2024_PSD_Vessel_charter_SOW_UPDATED.pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

The contractor shall furnish the necessary personnel, material, equipment, services and facilities (except as otherwise specified) to perform the following Statement of Work/Specifications:

VESSEL SUPPORT FOR FIELD CAMP DEPLOYMENTS

IN THE NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

1.0 GENERAL

1.1 BACKGROUND

The Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Center is responsible for research on federally managed marine fisheries and protected species such as the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and Hawaiian green sea turtle. The Center’s Protected Species Division (PSD) monitors the status of the Hawaiian monk seal and sea turtles in the Pacific and identifies the factors affecting their population, health, and recovery.

1.2 OBJECTIVE

The contractor must provide a vessel that will support protected species field camp deployment, recovery, protected species surveys and ancillary operations in the Hawaiian Islands. Field camp support includes transporting personnel, supplies, scientific materials, and small boats to and from remote islands. All equipment will be transferred on and off the island via small boat. The contractor must be capable of transporting live monk seals safely between islands, in close coordination with the scientific party.

Additional ancillary scientific activities such as marine debris removal or uncrewed aerial system operations may be conducted in conjunction with these activities in a manner not to interfere with the vessel’s primary mission.

1.3 SCOPE OF WORK

Base Year

In 2024 there will be two trips (Base Year). Trips will take place in the Hawaiian Archipelago including Main Hawaiian Islands and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, not-to-exceed a total of 52 days at sea (DAS) are required.

Trip one will depart between May 01, 2024 and May 31, 2024 (26 DAS). And will require two (2) mobilization days and one (1) demobilization day. Trip 2 will depart between July 23, 2024 and August 15, 2024 (26 Days) and require one (1) mobilization and one (1) demobilization day. An additional four (4) charter days and two (2) days for demobilization is available as Optional CLIN items.

Option Years (I - IV)

Option years will have similar requirements for dates (i.e. one or two trips in the spring and/or one or two trips in the fall for a total of no more than three trips) and may be between seven and 30 days each.

Requirements for dates and duration for option years will be dependent on annual funding and will be determined approximately at the beginning of each calendar year for the following field season.

Within an option year there will be a maximum of 3 trips and no more than a total of 60 days at sea (DAS).

One to three (1-3) days to mobilize and de-mobilize for each trip

Scenario 1: 2 Trips Scenario 2: 3 Trips

Trip 1 Trip 1

Spring trip: 2 mobilization days 2 mobilization days

26 DAS (2 more optional) 26 DAS (1 more optional)

1 demobilization day (1 optional) 1 demobilization day (1 more optional)

Fall Trip(s): Trip 2 Trip 2

1 mobilization day 1 mobilization day (1 more

26 DAS (2 more optional) 18 DAS (2 more optional)

1 demobilization day (1 optional) 1 demobilization day (1 more

Trip 3

1 mobilization day

7 DAS (2 more optional)

1 demobilization day (1 more

Total DAS 52 (4 optional) NTE 56 51 (4 optional) NTE 55

Total mobilization /demobilization

5 (2 optional) NTE 7 7 (2 optional) NTE 9

Example of possible Option Year scenarios

2.0 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS/TASKS

1. The PIFSC requires a vessel to support remote field camp deployment and recovery. This work will be conducted from a vessel with both contractor and government supplied small boats deployed from the vessel. The vessel must be suitable for distant open-ocean work with sufficient fuel, sewage treatment, water, and food stores, and must meet all permitting requirements to transit and operate in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). Permit requirements can be found at https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/permit/criteria.html including required Best Management Practices and Policies (BMPs) found at https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/permit/bestmanagement.html. The vessel must have, in proper working order, all required United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved safety, navigation, and communication devices and equipment. The vessel and communications devices (e.g., VMS) must be compliant with existing NOAA, PMNM, State of Hawaii, and federal regulations. The Captain must have a valid merchant mariners license for the appropriate vessel size and is highly preferred to have experience operating in PMNM waters. This includes experience with small boat shore landings and navigating unmarked channels and near shore areas of the PMNM. See section II.C below for full captain and crew requirements.

https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/permit/criteria.html

2. The contractor must furnish the necessary personnel/crew, equipment, and services to support the scientific operations. Scientific equipment will be furnished by the Government. In addition, the contractor must accommodate minor modifications to the deck space or removal and/or relocation of equipment to accommodate the project as needed.

3. The chief scientist or designated alternate has final authority for the work schedule of scientists except for work stoppage resulting from uncontrollable situations such as unsafe weather and sea state conditions and other safety-of-life-at-sea considerations as determined by the Captain.

4. The contractor must comply with all government requirements for COVID mitigation. This may include University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS), University of Hawaii, NOAA, or other requirements and will be discussed at the post-award meeting.

