that first design—the Gemini 3200—continues to sell well.

Several years ago, Smith planned to introduce a larger 37-foot version, but the cost was much higher and despite building one boat, he changed his mind. The multihull business in this country has been slow to take off. And as even the established monohull builders like Pearson and C & C have found out, there ain’t much room for error. Instead, Smith has refined the Gemini much like the Volkswagen Beetle. By listening to owners’ comments, and by incorporating his own evolving ideas, the boat has changed a good deal, though one would be hard pressed to distinguish, at a glance, between a 1984 Gemini and a 1992 model.

The funny thing about the Gemini is that it’s an old design. Ken Shaw drew the lines in 1969. There’s nothing particularly contemporary about it. However, by painting the cabin sides black (Euro styling), adding a swept-back fiberglass “pilothouse” and gradually adding length to the full-bodied hulls, the Gemini has always looked like she belonged with her contemporaries, whether that was the 1980s or 1990s.

The most important thing to remember when evaluating this design is that the Gemini is essentially used as a 30-foot live-aboard, cruising catamaran. While faster than most monohulls of equal length, it has no pretense of being a racer. How could it be with such a spacious interior? Further, many of Smith’s customers are older folks who are tired of heeling, don’t have $200,000 to spend, and don’t plan to circumnavigate. In fact, most Geminis we’ve seen are happily puttering up and down the Intracoastal Waterway along the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast. It’s perfect for that.

Summing up the design gets a little dicey when offshore work is discussed. The Gemini’s liabilities here are several. Because of the substantial accommodations built on the bridge, which necessitates lowering it for headroom, and the solid bridge forward (as opposed to netting), it’s a bit heavy. Smith says that if loaded for extended cruising, there is not a lot of clearance between the bottom of the bridge and the surface of the water, and it will pound going to weather in choppy seas. Sailed light, the Gemini will do quite nicely and be much more comfortable.

The performance of full bridgedeck cats, such as the Gemini, also suffer a bit from the extra weight and windage. Smith, a racer at heart, admits that if he had his druthers he’d build an open bridge forward, but for his cruising clientele, the full bridge makes more sense.

Nevertheless, Geminis have, according to Smith, crossed the Atlantic, cruised the South Pacific and Caribbean.

Having spent a week cruising the Chesapeake Bay aboard a Gemini 31, we found the boat extremely comfortable and fun to sail. With a large queen-size stateroom forward and double staterooms aft in each hull, there’s room for Mom and Dad, Junior and Sis, each in their own private cabins.

Gemini 31/3000

Speed reaching and sailing upwind was about 50 percent faster than what we could do in our 33-foot Pearson Vanguard. We hit double digits just once. But sailing in moderate winds we’d make eight and nine knots when our Pearson would do five and six. Three or four knots may not seem like a lot, but for sailboats on an all-day passage, the difference cuts hours off sailing time.

Best of all, it’s level sailing. This makes for very restful cruising.

Punching to windward in a chop, we did buck a bit, and the quicker motion of a multi takes some getting used to. All in all, we came away impressed with its space and performance.

Construction

The key to high-performance multihull construction is lightness and strength. The rapid evolution of composite building techniques now makes possible the use of lightweight core materials, specialized fibers such as Kevlar, and strong resins that in combination yield a panel that is much lighter and stiffer than solid fiberglass or fiberglass with just “traditional” core materials such as end-grain balsa and PVC foam. Vacuum bagging helps assure uniform bonding of all the “parts.” Naturally, such construction is costly.

Construction of the Gemini, which is marketed as a comfortable, low-priced cruising catamaran rather than a spartan high-tech racing machine, is quite conventional. The hull is built of solid fiberglass—mat and woven roving. The deck is cored with balsa for stiffness. The new Gemini 3200 incorporates a layer of vinylester resin as a blister barrier. Twenty percent of the owners of older models responding to our survey reported “some” blistering—a below average incidence.

The centerboard trunks were laid up separately in the early boats, but Smith said it was difficult getting good tolerances for the centerboards to fit right. Now the trunks are part of the hull mold and the slot is a guaranteed two inches and the polyurethane-coated plywood centerboards 1-7/8″.

Obviously, to keep weight light, a multihull builder isn’t going to use any unnecessary laminations. Consequently, many multihulls feel flimsy compared to monohulls. One Gemini owner said, “The strength is a little lower than I would have liked, but it helps hold the cost down.” And, we might, add, the weight that is so important to multihull performance. The rock steady feel of thick decks is somewhat at odds with the requirements of multihull design and construction.

