Issue #105, Apr 2009

Volume 105
April 2009
Gemini 105M, Hull 559, owned by Eric Booton
on the St. Lucie River near Stuart Florida
Editors: Mark & Louise Kiehl
Contributing Editors for this issue: Jim Fish, Jim Faughn, Capt. Bill Schardt, Bill Scarpino, Laura Hershfeld, Sandy Graves, Ron
Adkins.
At present, over 1000 Gemini catamarans are in existence worldwide, spanning five major model revisions. In the
interest of extending support to owners, Performance Cruising will be offering several new channels of service, with
some of that delivered directly through Gemini Gems. Over the next few months, we will begin offering the following
new content:
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Articles and technical bulletins from Performance Cruising.
An online moderated forum that will include feedback from Performance Cruising.
It has now been a year since I took over the newsletter from Jill & Tim Argie. At this point I have been through a
complete business cycle in terms of publishing newsletters, processing memberships, and taxes. The data I collected enabled me to review the newsletter balance sheet. What I found is that despite the fact that I receive no compensation for my time, we are now operating at a loss. .
Last year at this time the business was not generating a loss, however a lot has changed since then. Printing and
postage, our largest expenses, have increased dramatically. We are also losing money on every burgee we sell. A
very small profit is realized on the recently released floor mats that you can purchase at a discounted rate. We make
nothing on any apparel you can purchase directly from Land's End.
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Despite the increase in expenses, I feel the value to the members has increased substantially. We have worked hard
to solicit high quality newsletter content. The web site provides many new functional features to assist members attempting to locate information quickly. Classified ads now feature pictures online, and members can create/delete/
edit them on their own. As of this issue, all of the past newsletters are available online with pictures. Article titles and
keywords are indexed and categorized so that you can quickly identify articles of a specific type (rendezvous, operational, maintenance, upgrades, destination, etc.).
Effective this issue we are restructuring Gemini Gems in order to address the financial losses and to promote the additional content from Performance Cruising:
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The new price for the printed newsletter and online resources will be $39/year. Existing web and newsletter subscribers will be grandfathered in.
The printed and online newsletter will continue to be issued quarterly (Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct). Back issues of newsletters published after this issue will be available for purchase in electronic format (pdf) at $10 each.
The annual directory will be published in printed and online form in February.
Classified advertisements are free for up to 4 issues (1 year), thereafter $9/ea. In order to allocate more newsletter space for articles, boat ads will be abbreviated to a simple list in the printed newsletter (full ads can be viewed
online). Non-boat ads will be included as usual but with length restrictions.
Members who contribute an article will receive credit of one issue (3 months) per full final edited page.
A few other changes will be implemented in the interest of allowing me to focus on newsletter editing and publication:
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Passwords resets have been simplified and you can do it yourself very easily by simply entering your login email
(the email address associated with your account). You are provided real time feedback if the login email you enter is correct or not. You can revise and manage your login email by logging in and editing your profile. I will
continue to respond to email requests for an unknown login email.
Privacy options. You now have privacy options that allow you to choose to not share your street address, email
and phone number with other members online, in the annual printed directory, and with Performance Cruising
Inc. You can revise these options by logging in to your account online and modifying your profile.
Classified. You can create a classified ad yourself online and even add a picture. All classified ads must be
'renewed' by clicking on an email link sent to you automatically 30 days before the next issue is released, otherwise they will not be included in the next printed issue or online. You may also denote the item as sold, cancel
the ad, or you may edit the ad.
Questions/comments: [email protected]
Mark Kiehl
2
New Owners
Hull 134, , KNOT II SHABBY, Jeff
McKnight, Malabar FL, formerly owned
by Larry Jarosch of Miami FL.
Hull 633, BETSY MARIE, Tom & Lisa
Bullock, Leadville CO, formerly SERENDIPITY owned by Morgan Hall.
Hull 762, SPUTNIK, Stan Sargent,
Grand Bahama Is.Bahamas, formerly
WIND DRUM owned by Rich & Kathleen Walker.
Hull 787, PLAN B, Carl Mahany, formerly ERIN_DITA owned by Tom
Harner.
Hull 860, SLAPDASH Seth & Jaime
Lennea', formerly WINGIN IT.
Hull 1051, LAURYN D VII, Brain &
Cindy Leiding, Naples FL
Hull 962, Archie Thomas, Naples FL.
Hull 1053, Gilbert Prieto & Raymond
Navarre, Helendale CA.
Hull 1005, WINDWALKER, Rich
Moore, Savannah GA.
Hull 1057, Eric Crain, Guilford CT
Hull 1015, Jens Heiberg MD, Copenhagen Denmark.
Hull 1058, BOBCAT, John and Susan
Ramsaur, Hockessin DE
Hull 1041, Merrick and Margaret
Teichman, Charleston SC
Hull 1059, John Kozel, Elkton MD
Hull 1050, KNIGHTS GAMBIT, Alan &
Patricia Knight, Ankeny IA.
