SAIL AWAY ON THE KENNEDY'S PRESIDENTIAL CRUISER
Take a dip into great American history aboard the Honey Fitz and you are sure to be amazed. The dreamy aura of the ship provides for a romantic journey down memory lane. Once enjoyed by the Kennedy’s and now enjoyed by many, the Honey Fitz is a must see!
Resting in her West Palm Beach harbor is the newly restored ship once made famous by the Kennedy's. The regal appearance of the boat will take you aback with its beautiful, wooden transom and the famous presidential seal on its smoke stack. The Honey Fitz is the presidential yacht John F. Kennedy made legendary, is an icon of the American dream and a true statement of class. Many a fun time were had with the Kennedy family on this charming vessel.
Honey Fitz used to cruise the Intracoastal Waterway near the family’s winter retreat in Palm Beach County. The 93-foot ship was originally built in 1931 for Sewell Avery, a Montgomery Ward magnate. It was also at one time a World War II minesweeper for five US Presidents and even an extravagant cruise liner. When the Kennedy Family took over the ship they named it after their beloved grandfather, Boston’s Mayor, John Francis Fitzgerald who’s nickname was Honey Fitz. Texas oilman, William Kallop, now owns Honey Fitz. He purchased the boat in 1998 at the Sotheby’s Camelot auction for a cool $5.9 million. Kallop is a history buff and is dedicated to preserving the story of the ship and sharing it with the world. Kallop has described Honey Fitz as a, “national treasure” and a “magnet” for fans of the era.
After two years of careful renovation and devotion, the Honey Fitz is ready to begin touring again. The time restoring the boat was done by hand and filled with difficult tasks and countless obstacles. Crews tackled the project at the Moores Marina here in south Florida, a specialty marina for vintage American powerboats. Honey Fitz will set sail cruising to 14 Atlantic cities. The public will have access to the tours and proceeds will go as fundraising for wounded veterans charities and autism research. In between tours, the Honey Fitz will be available for private charter (prices range from $5,000 for four hours).
To date, the tours and cruises have been a tremendous success for the Honey Fitz. The galley spans 150 square feet for chef and crew, the decks accommodate up to 70 guests and the topside is perfect for dancing. She was named the “Spectator’s Choice” at the Ocean Reef Club’s Vintage Weekend in Key Largo. Over 540 people came aboard that day. Take a walk in history with this American icon and learn more about where you can cruise on the Honey Fitz! Visit www.eastcoastyachtcruises.com
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