A frequent complaint of Gemini owners is gelcoat flaws. “Gelcoat has many voids,” wrote one owner. “Some gelcoat yellowing and crazing,” said another. The interior woodwork is acceptable to some owners, and not to others. “Woodwork finish is inept,” said one owner. “Finish work is my biggest complaint,” said the owner of a 1985 model.

Smith admits that leaky windows were a problem in early boats. The design has since been changed, including the use of Lexan in place of Plexiglas, and a new system to bed the large panels allows for thicker beads of sealant to absorb the expansion and contraction of the windows.

Most owners, however, seemed to feel that these are minor problems they’re willing to live with. They rate construction lower than other attributes of the boat, but overall still are satisfied with their choice of the Gemini. We’d like to see a bit more glass in the Gemini, or the use of a core for stiffness and strength, though we acknowledge it would increase the price.

Performance

Besides accomodation space and low heel angles, speed is a major factor in choosing a multihull. Only one owner expressed disappointment in his Gemini’s maximum speed attainable. True, it won’t hit those 15- to 20-knot speeds possible in more performance-oriented cats and tris. Nearly all owners, however, remarked on the Gemini’s good light-air performance. And, as we found during our week’s cruise of the Chesapeake Bay, the boat is definitely faster than a cruising monohull of equivalent size.

A key to performance in any multihull is keeping weight down. Unfortunately, many owners overload their boats and this has a direct effect on speed and pointing ability. It’s a problem with no easy answers for live-aboards and long-term cruisers: Either buy a boat with longer hulls and hence greater payload capacity, or live with sub-par performance.

A significant feature of the Gemini is its centerboards, which improve pointing and tacking considerably. Many production catamarans today have fin keels on each hull. The thought here is that the problems inherent with centerboards (broken pennants, jammed boards in the trunk) are eliminated, while acceptable upwind sailing characteristics are retained. This may be true, but there seems no denying that centerboards improve overall performance. Further, the fins add to wetted surface, which increases drag and adversely affect maneuverability.

It is interesting that author Bernard Perret wrote in the October 1990 issue of Cruising World regarding his search for a cruising cat: “We focused in on exactly what we wanted: two sideboards to help us tack more efficiently against the wind and to maintain a shallow draft…”

Having ourselves sailed on production cats without centerboards that were dogs to windward (close reaching was virtually impossible, leaving motorsailing the only option), we consider daggerboards or centerboards an important criteria in selecting a catamaran. Perret said he tacks his French-built 36-foot Naviplane through 115 degrees true, but that’s nothing to write home about. We’re sure he could do better if he wasn’t loaded down with cruising gear for five. Under optimal conditions, Smith says the Gemini can tack through 80 degrees. Burdened with bicycles, computers, three anchors, a library, and food for six months, that number is sure to increase.

A number of owners noted the boat’s lack of directional stability (because there’s not a lot of boat underwater). But they also acknowledged that it is very easy to steer, and that with the lee board down, it balances nicely.

The wide sheeting angle of the early boats made the genoa inefficient upwind. Smith says this has been improved, by means of lengthening the track, in the Gemini 3200.

Gemini 31/3000

Under power, the Gemini performs well. The outboard turns with the rudders for assistance in close quarters—most multihulls need it. And it retracts for sailing. The arrangement has been modified several times over the years.

The current Gemini 3200 comes equipped with a 40-hp. Tohatsu. Some 31 owners felt more power was needed. The results of our recent Reader Survey didn’t rate Tohatsus very highly, but Smith says a 25-inch shaft is very important for maximum performance.

The Mercury 35, standard on Gemini 31s and 3000s, is no longer made. The Tohatsu, he said, is the only engine in that power range available with a 25-inch shaft. In any case, motoring the Gemini at decent speeds, and in comfort, is certainly possible, though punching into head seas isn’t its cup of tea—multis are too light and their motors often too weak to grind out the miles like a heavy, diesel-powered monohull.

Twin Yanmar and Volvo diesels were available, but at such an increase in cost, few buyers would consider them. We’d take the outboard for cost savings, clean interiors, and ease of repair and maintenance. So what if it’s a little noisier? You’ll motor less with a catamaran than your old monohull anyway.

Accommodations

There are numerous appeals to the cruising cat—the large foredeck, large cockpit and the possibility of three or more private sleeping cabins. The Gemini has all three.

The full bridge means there is no netting between the hulls as seen on many cats. This adds weight, but does help deflect waves. From a particularly hedonistic point of view, the netting is best for lying on face down, watching the water fly by. On the other hand, footing is precarious. The full bridge makes anchor handling easier and provides for possibly a little extra stowage space.