2.1 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

OPERATIONAL AREA: HAWAIIAN ARCHIPELAGO INCLUDING MAIN HAWAIIAN

ISLANDS AND NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS - PAPAHĀNAUMOKUĀKEA

MARINE NATIONAL MONUMENT:

Charter operations will begin and end on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The departure location will be at the Inouye Regional Center (IRC) on Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaii. IRC is the preferred location for staging and destaging activities but this may be negotiable if the contractor has needs of specific facilities not possible at IRC (e.g. cranes, etc). The majority of the work, including field camp support, will be conducted in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI), within the boundaries of the PMNM and some may occur in the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). At the discretion of the Government, an in-port at Midway Atoll (Kuaihelani) may be incorporated into the operational plan for the purposes of scientific surveys, personnel transfer, fuel and supply restocking and will be in close coordination with the US Fish and Wildlife Service personnel on Midway. The furthest work site is expected to be Kure Atoll (Holaniku), located approximately 1,200 nautical miles (NM) from Honolulu, Hawaii.

2.2 GENERAL INFORMATION:

1. The Government will be deploying and recovering federal, affiliate, contractor, or partner personnel including personnel from the Cooperative Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (CIMAR) as part of the Government’s personnel. The contractor must provide a certificate of insurance (COI) that indicates that the contractor vessel is adequately insured and names the UH and the RCUH as Additional Insured.

2. The Government will coordinate base passes for Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam (JBPHH) for the contractor’s personnel as required by IRC and JBPHH access for the vessel. All contractor vessel personnel must be able to pass the security clearance to obtain JBPHH passes for access of the vessel to the IRC pier.

Lead time to obtain these passes is 30 days.

3. The contractor is responsible for maintaining all contractor provided equipment, vessel, personnel, services and facilities in a state of operational readiness. Operational readiness is defined as the capability to function in a safe manner to accomplish mission objectives and meet Government and contract specifications.

4. If any contractor provided items (equipment, vessel, staff, etc.) are determined to not be in a state of readiness prior to or during the charter period, the contractor must make every reasonable effort to quickly remedy the situation so as to continue contract performance. If contractor deficiencies described below cause delays in operations or transit then the contractor will be considered deficient and “off charter” for that day.

a. Contractor deficiencies that prevent Government operations which are conducted on-station (such as field camp offload, onload, survey support or other operations) from occurring for more than three (3) hours in one day or four (4) cumulative hours throughout the charter between 0600 to 1800 OR

b. Contractor deficiencies that prevent Government operations while underway (transits or other shipboard activities) for more than six (6) cumulative hours at any time from 0000 to 2359.

5. A status of operational non-readiness in excess of three (3) cumulative days may be grounds for termination of the contract. In the event that a breakdown requires the vessel to return to port for repairs, the vessel will not be considered back on-charter for billing purposes until the vessel returns to the site where the vessel originally went off-charter.

6. The Government may require compensation from the contractor for Government incurred expenses associated with being off-charter.

7. During field operations and transits, a charter day shall be based on 24 hours of operation. When the vessel is in-port during mobilization/demobilization and/or staging of Government equipment and personnel, it is anticipated that only a partial charter day, to be charged as a mobilization/demobilization day, will be required. During in-port charter days, access to the vessel by Government personnel will be requested primarily during normal business hours. The Chief Scientist will coordinate with the Captain regarding the loading of equipment and Government personnel prior to departure and the unloading after return.

8. Fishing is not permitted within the boundaries of the PMNM. When outside of the boundaries of the PMNM other fishing regulations may apply and shall be followed at all times. Fishing operations may also be constrained at the discretion of the Chief Scientist based on scientific operations (i.e. seals on board) at times the vessel is operating in areas where fishing would otherwise be allowed.

2.3 SPECIFICATIONS:

A. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS:

1. The contracted vessel will be supporting NOAA as a comanaging agency of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) and thus will access PMNM under the PMNM comanagers permit.

The vessel personnel and operations must follow all PMNM regulations and the most current Best Management Practices and Procedures (https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/permit/bestmanagement.html) including but not limited to navigation, access to areas within the PMNM, overboard discharge, anchoring, prohibited fishing, biosecurity, pre-trip inspections, underway vessel and equipment cleaning requirements, and Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). The vessel shall undergo all PMNM required maintenance and inspections at the contractor’s expense prior to the charter and provide appropriate documentation to the COR. The PMNM may be contacted for a full description of vessel permitting requirements and best management practices that will be required.

2. The vessel must demonstrate compliance with USCG Shipping Regulations found in 46 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts 1-199; vessel applicability of the various Subchapters as determined by the service employed in. Owner/operators may demonstrate regulatory compliance acceptable to the local USCG Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) as:

a. A USCG inspected vessel Certificated as a Passenger, Freight or Oceanographic Research Vessel (ORV). Note: USCG Certificated means the vessel is operating with a Certificate of Inspection (COI) issued by the USCG, demonstrating compliance with the applicable Subchapter inspection requirements found in 46 CFR Parts 1-199.

