Gemini 105 MC Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The narrative of the Gemini 105 MC begins with Performance Cruising, founded in 1980 by the dedicated seaman and innovative craftsman, Tony Smith, and his wife, Sue. Having successfully pioneered trimaran designs, including the popular Telstar series, Smith pivoted the company's focus to cruising catamarans after a factory fire in 1981 destroyed the Telstar molds. This led to the highly successful Gemini line, which became synonymous with practical, efficient, and comfortable cruising multihulls, emphasizing livability, ease of handling, and crucially, a shallow draft.

The Gemini 105 MC was introduced in 2003, succeeding the acclaimed Gemini 105M. This iteration marked a significant evolution, featuring interior updates and, most notably, a redesigned single interior mold aimed at improving lightness, strength, and rigidity. A key design philosophy of Tony Smith was to create a boat that was "fast for a cruising catamaran" while retaining its cruising comforts. The Gemini line, including the 105 MC, continued the tradition of innovative features like the lifting under-hung rudder system and retractable centerboards, which contribute to its impressive shallow draft capability (ranging from 1.5 feet to 5.5 feet with the boards down). Production of the 105 MC continued until 2011, making it a prominent model in Performance Cruising's long history of building popular cruising catamarans.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gemini 105 MC is renowned for its balanced sailing performance, particularly for a cruising catamaran. With a reported sail area of 690 square feet and a length overall of 33.5 feet, she is designed to be responsive and agile. Owners frequently describe the boat as being fast for a cruising catamaran, capable of good speeds even in lighter air. The catamaran configuration, combined with its relatively light displacement of 8,000 lbs, contributes to its efficient performance.

The retractable centerboards are a defining feature, allowing the boat to reduce its draft to a mere 1.5 feet, making it ideal for exploring shallow anchorages and fitting into slips inaccessible to many monohulls. When deployed, the centerboards improve upwind performance, enhancing the boat's ability to point closer to the wind. The twin rudders provide excellent maneuverability, particularly in close quarters or when docking. While catamarans are generally known for a comfortable, stable ride, some owners note that like other multihulls, the Gemini 105 MC can experience "bridgedeck slamming" in certain sea states, particularly when sailing upwind in larger chop. Overall, its design prioritizes ease of handling and a comfortable motion, appealing to cruisers and those new to multihulls.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length for a catamaran, the Gemini 105 MC is praised for its surprisingly spacious and functional interior layout, often described as a "sailing cottage." The interior typically features a well-appointed main salon that serves as the central living area, offering comfortable seating and often a dinette table. Large windows and hatches generally provide ample natural light and ventilation, contributing to an open and airy feel.

The galley is usually positioned to be convenient and practical, often featuring a stove, oven, sink, and refrigeration, with reasonable counter space and storage for extended cruising. Accommodations typically include two private cabins, often with double berths, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements. The forward cabin usually offers a V-berth configuration, while aft cabins are generally located in the hulls. A dedicated head compartment, often including a marine toilet, sink, and shower, is standard. While specific headroom varies, the overall design aims to maximize usable space, making it a viable option for couples or small families on extended cruises. The interior finish generally utilizes a combination of fiberglass and wood trim, reflecting a practical cruising aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gemini 105 MC consistently praise its affordability, making catamaran ownership accessible to a broader range of sailors. Its shallow draft capability, facilitated by the retractable centerboards and lifting rudders, is a frequently lauded strength, allowing exploration of skinny waters and easier hurricane preparedness. The boat is generally considered well-suited for coastal cruising and offers a comfortable platform for liveaboards, even if only part-time. The stability inherent in a catamaran design, which reduces healing, is also a significant plus for many owners.

However, like any vessel, the Gemini 105 MC has its common considerations. Some owners note that the original engine (often a Westerbeke, which is a marinized Mitsubishi tractor engine) can experience slow speeds under power, though it is generally reliable. While overall construction is solid, some owners mention the need to monitor and address potential leaks around original deck fittings over time, a common maintenance item for boats of this vintage. The vibrant and active Gemini Catamaran Owners Association (GCOA) and various online forums provide a strong community for owners to share knowledge, troubleshoot issues, and enhance the ownership experience, underscoring the enduring popularity and support for this model. 6, 11, 14, Builder Article