Isla Maritime, a marine services provider specializing in vessel salvage and commercial diving, has opened its headquarters in Port Richey, a move that gives the fast-growing company a permanent base on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The company purchased a 3,000-square-foot warehouse and office space, according to the Pasco Economic Development Council.
Isla Maritime said the facility will be used to store, maintain and service the diving and salvage equipment it deploys on projects across the U.S. and abroad.
Pasco County has seen steady business and population growth in recent years.
The county ranked No. 3 nationally in net migration in 2024, according to Business Facilities, and its workforce has increased by 34% over the past decade, according to JobsEQ data.
The county’s population now exceeds 633,000, according to the Florida Office of Economic and Demographic Research, placing it within the 3.3 million-person Tampa Bay metropolitan area.
“The team at Isla Maritime is grateful for the opportunity to leverage Pasco EDC’s resources and support,” said Aileen Caras, CEO of Isla Maritime. “We are proud to establish our headquarters in Pasco County and be a part of this community as we grow and expand our operations.”
Founded in 2023, Isla Maritime has supported projects involving NOAA vessels, the USS Yorktown and the MV Dali salvage operation.
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The company said it has also expanded its international capabilities through a new partnership with Panama-based J.A.M. Marine Dockyard, positioning it to respond to salvage needs around the Panama Canal and surrounding waterways.
Pasco EDC President and CEO Bill Cronin said Port Richey gives the company quick access to the Gulf and the region’s waterfront counties.
“I am excited about Isla Maritime’s rapid growth and the strategic international partnerships they are forming,” Cronin said. “Our team is here to support them as they continue to expand in Pasco County for many years to come.”
Isla Maritime’s work includes environmental remediation, marine salvage, commercial diving, naval architecture, abandoned and derelict vessel removal and consulting.
Pasco County Commissioner Lisa Yeager said the company’s expansion reflects the type of small business growth the county is working to attract.
“As a woman-owned small business, their success also reflects the kind of diverse, high-quality companies we’re proud to support here in Pasco County,” Yeager said.
Pasco EDC said it provided site location assistance during Isla Maritime’s search for warehouse and office space.
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