Gemini 3200 Information, Review, Specs

The Gemini 3200 was produced by Performance Cruising Inc. from 1990 to 1993, representing a significant evolution in the successful Gemini catamaran line. Designed by company founder Tony Smith, the 3200 built upon the foundations of the earlier Gemini 3000. Smith's overarching philosophy was to create cruising catamarans that were accessible to a wide audience, balancing affordability with functionality. His designs consistently focused on delivering practical, efficient, and comfortable cruising multihulls, with a strong emphasis on livability, ease of handling, and the ability to access shallow waters.

A key difference between the 3200 and its predecessor, the 3000, was an increase in hull length above the waterline, which translated to added interior space, 24]. Performance Cruising also incorporated a layer of vinylester resin into the hull lay-up of the Gemini 3200, a measure aimed at mitigating issues like osmotic blistering, reflecting the builder's commitment to continuous improvement in construction. The 3200 maintains a masthead sloop rig, a choice that offers simplicity in its sail plan.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of nearly 32 feet (31.99 ft) and a waterline length of 27.49 feet, the Gemini 3200 is designed for comfortable cruising rather than outright speed. The vessel features a lightweight displacement of 7,000 pounds, contributing to its shallow draft capabilities. A hallmark of the Gemini design, the 3200 is equipped with both kick-up centerboards and transom-hung kick-up rudders. This innovative system allows the catamaran to reduce its draft significantly to a minimum of 1.51 feet, enabling access to shallow anchorages and marinas often inaccessible to monohulls and deeper-draft catamarans. Owners generally report satisfactory performance, highlighting its user-friendly nature for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Gemini 3200 is renowned for offering a surprisingly spacious feel for a boat of its length, sharing a similar volume and layout with the earlier 3000 model but benefiting from the increased hull length for additional space. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design prioritizes livability, providing a functional layout expected of a cruising catamaran. The boat is equipped with a water capacity of 60 gallons. Owners have noted that the interior is amenable to renovation and customization, with efforts often including updates to painting, trim work, electrical systems, plumbing, and windows.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Gemini 3200 as a smart and budget-friendly option for cruising, often praising its comfortable and capable nature. The consensus among owners points to a boat that is enjoyable to sail and well-suited for its intended purpose as a family cruiser. Many owners appreciate the shallow draft afforded by the kick-up rudders and centerboards, which significantly expands their cruising grounds. While specific common problems were not detailed, owners undertaking refits often focus on updating older systems such as electrical and plumbing, as well as cosmetic improvements like painting and trim. The addition of vinylester resin in the 3200's hull construction aimed to prevent osmotic blistering, suggesting a design improvement over earlier models that may have experienced such issues.