Here’s one cat who expects to have more than nine lives. Meet Hemisphere, formerly known as Project Gemini, which at 145 feet LOA will be the world’s largest catamaran when she’s delivered toward the end of this year.
Under construction at the Bridgeport, Connecticut, facility of Derecktor Shipyards and from the design boards of France-based Van Peteghem Lauriot Prevost (VPLP), Hemisphere is coming to life in some pretty capable hands. Derecktor has long been known for its fast ferries in addition to its new-build and refit yacht projects. In fact, in recent years it’s built a few catamaran passenger ferries plus Homeland Security patrol boats. VPLP is well-versed in designing multihull racers, sailing catamarans, and power catamarans.
Hemisphere will benefit from a draft just shy of 10 feet, allowing her to access anchorages that some single-hull sailing yachts of similar size can’t explore. Whether she’s anchored outside a tiny private cove or even tucked inside a larger port (like Portofino, featured in the photo-illustration here), she’ll of course carry a handful of tenders, all stowed out of sight, as well as dive equipment. Also out of sight is much of the deck hardware; rigs are relatively uncluttered, and the 174-foot-tall mast is free of spreaders, given that all lines run internally.
For the owner’s and 12 guests’ enjoyment, there’s a Jacuzzi tub, sunpads, and shaded dining outside; the main deck can also serve as a large indoor-outdoor living area. A crew of eight will tend to their needs. When the owner isn’t onboard, the yacht will charter, as part of the Burgess fleet. She’ll be available for $150,000 per week plus expenses in the Caribbean for the 2008-2009 winter season.
I hope to get a good look at Hemisphere at the shipyard, so I’ll have more details about her design and hopefully some pictures within the next few months. Stay tuned.
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