The Gemini’s cockpit is large enough to walk around in, with good footing and stowage. Bulkhead wheel steering is convenient whether standing under the so-called pilothouse (added after hull #10), or sitting either on the bench seat or coaming top.

There is not standing headroom in the saloon forward of the 6′ 2″ pilothouse, but this isn’t a major item. Several interior plans have been offered over the years. The one we chartered had a 64″ x 75″ double berth forward in the starboard sector. The view from the bunk looking through the forward windows is stunning! The head with shower was in the port bow and aft, in each hull, was a quarter cabin. The 48″ x 75″ bunks in these weren’t quite as wide as a couple might like, but tolerable, and certainly more than big enough for kids. The nav station was amidships to port and the galley in the starboard hull, with 6′ 3″ headroom. Headroom forward is 6′ 0″ .

An interesting dilemma of outboard-powered boats is the question of generating power for live-aboard conveniences. Outboard engines aren’t able to generate the amps necessary to run a lot of hungry electrical appliances. To combat the problem, Smith has elected to use RV-type propane/12-volt/110-volt refrigerators. These are well suited to multihulls because they work most efficiently when level. LPG, of course, will be the usual energy source for these units, though at the dock shorepower works well. We sailed with a Dometic three-way refrigerator for several years and found them too poorly insulated for 12-volt service.

An instantaneous gas-fired water heater services the Gemini’s shower, which again eliminates the need for electricity.

About the only appliances that must then be accounted for are cabin lights, fans, stereo and pumps. This can be handled by several good quality batteries, though some owners note the need for alternate energy sources. Solar panels, in our experience, can help a great deal, but several fairly large ones will be needed. They are difficult to place where shadows won’t limit performance, and where they aren’t likely to be stepped on. Plus, their life expectancy is depressingly brief—several years in our experience. A better bet, for many cruisers, will be a pole-mounted wind generator capable of producing, say, six to seven amps in 15 to 18 knots of wind.

The Gemini 31 is a comfortable coastal cruiser that benefits from its builder’s undying devotion. The quality of workmanship isn’t what you’ll find in more expensive monohulls or multihulls, but this is also one of the few cruising multihulls that’s affordable to buyers in the $50,000 to $80,000 range—used or new.

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Beware: Gemini’s insanity is actually what ‘bias-free’ AI is all about

Everyone is laughing at the Google Gemini AI rollout. But it’s no joke.

The problem is more nefarious than historically inaccurate generated images.

The manipulation of AI is just one aspect of broader “discrimination by algorithm” being built into corporate America, and it could cost you job opportunities and more.

When Gemini was asked to produce pictures of white people, it refused, saying it couldn’t fulfill the request because it “reinforces harmful stereotypes and generalizations about people based on their race.”

But it had no trouble generating pictures of a female pope, non-white Vikings and a black George Washington.

Microsoft’s AI Imaging tool has its own problems, generating sexually explicit and violent images.

Clearly AI imaging has gone off the rails.

While Google’s CEO admitted Gemini’s results were “biased” and “unacceptable,” that’s not a bug but a feature — much as “anti-racism” theory gave rise to openly racist diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

As one of us (William) recently explained to The Post : “In the name of anti-bias, actual bias is being built into the systems. This is a concern not just for search results, but real-world applications where ‘bias free’ algorithm testing actually is building bias into the system by targeting end results that amount to quotas.”

Our Equal Protection Project ( EqualProtect.org ) sounded the alarm almost a year ago, when we exposed the use of algorithms to manipulate pools of job applicants in LinkedIn’s “Diversity in Recruiting’’ function.

LinkedIn justified the racial and other identity-group manipulation as necessary “to make sure people have equal access” to job opportunities, but what it meant by “equal access” was actually preferential treatment.

Such bias operates in the shadows. Job candidates don’t see how the algorithms affect their prospects.

Algorithms can be — and are — used to elevate certain groups over others.

But it’s not limited to LinkedIn.

The Biden administration has issued an executive order to require bias-free algorithms, but under the progressive DEI rubric built into this policy, the lack of bias is demonstrated not on equal treatment, but on “equity.”

Equity is a codeword for quotas.

In the world of “bias-free” algorithm testing, bias is built-in to achieve equity.

What happened with Gemini is an example of such programming.

It’s one thing to get a bad search result; it’s quite another thing to lose a job opportunity.

As attorney Stewart Baker, an expert on such deck-stacking, explained at an EPP event , “preventing bias . . . in artificial intelligence is almost always going to be code for imposing stealth quotas.”