Boats that were Renamed
Hull 330, SANDE BELL, Happ & Deb
Harrison, formerly THORA
Hull 393, JAMIEDHU, James Owens, formerly LILY
Ownership Corrections To Annual Directory
Hull 175, OPUSS, Tim Tryon.
Hull 311, BLO MEE, owned by Phil &
Linda Waste.
Hull 540, PILGRIMAGE, owned by Bob
& Jennie Christenson
Hull 330, Happ & Deb Harrison, formerly
THORA owned by Charles & Ruth Divver Sandefur
Hull 839, SOLAR PENGUIN, Melanie &
Bill Douglas, Victoria BC Canada.
Hull 208, VALHALLA, Ken Brindle.
Hull 219, LIBERTY, Tom & Vicki Watkins, formerly owned by Bennet & Yvette
Jones.
Hull 309, CALYPSO CAT, Dan & Jan
Sitarz, formerly MELISSA SUE.
Hull 520, JOJO, owned by Seth & Joanne
Sheriff
Hull 1040, WHISKERS, Armando G
Mendive.
Member Corrections To Annual Directory
Alexander, Meg Banitch & Ellen
15 Tuers Pl
Montclair NJ 07043-2546 USA
Berth: Kongju City
Culp, Richard & Karen
PO Box 697
Heathsville VA 22473-0697
Phone: 804-580-4153
Boat name: KALILA-R III
Berth: Heathsville VA
Spencer, John & Brenda
212 Nepahwin Ave
Sudbury Ontario P3E 2HS Canada
Boat name: CHAT DE L EAU
Berth: Saint Pete Beach FL
Wesson, jr, Thomas W
157 Kirksey Road
Mantachie MS 38855 USA
Phone: 662-842-3712
gemini gems members
8% OFF
GCOA Burgees
To purchase a burgee, send $35
USD to: Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC, 16 Solly Lane
Bernville, PA 19506
919A Bay Ridge Rd
Annapolis, MD 21403
Tel 410-267-0850 / 800-422-5977
Fax 410-267-8020
[email protected]
3
2009 Performance Cruising Owners Rendezvous
Annapolis, MD
Who:
Anyone
When: Memorial Day weekend, May 22-25, rain or shine
Where: Performance Cruising Inc. (PCI)
7364 Edgewood Rd
Annapolis MD 21403 USA
http://www.performancecruising.com/
N38 57.5 W 76 29.0
Cost:
$25/pp (payable to Performance Cruising Inc.)
Event Highlights
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Gemini Race / Rally
•
PCI Seminars
•
PCI Happy Hour & Dinner
•
Gemini Show & Tell
•
Dinghy race
•
Pot Luck Dinner
RSVP: Online: http://www.performancecruising.com/
By
May 9th
or Laura Hershfeld @ 410-626-2720
Itinerary
Friday May 22nd - Sponsored by Gemini Gems
• Boats may begin arriving at the Performance
Cruising Inc. docks after 5pm. Capacity is 20
boats, first come, first serve basis. Alternate is to
anchor in Back Creek. Arrivals organized by Bill
Schardt, contact via cell ph 443-852-0105 or VHF
ch 68 as Captain Bill. Please do not wander factory grounds or buildings.
• 6:00 pm Hors d'oeuvre's. Bring something to
share (food) and your own drinks.
Sunday May 24th - Sponsored by Gemini Gems
• 9:00 am. Devotional
• 10:00 am. Brunch - Bring something to share.
• 11:30 am. Show & Tell This is when we share
all of our tips on upgrades, maintenance tips, operational tips, etc. Don’t be shy, everyone has
something to share. At the same time we will be
having a Trash & Treasure Sale - put up for sale
those items you are ready to part with.
• 2:00 pm Dinghy race (driver is blind folded,
mate provides direction/course. o/b motor power).
• 6:00 pm Pot Luck dinner. Everyone brings a
covered dish to share.
Saturday May 23rd - Sponsored by PCI
• 8:30 am. Morning coffee and doughnuts at the
PCI tent and organization of teams for race/rally.
• 9:30 am. Depart docks to head out for race/rally.
• 10:00 am. Start of race/rally.
• 12:30 pm. Lunch on your own.
• 2:00 pm. PCI seminars.
• 5:00 pm. PCI Happy hour
• 6:00 pm. PCI Catered dinner
• 8:00 pm. Awards ceremony for race/rally
Monday May 25th
Please clear the PCI docks by Monday evening
•
Everyone is invited, Gemini owners, Gemini Gems members,
and those interested in buying a Gemini.
RSVP by May 9th: Performance Cruising Inc.
Online: http://www.performancecruising.com/component/
content/article/21-contact-info/75-pci-rendezvous-2009
Or call Laura Hershfeld @ 410-626-2720
4
Spinnaker Use on a 3400
By Jim Fish, FISH TALES, Hull 442
In March of 2008 I purchased a spinnaker and related
hardware for my Gemini 3400 FISH TALES. The
asymmetrical pole-less cruising spinnaker is from
UK-Halsey (http://www.ukhalsey.com/sails/
triflasher.asp). They call the spinnaker the ‘Flasher’,
and it is available in two construction styles - The
Matrix and Tri-Radial. The cost was about $1,600,
including everything but the halyard.
