Photo of the real Honey Fitz, a presidential yacht used frequently by JFK and no longer owned by the Federal Government. I made the model based on the yacht as it was when JFK used it; this photo is a recent photo, with the deck enclosed and the upper deck converted to public use.
Do you sell any of the boat models?
The upper deck conversion was done during the Nixon presidency. It was never like that when JFK was president. How do I know? I was the engineer of the Honey Fitz for every trip JFK made on the boat and traveled with it to Palm Beach, Newport, and Hyannis Port. The only things on top then were the flag posts and a John Boat that was about 10 feet long. Sincerely, John F. Harris
Hi John, nice to meet you and thanks for viewing! How wonderful that you were able to travel on Honey Fitz all that time!
The top photo is a newer one, indeed. When I built the model, I wanted to show the way it was during the time that JFK was president so there is only a john boat, the stack, and the hatches, lights, etc. I had to use some old photos for that but the newer one in the water is a stock photo taken off the Internet.
Bill
Hi. I am a designer working on interiors of the Honeyfitz which has been undergoing a complete restoration these last two years. She will be ready to go in the water in next few months. Came across your beautiful model and wondering if it is for sale? If so I would see if the current owner might be interested.
Hi Carol,
I would let it go for $5000 but getting it secure enough to ship is a big issue.
Were would the owner want it?
Thanks
Bill
I am forwarding this to the client to see if they have any interest. Will be back to you. Thank you!
Hi. Getting back to you regarding my client’s response. They are considering your offer but have a question. The interiors are being changed and they wonder if you would be willing to change the interiors on the model? Most likely it would be a navy carpet, white curtain panels. The sofas could be built as hey are champagne style- mahogany frame with three drawers below. We could send some pictures. Think it would be pretty simple. Please let me know if you are willing. Thank you.
Hi Carol,
Where is the boat/owners? This is not easily shipped and besides considering changing the interior, we have to address that.
Thanks, Bill
It would be going to Florida.
Hi Carol,
The model is made as a replica of the time that JFK used the vessel.
Not willing to change this model, sorry. So many alterations have occurred on the boat since this era.
If the owners want a replica of it after they’ve completed the work, happy to consider making one for them. Would need to collaborate.
Thanks, Bill