The insidious reach of “bias-free” bias will grow.

Discrimination by algorithm has the potential to manipulate every major detail of our lives in order to obtain group results and group quotas.

These algorithms are designed to take the scourge of DEI and secretly bring it into every facet of life and the economy.

People are purposely “teaching” AI that images of black Vikings are a more equitable result than the truth.

Because Big Tech already knows a lot about you, including your race and ethnicity, it’s not hard to imagine discrimination by algorithm manipulating access to a host of goods and services.

Get turned down for a job, a loan, an apartment, or college admission? Could be a “bias free” algorithm at work.

But you’ll almost never be able to prove it, because the algorithms operate out of sight and undercover, certified as “bias free” because they build bias into the system to achieve quotas.

You get the picture.

Discrimination by algorithm is a threat to equality and must be stopped.

William A. Jacobson is a clinical professor of law at Cornell and founder of the Equal Protection Project , where Kemberlee Kaye is operations and editorial director.

Beware: Gemini’s insanity is actually what ‘bias-free’ AI is all about

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Gemini Catamaran, new builds?

Discussion in ' Multihulls ' started by willy13 , Sep 12, 2023 .

willy13

willy13 Junior Member

Are Gemini Catamarans still in production? I heard that they closed down during COVID and never started production back up. Looking for a confirmation... Thanks, William  

bajansailor

bajansailor Marine Surveyor

Their website is rather erratic - the home page www.geminicatamarans.com does not work, but this section does, sort of - https://www.geminicatamarans.com/po...e.aspx?SALES_ACTIVITY=New-Catamarans-In-Stock  
I am 99% sure they have stopped production, as I found out because I asked a dealer what the wait time was on a new build. Just hard for me to believe...  
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comfisherman

comfisherman Senior Member

Looked back at the 3 years of my work receipts for projects I did or managed for others. The availability of resin/core was wild as was price variation. Lead times on marine gears, engines let alone electronics. Never mine what the price per hr for a skilled tradesman.... I have a lot of sympathy for an outfit that packed it in and threw up their hands. Even the best call it quits eventually.  

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. Gemini Catamarans

    6. The visibility forward is compromised by having to look through the interior of the boat (and this is especially true as the windows start to age). 7. The side-decks tend to be narrower, making movement fore and aft a little more challenging, especially in heavy conditions.

  2. Gemini Catamarans

    Gemini Catamarans - Problems. I was reading where one guy had a steel bolt break that was holding up one of the swinging keels. ... _____ jcmcdowell 1993 Gemini 3400 Catamaran 12-04-2009, 08:17 #13: Therapy. Registered User . Join Date: Jul 2007. Location: W Florida. Boat: Still have the 33yo Jon boat. But now a CATAMARAN.

  3. The Gemini 105

    I dought the Catamaran Co. is not going to spend money to change the design that is selling all they are making already. Hunter is just contracted to build the Gemini cats not an owner. We love our 02 Gemini 105Mc with the oiled teak interiors sence it can be re-oiled and looks new after lots of use in it's 10 years. We looked at lots of sailboats both monohull and some cats and we compaired ...

  4. Gemini 105Mc

    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.

  5. Gemini 105 MC Review and Owner Interview

    Gemini 105 MC "Kid Cat". As we continue in our series about Gemini catamarans, Melissa interviews Eric from the Gemini Owners Group who owns a Gemini 105 MC called S/V Kid Cat and sails out of Montreal and is planning to go out the St Lawrence in the summer and to the Bahamas maybe next winter. He weighs in with a different perspective on the ...

  6. Our Gemini Catamaran

    The Gemini is also technically 3 feet shorter than the Tayana (34 feet vs. 37) but with the Tayana's bowsprit, it's more like 8 or 9 feet shorter in reality. The lighter weight of the Gemini also makes it much more responsive. And any full keel boat such as the Tayana, in the words of another Tayana owner, "backs like a drunken elephant.".

  7. Gemini 105MC

    Here is the problem. I have the wife buying into the cruising dream but she isn't fond of boats heeling and the narrow beam. ... The current Cruising World has some articles on catamarans and I started thinking about my wife's healing/beam issue. One possibility is the Gemini 105Mc. Found some limited info on the Forums and a recommendation on ...

  8. Gemini Catamarans

    The Gemini is a moderately priced modestly constructed catamaran. Used Geminis generally offer excellent value, outstanding accommodations, and solid sailing performance. There is an active and supportive owners' association and a local builder who is more than willing to support his product. Reviewed in the October 1997 issue of SpinSheet by ...