3. The vessel must be able to maintain a minimum cruising speed of 8 knots in sea state 6 (sustained winds of 21 to 26 knots with 9 to 12 feet seas).

4. The vessel must have sufficient fuel capacity and reserves to accommodate 30 days of continuous operations. Fuel consumption estimates can be based on 50% of the time transiting between locations and 50% of the time on-station with all housekeeping, deck, electrical, and other necessary services available.

5. The vessel must have sufficient endurance to depart Honolulu, conduct a minimum of 30 days of operations at sites as far away as Kure Atoll without resupply, and safely return to Honolulu.

6. The proposal must provide specifications for fuel capacity and fuel consumption rates for the vessel underway at 8 knots and at 10 knots (if that speed is a capability of the vessel). These will be used as a factor in evaluating responses to the solicitation to assess the vessel’s endurance and the estimated cost of fuel for a given charter operation. This should not be misunderstood as a desire on the part of the Government to constrain the vessel’s speed to 8 knots. The vessel’s captain is expected to work with the Government to determine the most effective safe speed for vessel operation that meets operational need and fuel costs will be reimbursed based on actual expenses.

7. The vessel must be equipped with the appropriate complement of tools and spare parts necessary to maintain general vessel operations for the duration of the charter.

8. The vessel must have seawater and potable freshwater deck hoses for rinsing equipment and processing scientific samples on a daily basis. An on/off switch or tap must be readily available from the working deck.

9. The vessel must have at least one compressed air hose near the on-deck work area, capable of 125 psi.

10. The vessel must be equipped with a crane that meets the American Bureau of Shipping standards for loading and off-loading scientific equipment and supplies. The crane must be of suitable weight lifting capacity to safely load and off load supplies including secured pallets of gear, pallet tubs, gasoline drums, etc.

of up to 1600 pounds per load. The crane must include a quick release hook for use in small boat launch and gear loading operations.

11. The vessel must be able to carry, launch and recover at least five (5) small boats up to 19 ft. LOA and 4000 pounds each with attached outboard motors (provided by the Government). Launch and recovery operations must be able to be conducted in conditions up to sea state 5 (sustained winds of 16 to 20 knots with seas of 6 to 9 feet). When launching and recovering boats with personnel aboard, all hoisting systems, harness components, and attachment points must have a safety factor of 6:1 and the crane must be rated for launching with personnel (i.e. man rated).

12. The vessel must provide deck storage area for the following:

a. At least 800 sq. ft. for small boats, motors, scientific gear and accessories. The 800 sq. ft.

includes space for five (5) small boats up to 19 ft. Deck storage area may be continuous or separated into sections throughout the vessel, such that a minimum continuous space provided is at least 160 sq. ft.

b. Sufficient deck space for at least two (2) 20-foot steel closed-top shipping containers (20 feet long by 8 feet wide and 8.5 feet high). The vessel must have the ability to safely secure containers while underway and when on work sites. The containers will be provided by the contractor.

c. At least 300 sq. ft. for palletized storage of Government provided equipment with access to any of the pallets while underway and/or on-station. Pallet dimensions are approximately 4x4x4 feet. Pallet tubs must be secured on deck in a location and configuration that prevents water from entering the pallet tubs.

The contractor must provide a mechanism for moving the pallets on deck (e.g.: pallet jack).

d. The vessel must provide an additional 250 cu ft. of deck space (minimum) that can be used to house Hawaiian monk seals in cages while in transit. This area must be away from main transit areas, sheltered from deck overwash, the prevailing wind and sea spray, near a fresh or saltwater hose, and away from exposure to engine, gasoline, or other noxious fumes, including cigarette smoke. The area must have reliable access to seawater, or freshwater, while transiting capable of providing consistent misting during all daylight hours to support thermoregulation of seals. The area must be located such that waste from seals can be easily hosed off the deck overboard or into sewage drains without contaminating other gear and equipment or transit areas on deck.

13. The vessel must have a dry storage area of at least 300 cu ft. in the interior of the vessel for holding scientific equipment, electronics, and other items. The dry storage area may be continuous or separated into sections throughout the vessel.

14. The vessel must have a minimum of 20 cu ft. of freezer storage, exclusive of space for ship's stores, to stow scientific samples and supplies and an additional 300 cu ft. of freezer storage to store frozen food for field deployment and frozen fish for seal food. Freezer space shall be reasonably and safely accessible and shall be available at all times for access by Government personnel. A larger freezer storage space is desired, but not required. If built-in freezer space is not available, the contractor shall provide chest freezers and/or a freezer container including adequate accessible space and appropriate power supply. These freezers shall be in a location with adequate ventilation and access to continuous power supply and will be operational for the duration of the trip.

15. The vessel must have an indoor dry counter work area suitable for placing Government provided computers, printers, and other electronic/office equipment and for performing office-type duties. The workspace shall be at least 500 sq. ft. with adjacent electrical outlets (120VAC, 60 Hz).

