Business for Sale

CARIBBEAN TROPICALS INC

Owned and Operated by Matt & Dawn Andrews since 2012

Located in Key Largo Florida

Business Overview:

Established in 1984, we are a fully licensed Tropical Fish and Marine Life Collector and Wholesaler based in the iconic Florida Keys. Specializing in hand-collected Caribbean marine life, we pride ourselves on delivering healthy, vibrant specimens directly to our customers. To ensure optimal health, all fish are housed in a medicated system prior to shipping, minimizing the risk of parasites and diseases. With decades of expertise and a commitment to quality, we are your trusted source for premium marine life.

Our Journey:

What began as a personal passion for marine life evolved into a full-fledged business venture. With no prior experience in marine collection, I transitioned from hobbyist to owner, driven by curiosity, dedication, and a deep respect for Florida’s aquatic ecosystems.

Authenticity: The business is built on genuine enthusiasm, not just profit motives.
Learning Curve: My journey reflects the accessibility of the industry to passionate newcomers. Partnered with experienced collectors to ensure ethical and sustainable practices. Invested in training, licensing, and compliance to meet Florida’s strict marine life regulations.
Customer Connection: Hobbyist roots help foster trust and relatability with clients, especially other enthusiasts. Built relationships with suppliers, regulators, and customers through transparency and integrity.

Reason for Selling:

After a successful 30-year run, the original owner retired, and we’ve proudly continued the legacy since 2014. Now, as the second owner, I’m preparing for my own retirement. This fully turn-key operation is ready for a seamless transition—offering a rare opportunity to step into a well-established, reputable business in the marine life industry.

Key Financial Highlights:

Exclusive Permit: Operates under a Florida Marine Life Endorsement—an essential and limited-access permit that can only be acquired from an existing holder, adding intrinsic value to the business.
Minimal Overhead: Streamlined operations with low fixed costs, making it an efficient and profitable venture.
Turn-Key Setup: All systems, equipment, and relationships are in place for immediate revenue generation.

Industry Overview:

Florida’s marine industry is one of the most vibrant and economically significant sectors in the state, driven by its extensive coastline, rich biodiversity, and thriving tourism.

Key Sectors:

Living Resources: Includes harvesting and trade of marine life such as tropical fish, soft corals, and invertebrates for aquariums and research.
Tourism & Recreation: Marine life businesses often intersect with ecotourism, diving excursions, and educational marine parks.
Hobbyists: Serving dedicated marine aquarium owners who value direct access to ethically collected Caribbean species.

Target Market and Customer Base:

Our customer base includes a diverse range of marine life enthusiasts and institutions:

Pet Stores: Supplying vibrant, healthy tropical fish and marine life for retail sale.
Public Aquariums: Providing high-quality specimens for educational and exhibit purposes.
Hobbyists: Serving dedicated marine aquarium owners who value direct access to ethically collected Caribbean species.

By selling directly to end users, we reduce handling, improve animal health, and offer competitive pricing—making us a trusted source in the marine life community.

Growth Potential:

The growth potential for this business is virtually unlimited. With exclusive access to a Florida Marine Life Endorsement and a proven direct-to-consumer model, there are numerous avenues for expansion:

Scaling Collection Operations: Hiring additional collectors or expanding collection zones within permitted areas.
Diversifying Inventory: Introducing new species or marine products to meet evolving market demand.
Expanding Sales Channels: Enhance existing e-commerce platform, increasing wholesale partnerships, or targeting international markets.
Brand Development: Enhancing marketing efforts to grow brand recognition among hobbyists, retailers, and institutions.

Whether you are looking to maintain a lean lifestyle business or scale into a larger enterprise, the foundation is in place for exponential growth.

Assets and Liabilities:

Assets: All business assets—including equipment, inventory, permits, and infrastructure—are fully owned and included in the sale. This turn-key operation is ready for immediate takeover with no encumbrances.
Liabilities: The business carries no outstanding debts or liabilities, offering a clean financial slate and peace of mind for prospective buyers.

Description of Offerings Included in Sale Price:

This turnkey operation comes fully equipped with everything you need to hit the water and start collecting. The sale includes a comprehensive set of high-quality, well-maintained assets essential for marine life collection and distribution:

2001 Cobia 25' Walkaround Boat
- Stable and spacious platform ideal for diving and collection
- Powered by a 2023 300HP Suzuki Four-Stroke Engine with only 300 hours—reliable and fuel-efficient
Brand New Air Compressor
Garmin Fish Finder/Chart Plotter
- Preloaded with prime collection, fishing, and lobster spots for maximum productivity
Complete Dive & Collection Gear
- Includes wetsuits, tanks, nets, and specialized tools for marine life harvesting
Aquarium Systems & Filtration Equipment
- Multiple aquariums, pump, and protein skimmer included for holding and maintaining specimens

This package is designed for serious collectors or entrepreneurs looking to enter the marine life trade with a fully outfitted setup. This inventory ensures operational readiness and supports both current business needs and future expansion.

Price

Full turn-key package - $350,000. Includes everything listed above, plus training and transition support for a seamless start.