View of the UK-Halsey ’Stasher’ sock.
A spinnaker masthead crane was added
to the top front side of the masthead,
forward of the existing roller furling to
accommodate the spinnaker halyard. .
The fish head logo was added to the sail by UKHalsey using an AutoCAD drawing I provided.
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The halyard layout picture shows the setup.
The tack of the sail is on a six foot line tied
off to the base of the existing genoa bracket.
This allows the crew, with two additional
lines, to pull the tack to port or starboard in
the middle of the jibe. With the sock, the
Flasher can be set, trimmed and lowered by
one person and an autopilot.
year) per ad, thereafter $9 per issue or additional ad. Ads for Gemini
catamarans are published in the newsletter as an abbreviated list (full
ads available online). Non-Gemini ads in the newsletter are limited in
length.
Memberships
Memberships are $39/yr for printed newsletter and online resources.
You can renew your membership online at www.gemcats.net and pay
using PayPal (preferred), or mail a check payable to Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC, 16 Solly Lane, Bernville PA 19506.
All prices are in USD.
Contribute an article or a picture for the cover and receive credit for
one issue (3 months) for each final edited full page printed.
GEMINI GEMS is published quarterly in January, April, July, and October. The annual directory is published in February.
DISCLAIMER: We assume no responsibility for ideas, suggestions or
advice contained in this newsletter. Contributions are made in the spirit
of sharing opinions and experiences. Use at your own risk.
All back issues prior to July 2009 are available for download by members at http:/www.geminigems.net. A CD with all past issues may be
purchased for $15.
All back issues after April 2009 may be downloaded online at $10/ea.
Email your comments, questions, suggestions, articles, favorite pictures of your boat, and concerns to [email protected]
Classified advertisements are free to members for up to 4 issues (1
Copyright © 2009 Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC,
6
Replacing the Transmission - Gemini 105M
By Jim Faughn, FREEDOM, Hull 536, 105M
came forward first, keeping the transmission low, in
order for removal to be realized. There is only about
1/8 inch clearance on each side. The engine was successfully removed and rested on cardboard in the cockpit.
I encountered a problem with the engine speed, changing from 2650 up to 2750 and back down again. Originally this was sporadic, but in October of 2007, it became more frequent with a larger RPM change.
After checking the engine and changing the oil in the
transmission several times, I began to believe the
transmission clutch was slipping. Sailcraft Service in
Oriental, NC confirmed my diagnosis. Unfortunately,
you can't easily rebuild the transmission on the Gemini, as parts are hard to find in the US. After many
phone calls by Sailcraft, Phil found the only part available in the US, unless I wanted to wait at least 12
weeks. Since I did not wish to wait, the part was obtained from Torrenson Marine, as they took it off a
new engine transmission set.
The engine successfully removed and resting on cardboard.
There were several issues that I intended to address
while the engine was out. We removed the transmission along with the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger needed to be cleaned, and I had to free-up the
The engine and transmission had to be tilted just right in
bolt on which the alternator pivots. With the cleaning
order to remove them from the engine compartment.
completed, I could see a difference in the water flow
and was happy we chose to do the job. I also had purchased a new starter, planning to use it as a spare.
I moved my boat to Sailcraft Service and spent the af- However when we took the old one off, seeking access
ternoon disconnecting everything from the engine, pre- to the transmission, we found it was a difficult job due
paring it for removal. I enlisted my mechanic Eric, for- to access limitations. Consequently, I decided to install
merly a Porsche and Mercedes mechanic. We worked the new one while on land, keeping the old one as the
as a team to remove the engine from FREEDOM, util- spare. Hopefully I will not have to do this while underway.
izing a chain on the lift points after removing all the
motor mounts. The positioning was critical, the engine
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since it was easily accessible.
Three hours in to the project, the transmission and heat
exchanger now looked great after a fresh coat of paint.
While the engine was out, I cleaned the compartment
with bleach to remove old stains. Approximately 24
hours later, we had the engine and the transmission
back in, and in another hour we had the engine aligned
and had tightened down the motor mounts. We replaced the rear mounts, as one of them was bad.
In the picture above you can see the new transmission bell
housing to the left and the old one to the right. Other than a
little grease on the old unit, no difference between them.
We found some other issues while the engine was out.
The port side of the transmission hose showed wear.
Ultimately we found that the port side motor mount
was very close to the hose, resulting in this wear spot.