16. The vessel must have areas suitable for preparing monk seal food and biological samples that are able to be delineated from each other and kept completely separate from human food prep areas and out of the elements (including protection from rain, wind, sea spray, and deck wash). This area must have a fresh water sink that drains into sewage tanks, an electrical outlet (120VAC, 60Hz) for seal food and biological sample preparation equipment, and a flat counter area for preparing biological samples. An indoor area is highly preferred. If outdoor, the area must be safe to work in while the vessel is underway (away from sea spray and deck wash). Additional consideration may be given for proposals offering an indoor area for preparing biological samples.

17. The contractor must provide clean and sanitary berthing accommodations and steward services for a minimum of twelve (12) male and female Government personnel. Government and Contractor provided personnel may share berthing arrangements, but must allow for separate rooms for male and female personnel. Berthing space shall contain at least one drawer or closet per occupant for stowage of clothing and personal gear, lighting, ventilation, emergency exit, and separated from machinery or fuel tanks.

Quarters and furnishings shall contain fireproof installations where applicable.

18. Berthing requirements, including the number and gender of Government personnel, will be provided by the Chief Scientist approximately two weeks prior to departure. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall work together on a detailed berthing plan to accommodate the gender mix of the Government personnel, taking into consideration the current complement of the ship.

19. The vessel must have a potable fresh water supply for vessel and personal use (including showers and laundry) for all personnel aboard for the duration of the charter as well as for filling up to 600 6-gallon water jugs (200 jugs per day) for a total of 3,600 gallons for field deployment. The potable water system shall have dedicated tanks (treated and coated), ventilated with insect screens installed (if appropriate), and a dedicated potable water hose with filters that remove particulates including rust.

20. The vessel must provide clean linens including mattresses, clean fitted sheets, pillows, and towels for Government personnel.

21. The vessel must have a minimum of two heads and two freshwater showers available to Government personnel. Additional heads/showers are desired but not required and may be given additional consideration during technical evaluation. The vessel shall provide sufficient soap, toilet paper, and paper towels for the number of personnel on-board and the duration of the charter.

22. All indoor vessel workspaces, berthing, and galley spaces must be adequately ventilated and free from tobacco smoke, excessive engine noise, and hydrocarbon fumes.

23. The vessel must have a functioning washer and dryer for Government personnel laundry use. The vessel shall provide laundry detergent sufficient for the number of personnel on-board and the duration of the charter.

24. The vessel must have a minimum of two (2) functioning small boats (such as a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB), safeboat, landing craft, or similar) for transferring gear, equipment, and personnel between the vessel and the islands. Additional small boats may be needed to comply with PMNM Best Management Practices (BMPs) for operation within a nuisance algae area to minimize the spread of nuisance algae (PMNM BMP #020). It is highly preferred that small boats are equipped with navigation systems (e.g. chart plotters). It is highly preferred but not required that the small boats include one inflatable boat with an outboard engine capable of landing personnel onto rocky intertidal shelves at locations such as Nihoa and Mokumanamana Islands. Additional consideration during technical evaluation may be given for quotes that offer this arrangement. All boats must be capable of landing on shore at shallow sandy islets and must be rated for a minimum of 1500 lbs. total carrying capacity. At least one boat must have at a minimum of 16 sq

ft. contiguous deck space such that it can carry a 4’x4’ pallet tub from the vessel to shore.

https://nmspapahanaumokuakea.blob.core.windows.net/papahanaumokuakea-prod/media/archive/permit/bmp/020_nuisance_algae.pdf

25. The vessel must be able to safely store a minimum of 1600 gallons of unleaded gasoline and transport to field camps in designated storage containers (55 gallon drums). Additional consideration may be given to vessels that have more gasoline storage capacity.

26. The vessel must have a location to secure one to three (1-3) Hazmat cabinets with dimensions of 4 ft.

(w) x 3 ft. (d) x 6 ft. (h). The cabinet(s) will be provided by the Government for the storage of chemicals used in scientific operations.

27. The vessel must be ballasted to maintain sea-kindliness during the charter. The operating area is within the PMNM which has strict rules for discharge and shall be followed at all times. Fuel considered as ballast shall not be considered in the vessel’s fuel-endurance estimate. Freshwater considered as ballast shall not be considered in the vessel’s potable water estimate.

28. In an effort to reduce marine debris pollution, the Captain must comply with waste management regulations as described in 33 CFR part 151 and MARPOL Annex V of MARPOL and as regulated by the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). The vessel shall have a storage facility, with or without a trash compactor, to retain all refuse so that it is not disposed of within the Marine National Monument. At no time shall plastic be discharged from the vessel. Household trash shall not be mixed with marine debris during transport.

29. The vessel must meet all PMNM discharge requirements (e.g. gray water, black water, gear disinfection rinse water). The vessel shall minimize transits outside PMNM boundaries to discharge waste water by having sufficient holding capacity to store and/or treat wastewater.

