1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish Boat in Virginia Beach, VA 23451 US
50 Blackwell Sportfish
2 Engines (2x Caterpillar)
50 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Composite
Blackwell 50' Custom Carolina Sportfish
2024 Caterpillar C12 Repower | Extensive Mechanical Refit | Proven Offshore Tournament Winning Platform
This Blackwell 50' Custom Carolina is a well-adapted offshore sportfish that has undergone a comprehensive mechanical and systems refit with the current owner. This Sportfish combines the proven ride and sea-keeping ability of a classic Blackwell hull with modern Caterpillar power, updated electronics, and extensive structural and system improvements. A true offshore fish-raising platform, fully capable and actively used.
Recent Improvements & Refit
2025
- Caterpillar 1,000-hour service completed by Gregory Poole
- Engines remain under Caterpillar warranty with option to extend
- New air conditioning unit installed
- A/C raw water pumps replaced
- Bottom soda blasted, 3 coats of primer applied, Silicone-based bottom paint
- Cutless bearings replaced
2024
- Complete repower with Caterpillar C12 diesel engines
- Engine room stripped, re-glassed, painted, and rewired
- Generator removed, serviced, refinished, and reinstalled
- Fire suppression system replaced
- New Airmar R599 3kW CHIRP transducer installed
- New fuel and freshwater plumbing systems
- Tankless hot water heater installed
- All batteries replaced
- All through-hulls replaced
- Steering system rebuilt along with new helm
- New salon floor, structural framing and insulation installed
- New enclosure curtains installed
- New propellers installed
2023
- New transmissions installed
- Glendinning electronic engine controls installed
- Bridge electronics updated
- Raymarine electronics package installed
- New helm wiring throughout
Electronics & Navigation
- (2) Raymarine Axiom 12" multifunction displays
- (1) Raymarine Axiom 7" multifunction display
- Raymarine autopilot
- Caterpillar digital engine display
- Fusion stereo system
- Dual Icom VHF radios
- ACR remote spotlight
- LED light bar
- Starlink satellite internet system
- Airmar R599 CHIRP High-Low-Wide 3KW transducer
- Airmar B164 Tranducer
Fishing Equipment
- Fighting chair with rocket launcher
- (2) 12V electric reel outlets
- (2) 24V electric reel outlets
- Outriggers
Mechanical & Electrical Highlights
- Caterpillar C12 main engines (2024 repower)
- New ZF 325-1A transmissions (2023)
- New ZF Props (2024)
- Northern Lights 12kW generator (2024 Pulled, complete service, painted)
- Rebuilt steering system with new helm
- Updated electrical systems throughout
- New through-hulls and all new plumbing systems
- Updated fire suppression system
Accommodations
- Two-stateroom, one-head layout
- Over/under companionway bunks
- Large L-shaped sofa to port
- Sofa to starboard
- Galley with abundant storage
- Bait Freezer
- TV console
- Fridge/ Freezer
Broker's Remarks
This Blackwell 50 represents a strong offshore platform that has received significant investment in propulsion, systems, and mechanical reliability. The 2024 Caterpillar repower and comprehensive engine room rebuild provides modern power and upgraded systems throughout, supported by a broad range of supporting mechanical and electrical improvements.
The vessel is actively used and fully operational, offering a proven Blackwell platform with modern systems already in place for its next owner.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 10/20/26 | Initial price | $699,000 |
Overview from around the web 1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish
The 1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish has garnered positive feedback from customers who appreciate its well-thought-out design and performance at sea
Owners frequently highlight the boat's exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, which is a hallmark of the Custom Carolina brand. The powerful yet efficient engine performance enables a smooth and exciting ride, making it a favorite for serious anglers and casual cruisers alike. The spacious layout, which includes a comfortable cabin and ample fishing amenities, receives praise for its practicality and functionality. Many users find the fishing capabilities impressive, with large cockpit space and well-designed storage solutions for gear, making it ideal for extended trips. Customers also commend the boat's stability and handling, noting how it performs exceptionally well in a variety of sea conditions. Overall, reviews reflect a strong satisfaction with the Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish as a reliable and stylish choice for both fishing enthusiasts and luxury boating.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Strong Build Quality: The Custom Carolina design is renowned for its durability and strong construction, making the Blackwell Sportfish a robust choice for offshore adventures.
Performance: With a powerful engine setup, the 50 Blackwell offers excellent speed and agility on the water, allowing for quick trips to fishing grounds.
Classic Aesthetics: The elegant lines and traditional styling of the Custom Carolina boats ensure a timeless look that turns heads in any marina.
Spacious Cockpit: Designed with fishing in mind, the ample cockpit space provides room for multiple anglers, making it ideal for either sportfishing or leisure cruising.
Customizable Layout: The interior can be tailored to meet various needs, whether you want additional sleeping arrangements, improved galley space, or a comfortable salon.
Excellent Fishability: Equipped with features specifically designed for serious anglers, such as large fish boxes, a fighting chair, and plenty of rod storage.
Stable Ride: The hull design contributes to a stable and smooth ride, even in choppy waters, enhancing the overall boating experience.
Cons
Age of the Vessel: Being a 1998 model, it may require more maintenance and updates compared to newer boats, especially if it hasn’t been recently refurbished.
Fuel Efficiency: Older engines or models may not offer the same level of fuel efficiency found in newer vessels, potentially leading to higher operational costs on longer trips.
Limited Advanced Technology: The 1998 model might lack some of the modern navigational and fishing technology that newer boats incorporate as standard.
Available Space: While spacious for fishing, the interior accommodation options may be more limited compared to larger or more recently designed vessels.
Resale Value: As with any older boat, the resale value may not be as high, and owners may need to invest in updates to attract potential buyers in the future.
Weight: The solid construction can make the boat heavier, potentially affecting maneuverability and requiring more power during transport and launching. Understanding these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about the 1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish, ensuring it fits your boating and fishing needs.
Made For
The 1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish is designed for passionate anglers and boating enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and performance of a classic sportfishing vessel. Ideal for those seeking both style and functionality, this boat caters to serious fishermen looking for a robust and agile platform for offshore adventures, as well as leisure cruisers seeking comfort on the water. Its elegant lines and superior construction reflect the high-quality standards of Custom Carolina boats, making it perfect for individuals or families who value both aesthetics and durability. With ample space for entertaining, this sportfish is also well-suited for social gatherings, fishing trips with friends, or family outings. Whether you're a tournament angler or a recreational fisherman, the 50 Blackwell offers the versatility and dependability needed for memorable days on the water.
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1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $699,000 | $685,000 | $369,000 | $152,167 | $149,900 | $139,654 |
| Location | Virginia Beach | Virginia Beach | Hampton | Yorktown | Yorktown | Yorktown |
| Nominal Length | 50' | 58' | 52' | 24' | 36' | 23' |
| Engine Make | Caterpillar | Lugger | MAN | Yamaha | - | Yamaha |
| Total Engine Power | 705 hp | 700 hp | 1050 hp | 300 hp | - | 250 hp |
| Days on Market | 21 | 14 | 279 | 94 | 641 | 91 |
| Get in touch |
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Boat Location
Contact Bay Island Yacht Sales about 1998 Custom Carolina 50 Blackwell Sportfish
300 Winston Salem Ave, Virginia Beach, VA, 23451
