We replaced the hose and added chafe protection. If
you are a Gemini owner, you may want to check the
wear and add chafe protection as well. I also found the
exhaust hose was going bad, when I removed the 45
Old (left) and freshly painted replacement (right)..
degree elbow that I was replacing. I had already purchased a new elbow, based on the recommendation
from Westerbeke, installing it along with the exhaust The next day I reinstalled all the hoses and electrical
hose. In addition, I also replaced the vibration dampconnections. Shortly thereafter, I had the engine runener plate between the engine and the transmission
ning again. Since I had to drain all the antifreeze, I
spent almost an hour getting rid of all the air locks in
the block by filling, running, stopping, filling, etc. I
finally had it all working great. As you can see in the
photograph, the electrical connections in the lower
right, had corrosion on them. To alleviate future issues,
I applied dielectric grease on the same. I also found
two more places where I added chafe protection
(rubber held by wire ties); the throttle and stop cables
Additionally I found the raw water intake line could
rub on the starboard aft motor mount, so I added rubber protection on that hose as well. The new engine
motor mounts were aligned perfectly in the horizontal,
and under three thousandths in the vertical.
In retrospect, I did several things which made the project easier. First, I took many pictures of all the items.
Wear spot found on the port transmission hose.
8
View of the engine compartment requiring reinstallation of
hoses and electrical connections.
Second, I used cardboard to line the cockpit, which
really saved on clean up time. Third, I found a company that would allow me to work along with their mechanic, in order to reduce cost.
Since the repair, we have been to the Bahamas, Key
West, back to Kentucky Lake for hurricane season,
and we are now spending the winter in Key West. Everything is still working fine. You can see more about
our adventures at www.jfaughn.com.
Engine compartment minus the engine and transmission
after cleaning it with bleach..
Performance Cruising Extends Parts Department
By Laura Hershfeld, Performance Cruising Inc.
Performance Cruising is pleased to announce our expanded parts department!
We will be announcing our online parts store in the
upcoming months. Until that time, please call the factory at 410-626-2720 and request the parts department,
or email us at [email protected]. Acceptable payment options are check or credit card, and
PCI will be able to ship to your specific location.
Lost a winch handle overboard? Time to replace your
cushions or blinds? Need to replace your windows or
desire a new dinghy? Ready to upgrade your sails?
Anything you may want for your Gemini cruising catamaran; replacement needs, maintenance, or simply de- PCI is excited to offer this new feature to our valuable
sire new, we are able to provide it for you, factory di- customers. Again, we are just a phone call/email away,
rect. Printed documentation and/or videos (specific
for any of your needs. www.performancecruising.com
items only) are available for your installation needs.
9
Captain’s Corner
Top Ten Reminders For Spring Commissioning
By Capt. Bill Schardt, CATNIP, Hull 892
1. If you removed the raw water impeller, last fall,
inspect it and reinstall it before you attempt to start
the engine.
2. Remove any rags from the intake and exhaust.
3. Check the fluid levels in the engine, transmission
and drive leg and top off as necessary with the
proper fluids. Before adding any fluid to the transmission, make sure that you know which transmission you have and what fluid to use. There is an
identification plate next to the transmission dipstick that will identify your transmission type.
Your Westerbeke Owner’s Manual will have the
correct fluid type for your transmission. You need
to check your own, because Westerbeke has used
several different transmissions for the Gemini.
4. Check the condition of the engine zinc and replace
if necessary.
5. Ensure that all batteries onboard are topped off
with distilled water and fully charged.
6. Inspect and grease all fittings on the outdrive leg.
Make sure that the reverse latch is operating
smoothly and apply a liberal amount of grease to
all moving parts.
7. Inspect all through hull fittings for leaks and ease
of operation and make sure they are in the proper
position to operate the boat.
8. Check the expiration dates on any safety equipment such as flares and ensure that the pressure
gauge on fire extinguishers is reading ok.
9. Inspect all of your running lights for proper operation.
10. Start the engine and inspect the exhaust for the
presence of water.
Oh, and #11. Release the spring line before leaving
the dock. :-)
Fair winds and following seas,
Capt. Bill
Captain Bill Schardt, holds a United States Coast Guard, 50 ton
Master License is owner of Catnap, a 2005 Gemini105Mc He runs
Annapolis Sailing Solutions out of Annapolis, Md. Capt. Bill can
be reached at [email protected]
Go to our e-store at the Land's End Business Outfitters:
http://ces.landsend.com/geminigems
Shop for your item(s). After you ad an item to your shopping cart, you will be
provided with a logo option. Click the 'Logo 1' drop down box and select
'Gemini Gems logo'. Then select the where you want the logo to appear on
your item using the drop down box 'Location 1:'. Ignore the option 'apply second logo'. You can then click on 'keep shopping' or 'continue'. You will select
embroidery thread colors later. When you are ready to checkout, click on your
'Shopping Bag' at the top right of the screen. If you have multiple items, write
down the Item # for each, otherwise continue. Now tell Lands End your logo
Gemini Gems Apparel
embroidery colors for each item by clicking on the link 'Special Requests' located under the Shopping Bag page title on the left.
In the Optional Order Instructions, list each item # and enter one of the following logo embroidery thread color set choices based on
your fabric color:
• Light fabric (not blue): Tile Blue #1177 for text 'gemini gems'; Black #1000 for boat graphic and text 'Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC'.
