World's Largest Cruising Cat on the Way

by Sail-World Cruising on 3 Jul 2006 Enjoy your last thrill on a Hobiecat?- Eat your heart out…

In November next year, after two years’ construction in Derecktor Shipyards in Bridgeport Connecticut USA, the largest cruising cat in the world will finally slip into the water. Gemini will be 44.2 metres long, with a 16.6 metre beam and a displacement weight of a staggering 210 tons. But it is not the hull or sails that is taking the time, it’s the luxury.

According to a Derecktor spokesman, 120 workers have their hands full and the number is set to increase.

Below her towering rig, Gemini has three decks topped by the 92 sq. meter fly bridge, which contains twin helms as well as a sundeck with all the essentials: sun beds, Jacuzzi, lounge area, bar, BBQ grill and al fresco dining for twelve. She will be outfitted with full diving gear for 12, and a 28 foot tender for dive excursions, which disappears into the catamarans cross deck.

The vast main deck includes a 126 sq. meter shaded dining and lounge area including a fully equipped bar. From the forward end, the large private terrace and trampoline can be accessed from the owner and VIP suites. Her elegant interior style is the work of Michael Leach Design Ltd, winner of the prestigious 2004 Showboats International 'Best Yacht Interior' award.

Five generous en suite cabins are highlighted by the sumptuous 30 sq. meter owners suite. The eight-person crew will settle well into the starboard hull with crew mess, galley (with walk-in freezer), laundry and other essentials at hand. There is even a private crew's entrance so that, in spite of her size, all aboard Gemini can have a sense of intimacy and privacy.

Van Peteghem Lauriot Prevost designed the catamaran itself, and extraordinary engineering features are almost commonplace. Her port hull transom opens onto the fully outfitted dive room. A three sq. metre hydraulic swim platform emerges from her stern for easy ocean access.

The automatic passerel also stores in this hull for efficient med (stern-to) mooring. The starboard transom house a 4.5 metre tender launched through a side door in the hull. This second tender is meant for water skiing, wake board and general knocking about.

The communications and electronic systems aboard Gemini befit a contemporary yacht of her sophistication. Engineering and systems have been designed by Derecktor and Taylor Marine Services to operate seamlessly, ensuring that shipboard life will be comfortable and as trouble-free as possible. This is no simple feat, considering she will carry 30,365 litres of fuel, 8,500 litres of fresh water, 40 tons of air conditioning and water makers with a 568 litre per hour capacity.

Yes, she will be available for charter, but you’ll need to forgo quite a few tacks on a Hobie to afford the daily charter rate.