America’s presidential yacht, Honey Fitz, is making its debut for private charters and events in the Jupiter Inlet at its new home, the Pelican Club in Jupiter, FL. Managed and owned by Lessing’s Hospitality Group, the Pelican Club is offering various dockside and cruise packages aboard the Honey Fitz to host weddings, parties and other private events. Pelican Club is now accepting bookings on the yacht for events beginning in October 2024.
The Honey Fitz is a 93-foot wooden motor yacht that has been used by five former U.S. presidents: Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon and John F. Kennedy. The 92-year-old yacht was originally built by Defoe Boat & Motor Works in Bay City, Michigan, in 1931 for Montgomery Ward tycoon, Sewell Avery. It can accommodate up to 35 passengers and has a main saloon, a sundeck, a fully outfitted galley and a private stateroom. The yacht also utilizes state-of-the-art navigation and safety equipment.
In February 2020, a team led by Charles R. Modica began an extensive restoration project to restore the vessel to its former glory. Historical functioning parts of the vessel dating to 1931, World War II and the presidential eras from 1945 to 1971, can be seen throughout the vessel. The Honey Fitz made its official debut at the Palm Beach International Boat show in March 2023.
The Pelican Club offers various packages aboard the Honey Fitz; several can be used in conjunction with a booked event at the Pelican Club. Charter cruises depart from the Pelican Club. Guests booking an event at the Pelican Club can take photos aboard the Honey Fitz for an hour at the start of their event for a fee.
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