30. The vessel must be equipped with a minimum of one anchor and sufficient ground tackle to safely and securely anchor the vessel. Consistent with mission objectives, the vessel and small boats shall employ anchoring methods in accordance with the PMNM regulations to minimize damage to coral reef habitats during any anchoring operations.

31. The vessel must be able to maintain underway status, including all engine-room functionality, for the entire duration of the charter. The vessel must be able to maintain all housekeeping, deck, and other necessary services while underway or while on-station (at anchor or otherwise).

B. ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT and COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS:

1. The vessel must have a minimum of two (2) VHF radios, one (1) of which must be fixed mounted in the bridge. Two (2) additional VHF radios are required for each contractor-provided small boat. The Government will provide VHF radios for the Government personnel and Government supplied boats.

2. The vessel must have a minimum of two (2) long-range communication devices, such as single side-band VHF radios or satellite communications.

3. The vessel must meet all applicable USCG and CFR guidelines for manning and watchstanding during all operations to monitor and respond to radio communications, check-ins and/or emergency call-ins with field personnel.

4. The vessel must have a minimum of one (1) chart plotter (flatbed or CRT) with the most up-to-date charts and a secondary independent GPS or chart plotter that includes a dedicated antenna that allows for continuous recording of the vessel’s position and track-line. The vessel must be equipped with a back-up navigation system. When requested by the Chief Scientist, the Contractor must provide the vessel’s geo-positional data during the charter period.

5. The vessel must have up-to-date printed charts that provide adequate detail to navigate the area of operation.

6. The vessel must have current electronic or printed versions of navigation rules, NOAA U.S. Chart No. 1, and Coast Pilot aboard.

7. The vessel must be equipped with a minimum of two (2) radar units suitable for marine vessels, with a minimum range of 24 nautical miles.

8. The vessel must be equipped with a primary and a backup depth sounder to facilitate navigation and operations requiring information about the depth of water beneath the vessel. Depth sounders must report in units that match those on nautical charts.

9. The vessel must be equipped with a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), in compliance with PMNM regulations. The VMS must be confirmed to be functional no less than seven (7) days prior to entering

PMNM.

10. The vessel must have the capability to receive up-to-date weather information (e.g. Weather fax or other system). The Captain shall download, discuss, and review the weather reports on a daily basis with the Chief Scientist.

11. It is highly desired but not required that the vessel have wired or wireless internet connectivity for use by the scientific party. Additional consideration may be given to vendors that have unlimited wireless internet such as Starlink.

C. CREW REQUIREMENTS:

1. The contractor must provide a Captain, appropriately licensed by the USCG for the gross tonnage of the vessel, for the duration of the charter. The Captain shall be competent in the use of navigation and safety equipment. The Captain shall have experience launching and recovering small boats; approaching islands, navigating unmarked channels; operating in the near shore environment. The Captain must have the ability to compute and monitor the vessel’s trim and stability to make certain the vessel always remains within trim and stability guidelines. It is highly desired, but not required, that the Captain have experience conducting scientific operations in PMNM. Additional consideration may be given during technical evaluation for quotes offering this experience. The Captain will work directly with the chief scientists for matters pertaining to deck layout, berthing arrangements, trip itinerary, planning and operations. The Captain shall be familiar with all contract and Statement of Work requirements.

2. The contractor must provide adequate crew to meet USCG safe manning levels and provide appropriate crew to safely conduct the required operations. The contractor must provide skilled individuals on the vessel capable of crane operations and line handling for launch and recovery of all small boats and cargo. The contractor shall also provide appropriate numbers of crew (minimum 2 per boat) to safely operate at least two of the vessel’s small boats simultaneously to move gear and equipment between the vessel and the islands. Additional tasks shall not interfere with mandatory rest periods as stipulated in 46

CFR 15.705.

3. Captain and crew must have all required and necessary qualifications, licenses, and certifications appropriate to their position. All contractor crew will be physically capable of working under a high operational tempo for up to ten consecutive operational days. The contractor shall provide the COR with the captain and crew qualifications for those individuals that will be sailing on the charter at the pre-charter meeting or no less than 14 days prior to departure.

4. It is highly preferred that one of the crew be a certified medical professional (Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) level or above) who is capable of providing medical care in the event of injury or illness of contractor or government personnel while underway. Additional consideration may be given to proposals with a crew member with this experience.

5. Small boat operators must be experienced and proficient at operating the specific small boats provided by the contractor. It is highly desired that all vessel mates, operators and small boat operators have experience operating in shallow near shore areas and at least one has experience embarking and disembarking personnel from a small boat to rocky intertidal areas such as those at Nihoa and Mokumanamana Islands. Proposals offering this experience may be given additional consideration in the technical evaluation. The Captain and small boat operators will work with scientists to determine the best location for the ship during operations and for best safe navigational routes at each site.