•
Dark fabric: Tile Blue #1177 for text 'gemini gems'; White #1801 for boat graphic and text 'Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC'.
•
Blue fabric: White #1801 for text 'gemini gems'; Black #1000 for boat graphic and text 'Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC'.
Click on 'proceed to checkout' when you are done shopping to complete checkout.
10
Facnor Mast Furled Main
By Bill Scarpino, DOUBLEWIDE, Hull 623
OK, I did it. I opted for ease of use and safety. I installed a Facnor behind-the-mast furled main.
In retrospect it was a good decision. The boat is
cleaner at anchor. I no longer have to wash the bird
droppings off the canvas cover. No longer have to replace the canvas cover. No longer have to wrestle it on
as it shrinks over time. Not big issues I agree!
Safety first! Reefing is quite flexible as you can set the
sail at any position from fully extended to completely
reefed. The lines control the sail very well so, once set
they can hold the sail on a stiff breeze.
As with any reefing, the rule is to reef early before you
need to do so. You also need to come into the wind
and hold on that bearing while the reef is taken.
How does she sail? Good question. Here is my experience. With a following sea of 6-8 feet and a wind 120
degrees off the bow at 20-25 knots Doublewide
reached as high as 11.25 knots on the downside of the
swells (some felt like waves!). In general we were
holding a pretty healthy 8.5 to 9 knots. Upwind in 2-4
foot swells and 12-15 knots of breeze 6 to 6.5 has been
my typical experience.
Yes, the sail area has been reduced a bit but I like the
convenience and safety of the furling system. I don’t
feel I have given up much in the way of speed and no
discernable loss in the ability to point. It will work
even better when I replace the sail with a slightly
lighter fabric.
Editor’s note: The furled mainsail is contained in a
housing section attached to the mast sail track. The
installed housing requires no alteration to the mast
and the original main sail may be used. For more
information, see http://www.facnor.com
11
Upper Chesapeake Bay Destinations - Chestertown
By Mark Kiehl, SEAS TODAY, Hull 649
Every summer sailing season on the Upper Chesapeake Bay, I try to visit somewhere new. Based on the
weather and length of our time off, we decided to explore the Chester River and Chestertown last summer.
As we began our sail up the Chester River, bad
weather was approaching, so I ducked into the Corsica
creek to anchor in a safe location. This creek had been
on my short list of recommended stops by other cruisers, and I was not disappointed. The scenery was very
pretty, and the homes sparsely located along the shoreline were impressive as well.
Chestertown located at 39°13′10″N 76°4′6″
W / 39.21944°N 76.06833°W (39.219328, 76.068424) is a small town on the East side of the Upper Chesapeake Bay, an approximate 24 nm trip from Within the first 12 nm of the mouth of the Chester
the mouth of the Chester River.
River are a number of smaller rivers and creeks for the
cruiser to explore.
Chestertown
Chestertown
Langford Creek
Corsica River
Grays Inn Creek
Reed Creek
Chester River
The Chester River
Source: Openstreetmap.org, http://openstreetmap.org/?lat=39.097&lon=-76.111&zoom=11&layers=B000FTF
Rainbow observed while at
anchor on Corsica River.
Source: Map courtesy of the US Federal Government
We departed from Middle River, two rivers North of
Baltimore (Patapsco) and arrived at the mouth of the
Chester River late afternoon. The weather predicted
possible thunderstorms, so I watched the weather radar
carefully using my mobile telephone’s internet capability.
12
The next morning we began our adventure up the
Chester River toward Chestertown. As we traversed
up the river, it became more and more narrow. We
enjoyed observing the many beautiful estates and the
interesting boats we passed along the way.
As we walked around Chestertown, we noted a number
of visitors by land. It appears that tourism is an important industry to the town and it is well supported with
interesting shops, restaurants, and lodging.
Just prior to noon we arrived at Chestertown. You
cannot go up the river any further than this point due to
a bridge just east of Chestertown. A fuel dock and a
couple of marinas are available.
This was one of the few marinas we spotted along our trip up the Chester River. It is called Rolph’s Warf and it appeared to have
numerous amenities in this five acre property including a fuel dock, slips, lift, beach, and a Victorian Inn called ‘River Inn’. Address: 1008 Rolph's Wharf Road. Latitude 39.17388 Longitude -76.03266
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Chestertown street map. Many of the shops and restaurants on
or just off high street, a few blocks from the waterfront.
Source: Openstreetmap.org, http://openstreetmap.org/?lat=39.21067&lon=-76.06401&zoom=15&layers=B000FTFT
14
Master Stateroom Overhead Reading Light Options
By Sandy Graves, LILY PAD, Hull 944
Installing overhead individual reading lights in the
master stateroom of a 105Mc is somewhat of a challenge. Ideally you could lug off the existing overhead
12V light, however the wiring runs behind the liner,
and finding a way to make an attractive installation
from that is the problem.
a lighting area above your head and out of the way,
that allows three different uses; 1) reading lights used
separately or simultaneously, 2) operate the deck lights
from your bed, 3) utilize the red night light anytime in
combination with the previously mentioned.
