Testimonials
Jesus Freak
There’s something about a custom Carolina boat that truly infatuates their admirers. The broken sheer, tumblehome, beautiful lines and teak work all define the character of a truly unique vessel. When I started looking for a Carolina Sportfishing boat I was quite lucky to find a 48’ Blackwell available for sale. A mid-size sportfisher with the right combination of weight and power that is easy on the wallet and capable of handling the tough offshore waters. After purchasing my Blackwell I was even more blessed to get to know Craig Blackwell and his team of employees that make up Blackwell Boatworks.
After 15 years and over 10,000 hours in the charter service, it was time for a renovation. Upon delivery, Craig’s team was able to repair damage from years of hard use, repaint the entire hull, replace the covering boards and redesign the tuna door, reconfigure the cockpit bait stations for a new ladder, reconfigure the bridge to allow for updated electronics, install a new tower, new hardtop & enclosure, new fuel tanks, install new electrical panels, battery & charging systems, reconfigure waste management systems & plumb trunk lines, new salon headliner, interior lighting, sofas, refrigeration and teak veneer. The list goes on and on – but one thing is for certain. Craig and his team provided unparalleled customer service throughout the entire project. Keeping me well informed of challenges, while working around the clock to meet their deadlines. Quality work at a fair price!
Over the past few years since the renovation, Craig and his team employees have remained available any time there was a need. During this past year, the Jesus Freak lost a sea water pump during the first day of the Pirates Cove Billfish Tournament. I immediately called Craig on my sat phone as we returned from the fishing grounds back to the dock. By the time we arrived, Craig’s guys were standing on the dock with the parts ready to tackle the installation. Within the hour we were ready to fish the next day of the tournament. We didn’t miss a single day of fishing.
I can’t say enough about Craig Blackwell’s willingness to take care of those that have placed their confidence in him. This man of integrity and his team of skilled craftsman have earned my trust.
Sandra D
Dear Craig,
I hope this letter finds you, Sandy and your team doing well. I felt compelled to write you these few lines to express my personal satisfaction and gratitude for the work you and your team completed on the rebuild / remodel project of my 58 foot Hudson The Sandra D. It was a difficult day for me and my crew when on August 4th, 2013 the boat hit the south path pilings under the Bonner bridge. Our captain Keith Baer did a great job backing the boat to safety into a nearby sand bar after we lost total steering ability.
The total rebuild project of the Sandra D grew every month as we decided to redesigned the interiors, repower with new Cat’s C-18, add a water maker, install new generator, new ice maker/chipper and rewire all electrical components. The actual haul repair was done masterfully, it is literally impossible to tell the boat was ever damage in any way. The new paint job and teak work on the deck also turn out very nice.
Sandra, my son Nick and I love the new boat and our captain is more than please with the new hydraulic steering system and the performance of the new engines.
I know a project of this magnitude is almost never totally pleasant as many challenges and difficulties tend to come up unforeseen. You and your team always kept a positive aptitude during times when the weather was not cooperating or when I kept asking for changes or additions to the original project scope, you made this experience pleasant and enjoyable. In closing I am happy to say “You did a Great Job” We now have a world class custom build boat we are very proud off and you and your team deserve much of the credit. I wish you all the best on the completion of the two new boats you are building and I highly recommend Blackwell Boat works to anyone looking to embark in a boat renovation project of significant magnitude.
The Megabite
“Why am I building my third boat with Blackwell Boatworks? I believe they provide the best value for the dollar available in custom boats today. Making the decision to build my third boat with Blackwell is proof that I believe in the quality and workmanship that they put into their product. Not only does Blackwell Boats produce an outstanding sportfisher but they stand behind their product with a great warranty. Building a custom boat can be as stressful as building a house, but Blackwell makes the process easy and keeps the owner involved every step of the way.”
The Instigator
“The new improved entry has greatly enhanced performance in head sea conditions. Blackwell boats provide exceptionally clear trolling alleys for bait presentation. In the last 3 years the Instigator team has placed in numerous tournaments. The combination of the custom Carolina flair, bottom design, and workmanship make a Blackwell boat a great value in the boating market today.”
The Yoka
“Wherever I go from Nantucket to North Palm Beach… People go out of their way to stop by and ask, ‘Who built that boat?’ In addition to her good looks, Yoka lives up to her North Carolina sea keeping abilities. More than once, I’ve been out in 25-30 kt winds with 8-10 ft and larger seas.”