6. All contractor and government personnel must comply with NOAA and PIFSC personnel conduct policies including: EEO, workplace harassment, substance abuse, safety and environmental awareness. A zero tolerance policy for any type of harassment will be enforced. The contractor must provide safe, efficient working conditions and accommodations to the Government personnel free from violence, threats of violence, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, and other disruptive behavior. The contractor, its agents, subcontractors, and employees, including the Captain and crew of the vessel must not harass, assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, threaten, interfere with or make unwelcome advances toward any member of Government personnel. Violation under this clause may result in termination of the contract, at the discretion of the Government under the Default Clause, and consequent liability of the contractor to the Government for any costs incurred, as well as debarment, suspension or similar action from future participation in Government contracts. Violation of the contractor’s obligations under this clause may result in criminal and/or civil prosecution of the person(s) involved by either the Government or affected Government personnel, as provided by applicable law, as well as adverse performance evaluation under the terms and conditions of this contract.

7. During the charter period, all firearms must remain locked and secured by the Captain.

8. During the charter period, the possession or use of intoxicating substances and/or illegal drugs, by any person, is not permitted and may be grounds for termination of this contract by the Government.

9. Presence of family members or pets: unless serving as crew, the spouses or children of crewmembers or owner(s) may not accompany the vessel during the term of the charter without obtaining prior written approval from the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). Animals (other than seals) are not permitted on board.

D. GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL:

1. The Government personnel may consist of Government employees and/or employees of corporations, academic institutions, contractors, or other entities.

2. The COR is the primary point of contact for contract management issues, including contract performance and invoicing. On each charter, one of the Government’s personnel will be designated Chief Scientist. The Chief Scientist will be on-board and responsible for implementation of the Project Instructions, reporting compliance of vessel and crew with the contract terms, all scientific operations, and the conduct and performance of Government personnel aboard the vessel for the duration of the charter.

The Chief Scientist and the Captain shall work together to achieve the goals of the Project Instructions in a safe and cost-effective manner. Any problems that cannot be resolved by the Chief Scientist and the Captain shall be referred to the COR, who will consult with and advise the Contracting Officer to determine a resolution.

3. Government personnel will provide safety, survival, and emergency equipment for operations conducted away from the vessel, i.e. in government-provided small boats or on islands/atolls.

4. Government personnel will not be involved in responsibilities typical of the vessel’s crew, such as standing watch, cooking meals, cleaning, line handling, or operating mechanical non-Government equipment.

E. OPERATING PROCEDURES:

1. The contractor must provide all Government personnel three (3) nutritionally balanced meals and two

(2) snacks served daily that accommodate alternative dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, lactose free, or other allergies. Fresh food, hot entrees (including those with vegetarian/vegan protein), fruits, and vegetables must be a regular part of the meal service. Meal portions must be sufficient to accommodate the needs of field personnel engaged in vigorous physical activity throughout the day. Special dietary requirements of Government personnel will be provided to the vessel’s Captain at least seven days prior to charter departure.

2. The contractor must make available drinking water and non-alcoholic beverages at all times. Meal times shall be coordinated with the Chief Scientist to accommodate the need to complete operations and the time required for the steward to prepare meals. At the discretion of the Chief Scientist, packaged meals and refreshments shall be provided for Government personnel and crew conducting operations away from the vessel. The Chief Scientist will notify the steward one day prior to needing packaged meals.

3. Berthing shall be available to scientists during the mobilization and demobilization periods (1-3 days prior to departure and 1-2 days after return as determined by the cruise instructions). Meal service shall be available to Government personnel staying aboard during the mobilization and demobilization period and for all Government personnel beginning one hour before departure, extending throughout the charter, and ending two hours after arrival to the final port. Meal service shall include in-port days unless notified by the Chief Scientist. The Chief Scientist shall notify the Captain how many Government personnel will stay on board during mobilization and demobilization days no later than one week prior to departure.

4. The workday length and hours will be determined by the Chief Scientist in consultation with the Captain. The decision will be based on the type of operations expected each day (transiting, field camp deployment or recovery, other scientific operations, debris removal, etc.) as well as on the prevailing weather conditions and the Project Instructions. The length of the work day will generally range from dawn until dusk and will not exceed 12 hours, per NOAA regulations. The workday for the vessel’s crew will likely exceed that of the Government personnel, as they will be required to conduct wheelhouse/anchor watches and maintain the vessel's equipment. The Chief Scientist has the final authority for the scientific operations of the vessel and Government personnel, except in matters relating to safety of the vessel and personnel on board.

5. Daily operations meetings will occur while underway, led by the Chief Scientist and Captain. All personnel involved in daily operations, including scientists and ships crew, shall attend operations meetings.

6. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall work together to resolve all problems which occur regarding the charter and operations while underway. In the event the Chief Scientist and Captain are unable to resolve any problem which has the potential to significantly impact the scientific mission or threatens the safety of the Government personnel, the Chief Scientist, under consultation with the COR and Contracting Officer, may direct the vessel to return to port where an acceptable solution will be arranged between the Government and the contractor, or the charter will be terminated. The vessel will be off-charter if required to return to port and will remain off-charter until the problem has been resolved and the vessel has returned to the survey area.