  9. Gemini 3200 Owner Review and Interview S/V Epiphany Hull # 316

    Key Takeaways and Tips on 3200. Total including purchase price of $55,000 into boat. Renovated interior including painting, trim work, electrical, plumbing, and new windows. Renovated exterior including paint, centerboards, rigging. Previous owner was excellent resource while surveyors need to be carefully selected and monitored.

  10. Gemini 105 Review

    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 ...

  11. Multihull Capsize Risk Check

    Gemini 105mC. In 2018, the 34-foot catamaran was sailing in the Gulf of Mexico under full sail at about 6 knots in a 10-15 knot breeze. Squalls had been reported on the VHF. The crew could see a squall line, and decided to run for cover. Before they could get the sails down, the gust front hit, the wind shifted 180 degrees, and the boat quickly ...

  12. Experience: No Batteries, Big Problems

    Experience: No Batteries, Big Problems. Alan Searle. Updated: Aug 28, 2023. Original: Aug 6, 2019. The moral of the story is to take nothing for granted. Illustration by Jan Adkins. After sailing on Puget Sound and in British Columbia for over 30 years, my wife, Jeri, and I retired to Florida, bought a house on Punta Gorda and worked hard to ...

  13. Gemini Catamarans

    The Gemini will be more lightly built without resorting to exotic materials. The result is an increased tendancy to develop stress cracks (and not just in theory, as witnessed by many including yours truly). 2. The boards, while tending to improve performance, require increased vigilance and maintenance.

  14. Gemini Owners Resources

    The commany that now produces Gemini Catamarans. The original company, Performance Cruising, Inc. was unable to weather the downturn in the boating marked that started with the mortgage crisis in 2008. Some of the people involved went along on the ride through various owners, and are still involved. They still make the newest model Gemini, the ...

  15. Are Gemini Catamarans Good? A Review of Popular Models!

    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 ...

  16. Gemini 31/3000

    It's a problem with no easy answers for live-aboards and long-term cruisers: Either buy a boat with longer hulls and hence greater payload capacity, or live with sub-par performance. A significant feature of the Gemini is its centerboards, which improve pointing and tacking considerably. Many production catamarans today have fin keels on each ...

  17. Gemini Legacy 35

    The Gemini catamaran has been one of the quiet achievers of American boatbuilding, selling solidly through various incarnations that always showcased the twin attractions of affordability and versatility. The latest of these is the Legacy 35, which embodies the most significant changes in the 33-year history of Gemini catamarans. ...

  18. Spider Cracks on Gemini Sailboat

    Posts: 266. Re: Spider Cracks on Gemini Sailboat. Spider cracks can be chased, filled, sanded and painted (or re-gel-coated.) Some will return. Some folks will tell you all boats get them. They can be engineered out, but few builders take the effort. The main cause is that the underlying structure is moving/ flexing etc.

  19. Gemini Legacy 35: Sailing Catamaran, Reborn

    Gemini Legacy 35: Sailing Catamaran, Reborn. Upgraded and revamped, a Gemini catamaran gets a second life under the guidance of Marlow-Hunter. Starting in 1995 under the name Performance Cruising, designer Tony Smith built more than 1,100 105M catamarans in Annapolis, Maryland. The 33' cats had a certain appeal - at 14' on the beam they ...

  20. Gemini Legacy 35

    Location: St. Petersburg, Florida. Boat: Leopard 39. Posts: 860. Re: Gemini Legacy 35. I don't think the cost savings on a new Legacy justify its choice over other (used) production cats, especially after you add on all of the "extras" and consider its size. The Legacy has shaft drives, which some prefer over the Sonic drive leg of its 34 foot ...

  21. Beware: Gemini's insanity is actually what 'bias-free' AI ...

    Everyone is laughing at the Google Gemini AI rollout. But it's no joke. The problem is more nefarious than historically inaccurate generated images. The manipulation of AI is just one aspect of ...

  22. Gemini Catamaran, new builds?

    I am 99% sure they have stopped production, as I found out because I asked a dealer what the wait time was on a new build. Just hard for me to believe... willy13, Sep 13, 2023. #3. Advertisement: Joined: Apr 2009. Posts: 629. Likes: 316, Points: 63, Legacy Rep: 10. Location: Alaska.

  23. Gemini Sillette Drive not "locking" issue

    Re: Gemini Sillette Drive not "locking" issue. There are several things it could be. The T-handle has a knurled nut at the bulkhead. Inside this nut are two plastic compression pieces. If this is tightened it squeezes the handle shaft and makes it difficult or impossible to push all the way in. It needs to be "loose".