Liz Pasch

French Polynesia exercises a powerful attraction. The islands, which cover an area about the size of Western Europe, have plenty of appeal despite their geographic isolation. Of late, they seem to attract more private and charter yachts, many based in the Society Islands.

When Alexander Dreyfoos decided to test his next boat he went to one of the world’s windiest, nastiest, most dangerous navigation areas—the North Sea. Three and a half years later he invited us to see his new yacht, Silver Cloud, on much calmer waters in Palm Beach, Florida.

She served her country dutifully, transporting secret service agents and entertaining heads of State. Now 77, she shows signs of her age but anyone can see that Honey Fitz was a beauty in her day. Her current owner is determined to restore that beauty and dignity. We visited the former presidential yacht after she underwent extensive work at Fort Lauderdale’s Bradford Marine boatyard.