Since you rarely would
need both interior reading
lights and deck lights simultaneously, you can
elect to obtain their power
from the same source by
running the wires through
a three-way switch. The
deck light switch at the
master electrical panel is
left in the "on" position
continuously, unless you
need to disrupt the power
for maintenance. The red
night light is lugged off
the power source and is
controlled by a distinct
toggle switch that can be
felt in the dark. If you
The final lighting and control panel viewed from the master stateroom looking aft.
need to turn on the night
lighting in the master
Using the wiring from the fans mounted on the dinette stateroom without instantly destroying your night viside of the main bulkhead is also problematic, but can sion with white light, this is an important feature. The
be accomplished. It would necessitate running the
toggle switch toggles in all directions, so you only
wires up to the lip of the headliner, along the bottom of need to push it sideways on contact. These are availthe headliner, then drill holes through the bulkhead at able at Wal-Mart in the automotive electrical section.
an acceptably discreet point, and finally running the
wires down a short distance to individual reading
If you examine the wiring behind the headliner cover
lights. The exposed wires could be covered with a
directly under the mast, you will see that you can use
decorative teak strip. Others have successfully run wir- the deck light positive wire as a source for the reading
ing behind the headboard and mounted goose-neck
lights, as well as the red night light. Pictured here is
lights at the top which is both attractive and signifithe finished product on LILY PAD. As you can see,
cantly easier than the previously mentioned solution.
the cover is clad in vinyl to match the headliner. For
decorative reasons, as well as thickness requirement
There is another option that not only solves the wiring (1/16th of an inch), I glued a piece of teak colored
difficulties but also allows for a positive change in the plastic laminate to the face of the cover on which the
use of another light, the deck light. The final product is switches would be fastened.
15
To do this installation you need the following items:
1. Two swivel head 12V reading lights with individual on/off switches ($9 on E-Bay)
2. One automotive red truck DOT light (any automotive parts store)
3. One "all direction" toggle switch
4. One marine three way "on-off-on" switch
5. One buss bar or modified wire terminal block
6. Assorted 16 AGW wiring and connectors
7. Decorative sheet material 1/16th inch thick (metal
or plastic)
Wiring diagram showing connections to deck light, master
stateroom lights, toggle switch, and power.
I made a negative buss bar from a wire terminal by
running a continuous wire down one side of the terminal screws and fastened it to the back side of the cover.
In addition (but not shown), I attached the existing terminal block located behind the cover, to the cover itself, to facilitate working with the wiring and to dress
up the jumble of wires located at the base of the mast.
Front view of lighting and control panel.
The installation is pretty straight forward. The biggest
problem I encountered was finding a comfortable way
to sit/kneel while doing the wiring. We have used the
lights regularly for the past month and so far haven’t
found a down side. We will be
switching to LED bulbs once
these bulbs burn out. The red
night light bulb is very small and
only uses about 0.3 amps. It gives
the stateroom a very cozy glow
that comes in handy for occasions
other than sparing your night vision. On a scale of 1 to 10 . . . it’s
a 10.
View of panel behind the three lights, toggle switch, and three way switch.
16
Gemini 3000 Headliner Replacement
By Ron Adkins, DOVE, Hull 153
I can still remember the day we looked at our 1985
Gemini 3000 for the first time. We had made arrangements to meet the owner at the dock where he kept it
moored. After looking at the outside, we entered the
cabin to take a look inside. Immediately, my wife’s
eyes went to the headliner. I knew exactly what she
was thinking. It looked awful and I knew she did not
like it. As I was talking with the owner, she gave me
the silent “Hand cut across the throat” behind his back.
She did not want to buy this boat. In her opinion, the
interior was just not acceptable.
After we left the dock and got back in our car, my wife
did not waste a second before she expressed her feelings on this purchase. What really stuck out in her
mind was the unsightly headliner. I spent the entire
trip home trying to convince her that I could restore
this Gemini. Somewhere in the discussion, I promised
that I would deal with the headliner issue also.
Early in the restoration project, I removed the headliner in the main cabin. I did not have a clue as to how
I would replace it, but I knew that it had to be done.
After some research on what other Gemini owners had
View of main cabin with new headliner constructed from fir plywood and white Formica.
17
done and also what other boat owners had done, I decided to install panels instead of the factory type vinyl
headliner. I liked the idea of having panels that could
be removed for maintenance, that would not sag, could
be installed one piece at a time, and installed by me. I
am more of a carpenter than a seamstress!
final look was a clean looking all-white headliner.
