Gemini 105 M Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Gemini 105 M's creation is rooted in the extensive multihull development by Performance Cruising, founded by Tony Smith. Production of the 105 M began in 1995 and continued until 2000, during which time 110 units of this specific model were built. This model represented a significant evolution from earlier Gemini catamarans, building upon the successes of the Phoenix, 3000, 3200, and 3400 series. Tony Smith's design philosophy consistently emphasized practical, performance-oriented cruising boats with a focus on livability, ease of handling, and the shallow draft capabilities inherent to catamarans. The 105 M, and its successor the 105 MC, were designed for long-term living for a couple.

A notable design feature first introduced on the 105 M's predecessor, and carried forward, was the innovative lifting under-hung rudder system, which enhances its shallow-draft capability. The builder, Performance Cruising, utilized vacuum-bagged, balsa-cored fiberglass for the hull construction of Gemini catamarans, contributing to their robustness and relatively light displacement of 8,000 lbs. The Gemini 105 MC, introduced in 2003, followed the 105 M, featuring interior updates and a redesigned single interior mold for improved lightness, strength, and rigidity. This iterative design process highlights Tony Smith's commitment to refining the Gemini line based on real-world cruising experiences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While specific performance ratios like Sail Area to Displacement and Ballast to Displacement are not directly applicable in the same interpretive manner as for monohulls, the Gemini 105 M's design offers distinct advantages. Its catamaran hull form, with a reported sail area of 510 square feet and a waterline length of 31.75 feet, contributes to its reputation as a spirited performer. Owners consistently praise its ability to offer a stable platform, reducing the heeling common to monohulls and providing a comfortable motion, even in various sea states.

The Gemini 105 M is known for its ease of handling, a key aspect for cruisers. Its shallow minimum draft of 1.5 feet, achieved with its centerboards raised, allows access to anchorages often inaccessible to deeper-draft vessels. When its centerboards are deployed to their maximum draft of 5.0 feet, the boat gains improved upwind performance. The boat's relatively narrow 14-foot beam for a catamaran also allows it to be tucked into smaller slips or even trailered, offering versatility not often found in other catamarans of its size. Anecdotal evidence suggests the 105 M can be sailed effectively in light air and offers good steerage, particularly when equipped with the optional Westerbeke diesel engine and steerable Sonic Drive propeller, which aids in close-quarters maneuvering.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gemini 105 M is well-conceived, designed to maximize living space within its multihull platform. The layout typically includes a comfortable salon area, a functional galley, a head compartment, and sleeping berths. Owners highlight the spacious and comfortable interior, which often features a light and airy feel due to ample natural light.

Common interior arrangements include a forward cabin, often a V-berth in one hull and a head in the other, with a main salon and galley spanning the bridge deck. The focus is on providing practical amenities for liveaboard couples, with sufficient storage for extended cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design prioritizes a comfortable standing height in key areas, making life aboard more enjoyable. The finish quality often combines fiberglass molding with wood trim, offering a balance of durability and aesthetic appeal, typical of cruising boats of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gemini 105 M generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, often praising their solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway. A recurring theme among owners is the boat's exceptional shallow draft, which allows them to explore areas inaccessible to most other sailboats, such as the shallow waters of the Florida Keys and the Bahamas. Many appreciate the ease of handling, particularly for older couples or those seeking a less physically demanding sailing experience. The 105 M is frequently cited as a good value proposition for those entering catamaran ownership.

However, some common issues or considerations are also noted. While generally praised for its stability, some owners have reported instances of hull slamming in certain average ocean conditions. Owners occasionally mention the need for routine maintenance, such as re-bedding original deck fittings to prevent leaks. The original engine choice, often an outboard, is sometimes swapped for a Westerbeke diesel, which is recommended for better handling, though outboards are preferred by some for simplicity. Despite these points, the active and dedicated community of Gemini owners, supported by groups like the Gemini Catamaran Owners Association (GCOA), underscores the enduring appeal and support network for these boats.