7. The Captain and crew shall exercise due caution and follow safety procedures, including applicable COVID mitigation requirements, as directed by the Chief Scientist to protect Government personnel and minimize delays to the mission, and to help prevent damage or loss of Government gear and equipment.

Specific safety procedures may be provided to the Captain by the Chief Scientist. Repair or replacement costs may be deducted from charter payments if loss or damage to Government equipment is the result of negligent disregard of such instructions and procedures.

8. All contractor and vessel equipment specified in the Government's statement of work and that which is not specified but is necessary for the safe and continuous operation of the vessel shall be operational at the beginning of the charter and maintained in working order throughout the duration of the charter.

9. The government will stage all government-provided gear and supplies, embark all government personnel, and the trip will depart from the NOAA Inouye Regional Facility (IRC) at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. It is preferred to load and offload all large government provided gear, and supplies at the NOAA IRC at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. Government personnel shall load and offload small hand carried items.

The Chief Scientist shall coordinate with the Captain to arrange appropriate times for mobilizing and demobilizing. Location of loading on Oahu may be negotiable if the contractor has needs of specific facilities not possible at IRC (e.g. cranes, etc).

10. In the event of an incidental take of a marine mammal or federally listed wildlife species during the course of the charter, the Chief Scientist will report the incident to the PSD Director, PIFSC Science Director and Deputy Science Director immediately. The following definitions apply: Take – under section 3(18) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), “…to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct.” Incidental Take – take that is incidental to, but not the purpose of, otherwise lawful activities.

11. Diving is not part of this mission. In accordance with NOAA Diving Program (NDP) Regulations, no diving (freediving, snorkel or SCUBA) will be conducted by the vessel crew or Government personnel except by the contractor, if necessary, for vessel maintenance or repair activities (hull maintenance, propeller or rudder de-fouling, anchor maintenance, etc.)

12. During the charter, all small boat activities must be approved by the Chief Scientist and shall only be conducted in support of the scientific mission.

13. The Contracted Vessel may be required to undergo a U.S. Customs and Immigration inspection in the event that port calls were made outside of the U.S. Customs boundary, including Midway Island.

F. SAFETY:

1. The Captain is responsible for all matters relating to safety of personnel, the vessel, and equipment operation. The Captain shall adhere at all times to Federal Navigation Regulations (33 CFR), COMDTINST M16672.2D, Navigation Rules (International - Inland), the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72 COLREGS), and the Inland Navigation Rules. The Captain shall review all safety procedures and equipment with Government personnel at the beginning of the charter, and when new scientific personnel join the vessel.

2. The Captain must be proficient in written and spoken English. Deck crew must be proficient in spoken English.

3. The contractor shall conduct a pre-charter shipboard and safety briefing for all crew and Government personnel. The following instructions/notices must be posted or provided in English:

a.) Muster list and emergency Instructions;

b.) Life raft location, operating and launching instructions; PFD and immersion suit location and use instructions;

c.) Procedures for abandon ship, mariner overboard and fire safety.

4. Periodic and unannounced safety drills (organized by the Captain and Chief Scientist) must be conducted during each charter.

5. The Government may require the contractor to test/demonstrate the vessel’s safety equipment/procedures (e.g. emergency steering gear, etc.) prior to the charter.

6. The contractor must provide appropriate first aid and small boat emergency supplies for the contractor-supplied small boat(s) when conducting operations away from the vessel. The Government will provide first aid and small boat emergency supplies for the Government-supplied small boats when conducting operations away from the vessel.

7. The vessel must be provisioned with appropriate first-aid and medical supplies including adequate supplies to provide basic medical support for animal bites, common injuries (including slips, trips, falls, sprains, strains) and illness (including seasickness, common cold, food borne illness, etc.) and at least one Automated External Defibrillator (AED) unit. Government personnel will have access to remote medical consulting through a separate contract. Contractor personnel will not be covered by the Government’s contract for remote medical consulting and will be responsible for their own medical needs including medical evacuation if deemed necessary. If a crewmember must be evacuated, the vessel is considered off charter for the duration of the evacuation and replacement of personnel.

8. The contractor must provide the Stability Letter from the vessel's Stability Report, certified by a licensed naval architect/marine engineer, which describes the vessel's stability characteristics for the intended charter operations. Recent stability or marine survey reports, pictures, drawings or blueprints should be included along with other required information to assist in the evaluation. Trim and Stability shall be recalculated when the vessel’s load or characteristics change, which may occur on a frequent basis when conducting field camp support or accumulating marine debris during operations and/or on/offloading field camp or scientific supplies.

9. The contractor must provide a certified inspection of all fire screen and watertight doors, certified by a licensed naval architect/marine engineer to the COR.