I used stainless wood screws to fasten the panels to the
ceiling. The plywood with the Formica attached was
rigid enough so that a few screws would hold each
panel. (I hate drilling holes anywhere on a boat). Basically, the panels are held by screws under the trim
I realized that lots of decisions would have to me made around the hatches, the trim on the walls, and the trim
between the panels.
in order to install the panels. What type of material
would I use to fabricate the panels? Would I cover the
The panel idea worked so well, I decided to install
panels with a fabric and if so, what type of fabric
would I use? Other considerations were, how I would panels in the aft staterooms. This was really easy. I
installed one panel in each room held in place by four
secure the panels to the ceiling, how many panels
pieces of trim. The head and the master stateroom
would I install, and what type of trim would I use.
were a different story. I had a difficult time trying to
I wanted the panels to be light, yet I wanted them to be design a way to install panels without making them
look tacky. The ceilings in both of these rooms are
somewhat rigid. I finally decided to use ¼” fir plycurved in two directions making it difficult to install
wood for the panels. It was inexpensive and easy to
shape. I later decided to cover the plywood with white panels without having several seams and lots of trim. I
ended up sliding Formica into the ceiling and securing
Formica. Initially I was concerned about the added
weight of using these materials. However, I believe the it with just a few screws around the hatches and a coutotal weight is less than 100 lbs., including the trim. I ple of pieces of trim. These headliners turned out very
hate adding weight, but I thought it was a good price to nice. The Formica fit tightly in the ceiling, yet it can be
removed quite easily if I need to gain access to the area
pay to have a nice looking headliner.
above.
The process of fabricating the panels was quite easy.
First I made two pieces that mounted in the corners of My wife and I are very pleased with the new headliner.
the ceiling just over the windows on the port and star- It completely changes the appearance of the cabin area
of the boat.
board sides. These sections were cut to adapt to the
curves of the ceiling and to provide a straight edge for
the main ceiling panels. I then cut four panels to fit in If you own one of the older Geminis, then I know you
can identify with my headliner dilemma. I have posted
the main cabin. I assembled the entire headliner (6
pieces) first without the Formica to ensure the fit was additional pictures at http://www.flickr.com/photos/
ronsfunpics/sets/72157616240150854/. . Also, you can
correct. I then removed the six pieces and covered
them with Formica. After covering the plywood panels email me with any questions that you have and I will
try to answer you.
with Formica, I coated the backsides with polyurethane to provide some waterproofing in case I ever develop a leak above the panels.
Good sailing!
Next in the process came the trim. My first thought
was to use teak. However it is expensive and it would
have to have a finish applied to match the other teak in
the boat. Also, the older Geminis already have a lot of
Editor’s Note:
teak in the cabin which darkens the cabin, gets dirty
Ron plans to launch his 3000 early this summer and will keep
easy, stains easy, and has to be maintained. I decided
it on the James River, a few miles north west of Norfolk VA.
to use white PVC trim, which is available from Home
Depot. It is easy to shape, easy to clean, waterproof,
and it matched the Formica without being painted. The
18
CLASSIFIED ADS
Classified advertisements are free to members for up to 4 issues (1 year) per ad, thereafter $9 per issue or additional ad. Ads for Gemini catamarans for
sale are published in the newsletter as an abbreviated list (full ads available online www.GemCats.net). Non-Gemini ads in the newsletter are limited in
length. To place an ad: Visit www.GemCats.net , login, and click on ‘Classified’. Alternatively, e-mail the text to [email protected], or mail the text
to Gemini Catamaran Owners Association LLC, 16 Solly Lane, Bernville PA 19506. Ads must be reviewed prior to issue publication (respond to email).
for pictures.
CHARTER
WANTED
CHARTER A 2005 105MC IN ANNAPOLIS 1/2 day, full day and multiple day
instructional sails and Captained Charters
aboard my 2005 105Mc in Annapolis.
Licensed Captain insured for charter. The
boat is fully equipped. Also offering sailing classes. Let me help your partner to
learn sailing and docking techniques to
enhance your sailing experience and improve safety. I employ a low key, quiet
approach to sailing to make it enjoyable
for the entire crew. Learn one on one or
get a group together for a fun and informed day on your own boat. Charge by
the boat, not by the person. Contact Capt.
Bill Schardt at 410 626-7339, 443 8520105 or email me at
[email protected]. See
also www.annapolissailingsolutions.com
Older Gemini cat as project boat, preferably located in Florida. Must be transportable on it's own bottom. Contact J.R.
at [email protected].
1997 Gemini 105M #559. Asking
$93,500. E-mail [email protected]
or call Eric at 970 443 9850. In the water
near Stuart Florida.
Solid Fiberglass Extension from Top of
Cabin to Protect Wheel area in cockpit.
Somehow, a boatyard threw away the
extension over the wheel area of my 1991
Gemini. I also would like framing for a
solid bimini for my 3200. Wanted: davits
and framing for a loveseat or aft cockpit
swing. PCI says they no longer have the
mold and cannot make one. Call Tom at
845-267-8723 or email me at [email protected].
For Sale: 2000-2004, 105M, Hull 684,
HabbyKat. Must sell for medical reason,
asking $125,000. Dave Dianich,. 410-7453884. [email protected]. Near St
Michaels, MD.
