Gemini 105Mc

Gemini 105Mc boats are turning heads in the sailing world. These sleek catamarans blend comfort and performance in a unique package. The Gemini 105Mc is a versatile catamaran that offers both spacious living areas and solid sailing capabilities.

Sailors looking for a balance of liveaboard comfort and coastal cruising ability often find themselves drawn to the Gemini 105Mc. This model builds on the success of earlier Gemini designs, adding features like an enclosed cockpit option. The 105Mc's shallow draft allows access to secluded anchorages, while its stable platform makes for comfortable sailing and living aboard.

Key Takeaways

• The Gemini 105Mc combines liveaboard comfort with coastal cruising capabilities
• Its catamaran design offers stability and spacious living areas
• The shallow draft and enclosed cockpit option add versatility for various sailing conditions

Gemini 105Mc Overview

The Gemini 105Mc is a popular catamaran sailboat known for its compact size and smart design. It offers a mix of comfort and performance that appeals to many cruisers.

Design Philosophy

The Gemini 105Mc was created by designer Tony Smith with a clear goal in mind. He wanted to make a catamaran that was easy to handle but still roomy enough for living aboard. The boat has a unique look with its rounded cabin top and large windows.

Smith focused on making the most of the space inside. The saloon area is open and bright. There's a good-sized galley and comfortable sleeping areas.

The cockpit can be closed off with canvas or solid panels. This makes the boat more usable in different weather conditions. It's a smart feature that adds to the boat's versatility.

Specifications

The Gemini 105Mc has some key specs that set it apart:

• Length: 33 feet 5 inches (10.2 meters)
• Beam: 14 feet (4.27 meters)
• Draft: 1 foot 6 inches (0.46 meters)
• Displacement: About 8,000 pounds (3,629 kg)

Its shallow draft is great for exploring coastal areas and anchoring close to shore. The wide beam gives it stability and lots of interior space.

The boat has a simple sail plan with a mainsail and jib. Some owners add a spinnaker for downwind sailing. The mast is fairly short, making bridge clearance less of an issue.

Performance

On the water, the Gemini 105Mc is known for being stable and easy to sail. It's not the fastest catamaran, but it moves well in most conditions.

The boat can reach speeds of 6-8 knots in good winds. It's particularly comfortable sailing at around 45 degrees to the wind. In lighter air, its performance is decent thanks to its relatively light weight.

Owners often praise how easy it is to handle. The helm is responsive, and all lines are led back to the cockpit. This makes single-handed sailing possible.

The boat's stability means it doesn't heel much. This adds to comfort on longer trips. Its shallow draft allows it to access areas that deeper boats can't reach.

On Deck Features

The Gemini 105Mc offers a spacious deck layout with key features for comfortable sailing and living aboard. The cockpit and helm area provide ample room for crew, while the rigging and sail setup allow for easy handling.

Cockpit Amenities

The Gemini 105Mc's cockpit is a standout feature. It's roomy enough for a small group to gather comfortably. The helm station gives the skipper a clear view of the sails and surroundings.

There's plenty of seating for relaxing or entertaining guests. Storage lockers under the seats keep gear dry and organized. The cockpit can be fully enclosed, making it usable in various weather conditions.

A sturdy traveler spans the aft beam, allowing for precise mainsail control. The mainsheet system is easily accessible from the helm. This setup lets one person handle most sailing tasks without leaving the cockpit.

Rigging and Sails

The Gemini 105Mc sports a simple yet effective rig. Its mast height is designed to clear the Intracoastal Waterway bridges, making it great for coastal cruising. The boat typically carries a fully-battened mainsail and a roller-furling genoa.

The deck layout makes sail handling straightforward. All lines lead back to the cockpit, so the crew can manage sails without going forward in rough seas. The genoa tracks are positioned for easy trimming.

For downwind sailing, many owners add a spinnaker or gennaker. These sails boost performance in light air. The foredeck has enough space to work with larger sails when needed.

Ground tackle is well-managed with a bow roller and anchor locker. This setup keeps the deck clear and makes anchoring less of a chore.

Interior Highlights

The Gemini 105Mc offers cozy living spaces and practical amenities in a compact catamaran layout. Its clever design maximizes usable room while providing essential comforts for extended cruising.

Accommodations

The 105Mc sleeps up to 6 people across 3 cabins. The main cabin has a double berth and converts to a dining area. Two aft cabins each fit a double bed. A small head with toilet and shower is located amidships. Storage lockers are built into cabin walls and under berths. The saloon provides a bright living space with large windows. Headroom ranges from 6'2" to 6'4" throughout most of the interior.

Galley Features

The galley is equipped for basic meal prep. It includes:

• 2-burner propane stove
• Small refrigerator
• Double sink
• Storage cabinets
• Countertop workspace

The L-shaped layout keeps everything within easy reach while cooking. A fold-down table extends dining space into the cockpit. The galley's compact design reflects the 105Mc's focus on efficiency in a modest-sized cruising catamaran.

Propulsion and Power

The Gemini 105Mc offers versatile propulsion options and electrical systems to meet various sailing needs. Owners can choose between diesel engines or electric motors for propulsion.

Engine Specifications

The standard engine for the Gemini 105Mc is a Westerbeke diesel. This reliable 27 hp diesel engine provides ample power for cruising and maneuvering. It's compact and fuel-efficient, making it well-suited for extended voyages.

Some models feature an upgraded 30 hp diesel for extra power. The diesel engines are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements.

Electric propulsion is also available as an option. The QuietTorque 10.0 Sport electric motor offers 10 kW of power. It's designed for boats up to 35 feet long and 12,000 lbs displacement.