10. All personnel working or being transported in a small boat(s) or near open ship embarkation points must wear a USCG approved personal flotation device (PFD) and footwear that covers the toes and has a secure heel-strap and shall abide by The NOAA Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual, 4th Edition:

https://www.omao.noaa.gov/find/media/documents/small-boat-standards-and-procedures-manual-41-edition

11. Safety gear must meet USCG and OSHA standards. It is desired that safety gear is also SOLAS compliant.

12. All personnel engaged in deploying equipment over-the-side, including launch and recovery of boats, shall wear a USCG approved PFD and footwear that covers the toes and has a secure heel strap. PFDs for vessel crew shall be provided by the contract. PFDs for government personnel will be provided by the government.

13. All personnel working on deck where loads will be transferred overhead, either by crane or by hand, shall wear appropriate head protection. Hard hats for vessel crew shall be provided by the contractor. Hard hats for government personnel will be provided by the government.

14. VHF radio contact must be maintained between the vessel and small boat(s) while away from the vessel. The vessel shall provide a competent watch stander on the bridge at all times. During all small boat operations, the watch stander shall monitor and respond to VHF radio communications, check-ins, and emergency call-ins with Government personnel away from the vessel.

15. A Category I 406 MHZ EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) must be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the USCG.

16. “No Smoking” signs must be posted near any fuel and hazardous material storage areas, SCUBA tanks, oxygen cylinders, air compressors and any other hazardous areas.

G. PRE/POST CHARTER MEETING, AND PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Upon award of a contract and prior to the start of the charter, a post-award meeting will be held to discuss the charter operations. The COR will schedule the date, time, and location of the meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii or provide a platform for a virtual meeting. At a minimum, the COR, and vessel Captain must be in attendance. Other desired attendees include the contractor's shoreside contact and the Chief Scientist (if identified at the time of the meeting). At this time the government will conduct a readiness inspection and require documentation listed in the deliverables section of this contract. At this time the contractor shall facilitate a vessel readiness inspection, showing compliance with all aspects of the SOW, providing required documentation and inspection of the vessel.

2. The Chief Scientist will draft Project Instructions that will detail the mission, itinerary, scientific personnel, project provided equipment, and operations conducted on the charter. The Project Instructions will be provided to the contract vessel no later than 30 days prior to departure.

3. A pre-charter meeting will be scheduled by the Chief Scientist within 14 days prior to departure with the Captain of the vessel to review the Project Instructions and discuss charter related issues and operations.

Additional personnel may attend, including but not limited to project leaders, NOAA representatives, Government personnel, and essential contract personnel.

4. After completion of the charter, a post-charter debriefing will be held within ten (10) days of return to port to provide the charter operator an evaluation of the performance of the vessel and crew during the charter. The COR will schedule the date, time, and location of the meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii or may provide a virtual platform for the meeting. The Chief Scientist, Captain of the vessel and additional personnel may attend, including but not limited to project leaders, NOAA representatives, Government personnel, and essential contract personnel. Any concerns regarding unresolved issues that arose during the charter, efficiency, safety, and suggestions for improving future charters may also be discussed at this time.

H. FUEL COSTS AND COMMUNICATION FEES

1. The contractor must provide for all operating expenses of the vessel and contractor supplied equipment including fuel for the vessel and contractor operated small boats. Expenses for actual costs incurred are reimbursable under CLIN (0003, 1003, 2003, 3003 & 4003) when accompanied with appropriate documentation (receipts, invoices, etc.)

2. Communication fees incurred by the Chief Scientist or authorized Government personnel will be reimbursed by the Government and based on the actual costs incurred, under CLIN (0003, 1003, 2003, 3003 & 4003) and in accordance with the section of the contract titled, “Invoicing for Fuel and Communications Fees.” The contractor must provide all supporting documentation required for reimbursements by the Government.

3. The vessel must start the charter adequately fueled at the contractor’s expense. The contractor must provide the Government with verification of the actual fuel levels on-board. Fueling after the start of the charter shall be coordinated with the COR.

I. GOVERNMENT-PROVIDED EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES:

A comprehensive list of Government equipment and supplies will be provided to the contractor in the Project Instructions 30 days prior to charter departure.

K. ATTACHMENTS

1. ATTACHMENT #1- VESSEL CHARACTERISTCS FORM -VESSEL SUPPORT FOR FIELD

CAMP DEPLOYMENTS IN THE NORTHWESTEN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

2. ATTACHMENT #2- VESSEL CONFIGURATION FORM

3. ATTACHMENT #3- MASTER/CREW WORK EXPERIENCE

4. ATTACHMENT #4- OFFEROR’S RESEARCH QUALIFICATION SHEET

5. ATTACHMENT #5- PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE

6. ATTACHMENT #6- CODE OF CONDUCT

7. ATTACHMENT #7- REFEREENCED US GOVERNMENT ELECTRONIC CODE OF

FEDERAL REGULATIONS AND TITLE 46: SHIPPING

---End Statement of Work—