Gemini 105MC. We have a waterfront
1bedroom/1bath condo in Sarasota, Florida valued at $150,000.00 that we would
be willing to trade (up or down). Condo is
right off Sarasota bay with deep water
access to the Gulf of Mexico (dock space
available). For more information and pictures you can contact Stan Wagner at 941812-7668. [email protected]
Hull 887 launched May 2005. $135,900.
Lying Lopez Island, WA. Contact David
Mowers at 425-557-6405(h) or 425-9413831(c).
MISC. ITEMS
Cabin cushions-new, dinette cushionsnew, headliner material - new. Call Jim
703-538-5883.
Misc. Equipment: In Annapolis, Md.
One stainless steel anchor swivel $50.00.
Sunglasses" Costa Del Mar, Expedition,
silver frames, mirror blue glass, like new,
no scratches $75.00 Call Bill at 410 6267339 or 443 852-0105.
We replaced all our window shades so
have the original set from our 2004
105Mc. They are the folded/pleated cloth
ones, used 2 years, some wear, the complete set of 13. $75 plus $15 shipping to
48 states. Call Jim at 239-269-3721 or
email: [email protected]
Mainsail for 105Mc, damaged by squirrels, available for repair and use as a
spare. Was on 707, I bought a replacement. No offer refused if you pick it up or
pay for shipping. Higher resolution pictures available. Tom Kisko,
[email protected], 352-257-9474
BOATS FOR SALE
(see www.GemCats.net)
2003 105MC Hull 815. Valued $110K
and $120K, motivated seller. Guy Marlow 941-505-0353 or
[email protected]. See http://
www.PictureTrail.com/marlows
2005 Hull 889. On land in East Patchogue
NY. www.OnTheWatersideNY.com for
video tour and details. $142,000. Willing
to trade down to an older Gem or
monohull.
OPUSS Is For Sale! This 1986 Gemini
3000, Hull 175. 8' Portabote dink w/ 5 hp
Nissan. $35000 +/-. Located North Myrtle
Beach SC. Call Tim @ 843-249-1670.
2005 Gemini 105Mc, Hull 913.
$141,500. View at http://
www.jfaughn.com/geminiforsale/
skipper.htm Lying in Goodland, FL. Larry
Linderer at (239) 513-9139(h) or (239)
398-9549 (c).
For Sale: 1992 Gemini 3200 Two Can
Hull 360. Located Port Charlotte, Florida
$69,900. Call Gene at 401-447-6234 or
email [email protected].
For Sale, 2006 105 Mc. Hull 943. Located near Seattle Wa. $145,000. Please
contact for more information. 360-9451601 [email protected]
1995, Gemini 3400 (diesel), Hull 442,
Fish Tales. Jim and Sue Fish 3008
Grange Hall Rd. Holly, MI 48442 (248)
634-1232 (Home) (248) 890-0259 (Cell)
[email protected] Asking
$89,500, slip available. Must see.
For Sale: 2007 105Mc Hull 983.9 2007
Docked in Cape Coral FL. Price
$149,000. PH 239-443-9161. email
[email protected]
For Sale: 1996 105M, Hull 517. Price
$87,900; Email [email protected]
19
2008 Hull 1028. Reduced to $169,500.
Located Virginia Beach. Call: 757-7215760. Email: [email protected].
16 Solly Lane
Bernville PA 19506
610-488-7840
[email protected]
www.geminigems.net
www.gemcats.net
April 2009—Articles in this issue
Geminis For Sale
(see http://www.gemats.net/)
New Owners, Name Changes, Directory Corrections
2009 Performance Cruising Owners Rendezvous
Spinnaker Use on a 3400
By Jim Fish, FISH TALES, Hull 442
Replacing the Transmission - Gemini 105M
By Jim Faughn, FREEDOM, Hull 536, 105M
Performance Cruising Extends Parts Department
By Laura Hershfeld, Performance Cruising Inc.
Captain’s Corner
Top Ten Reminders For Spring Commissioning
By Capt. Bill Schardt, CATNIP, Hull 892
Facnor Mast Furled Main
By Bill Scarpino, DOUBLEWIDE, Hull 623
Upper Chesapeake Bay Destinations - Chestertown
By Mark Kiehl, SEAS TODAY, Hull 649
Master Stateroom Overhead Reading Light Options
By Sandy Graves, LILY PAD, Hull 944
Gemini 3000 Headliner Replacement
By Ron Adkins, DOVE, Hull 153
20
Year
1986
1992
1995
1996
1997
2xxx
2002
2003
Model
3000
3200
3400
105M
105M
105M
105Mc
105Mc
2005
2005
2006
2007
2008
105Mc
105Mc
105Mc
105Mc
105Mc
Hull
175
360
442
517
559
684
795
815
887
889
913
943
983.9
1028
Price
$ 35,000
$ 69,900
$ 89,500
$ 87,900
$ 93,500
$119,900
$125,000
$120,000
$135,900
$142,000
$141,500
$145,000
$149,000
$169,500