Electrical Systems

The Gemini 105Mc has a 12-volt DC electrical system. It includes a 55-amp alternator to charge the batteries while the engine runs. Most boats have two or more deep-cycle marine batteries for house power.

Some models feature solar panels to supplement battery charging. These panels help extend time at anchor without running the engine.

The electrical panel is centrally located for easy access. It has circuit breakers for all onboard systems. Many owners add inverters to power AC devices from the DC system.

Navigation and Electronics

The Gemini 105Mc comes equipped with essential navigation and electronics at the helm. Many boats feature a Garmin chartplotter, typically around 12 inches in size. This allows for easy route planning and monitoring.

Radar and AIS systems are often integrated, enhancing safety and situational awareness. These tools help spot other vessels and obstacles, especially in low visibility conditions.

VHF radios are standard, enabling communication with other boats and shore stations. Some owners upgrade to newer models for improved clarity and features.

Autopilot systems are popular additions, making longer journeys more manageable. They can maintain course while the crew attends to other tasks.

Depth sounders and wind instruments provide crucial data for safe sailing. This information helps with navigation and sail trimming.

Many 105Mc owners opt to update electronics over time. Newer units offer touchscreens, wireless connectivity, and improved user interfaces.

Battery management systems are important for powering these devices. Some boats have dedicated house batteries for electronics to ensure reliability.

The compact helm area means careful placement of screens and controls. This allows for easy viewing and operation while underway.

Safety and Durability

The Gemini 105Mc puts safety first with its sturdy hull design. Built to handle rough waters, this catamaran keeps passengers secure in various conditions.

Its twin-hull setup adds stability, reducing the risk of capsizing. This feature gives peace of mind to sailors exploring new waters.

Ground tackle on the 105Mc is robust and reliable. The boat comes equipped with strong anchors and chains to keep it in place during stops.

The design includes high railings around the deck. These protect crew members from falling overboard in choppy seas or strong winds.

Inside, handholds are placed strategically throughout the cabin. They allow for safe movement when the boat is in motion.

Emergency equipment is easily accessible on the Gemini 105Mc. Life jackets, flares, and first aid kits are stored in clearly marked locations.

The boat's electrical systems are well-insulated and protected from water damage. This reduces fire risks and ensures key systems stay operational.

Durability is a key feature of the 105Mc's construction. High-quality materials resist wear and tear from saltwater and sun exposure.

Regular maintenance is simple on this model. Easy access to critical components helps owners keep their boat in top shape for years to come.

Ownership Experience

Gemini 105Mc boats offer unique adventures and comfortable living spaces. Owners appreciate the vessel's versatility for both travel and full-time living.

Adventure and Travel

The Gemini 105Mc shines as a platform for exciting journeys. Its shallow 18-inch draft allows access to secluded anchorages and remote beaches. Many owners cruise coastal waters and explore inland waterways with ease.

The boat handles well in various conditions. Some have even crossed the Atlantic Ocean in their Geminis. The catamaran design provides stability, making long passages more comfortable.

Owners often praise the boat's fuel efficiency when motoring. This extends the cruising range and keeps operating costs down. The spacious cockpit and wide decks make sailing and relaxing enjoyable for couples and small groups.

Living Aboard

The Gemini 105Mc's layout works well for full-time living. The main salon offers an open feel with good headroom. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light.

The galley has enough space for meal prep. Most models include a refrigerator, stove, and ample storage. The forward cabin provides privacy, while the aft cabins can serve as guest rooms or storage areas.

Owners appreciate the boat's ability to fit in standard marina slips. This makes long-term docking more affordable than with larger catamarans. The electrical systems can support modern amenities like air conditioning and entertainment devices.

Many live-aboards customize their Geminis with solar panels and water makers for extended cruising or anchoring out.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Gemini 105Mc is a popular catamaran with unique traits. Buyers often ask about its features, performance, and living space.

What are the distinctive features of the Gemini 105Mc catamaran?

The Gemini 105Mc has an 18-inch draft, making it great for shallow waters. It fits in a regular boat slip, unlike many catamarans.

The boat uses a QuietTorque 10.0 electric motor. This 10kW system works well for day sailing and coastal trips.

Where can one find Gemini 105Mc boats available for purchase?

Gemini 105Mc boats can be found through yacht brokers and online marketplaces. Performance Cruising built over 1,000 of these cats, so used ones pop up often.

Owners tend to be regular folks rather than charter companies. This can mean well-cared-for boats on the market.

What should you consider when buying a used Gemini 105Mc sailboat?

Check the hull number to know the boat's age. Look at the engine hours and overall wear.

Ask if the boat did the Great Loop. Many Geminis have, which can mean more miles but also a well-tested vessel.

How does the Gemini 105Mc perform under sail?

The Gemini 105Mc sails well in most conditions. It's good for the Chesapeake Bay, Intracoastal Waterway, and Bahamas.

In short, steep waves like the "Caribbean Two Step," it can struggle. The boat's size and weight affect its handling in rough seas.

What maintenance and upkeep are required for a Gemini 105Mc?

Regular checks of the electric motor system are key. The shallow draft means less underwater surface to clean.

Owners should inspect sail condition often. The twin hulls need routine checks for any damage or wear.

What are the living accommodations like aboard the Gemini 105Mc?

The Gemini 105Mc offers cozy living spaces for its size. It has sleeping areas in both hulls.

The main cabin provides a central gathering spot. Galley and head facilities meet the needs of day sailing or extended cruising.