AB-133R-16-RQ-0214.pdf

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION

(THIS IS NOT AN ORDER)

THIS RFQ IS IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE

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NRMAH000-16-00421 AB-133R-16-RQ-0214

PACIFIC MARINE ENVIRO LAB

7600 SAND POINT WAY NE

/R/PMEL

SEATTLE WA 98115-6349

NOAH NIELSEN

NOAH.NIELSEN@NOAA.GOV

Please See Continuation Page for Line Item Details

206 526-6034 PACIFIC MARINE ENVIRO LAB

7600 SAND POINT WAY NE /R/PMEL

SEATTLE

98115-6349WA

APR 08, 2016

OCT 07, 2016

DUNS:

MAH00031

X

Attachment Page

PAGE 2 OF 67 AB-133R-16-RQ-0214

COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION

VESSEL CHARTER FOR 2016 ARCTIC SURVEY

i) This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice and in accordance with the simplified acquisition procedures authorized in FAR Part 13. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; quotes are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued.

The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) intends to award one firm-fixed-price supply contract for a vessel charter to retrieve and deploy passive acoustic and oceanographic moorings, conduct oceanographic sampling, and deploy and recover a towed vehicle in the Bering, Chukchi and Beaufort Seas as described in the Statement of Work. All responsible sources may submit a quotation which shall be considered by NOAA. The Government intends to select one offeror; however, the Government reserves the right to award no contract at all, depending on the quality of the proposals/quotes and prices submitted and the availability of funds.

(ii) This solicitation is issued as a request for quotation (RFQ). Written quotes on RFQ Number AB-133R-16-RQ-0214 shall be submitted on a Standard Form

(SF) 18.

(iii) The solicitation and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2005-87 dated March 07, 2016.

(iv) This procurement is 100% set-aside for small business concerns. The associated NAICS code is 483114. The small business size standard is 500 employees.

(v) This combined synopsis/solicitation is for purchase of the following commercial item supply:

Line Item 0001 – Base Period Charter Days Period of Performance: August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016;

2016 Charter Vessel – 20 DY: Provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for a vessel charter supply in accordance with the Statement of Work.

Line Item 0002 – Base Period Transit Days Period of Performance: August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016;

2016 Charter Vessel – 20 DY: Provide all labor, equipment and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for transit from Seattle, WA to Nome, AK and Dutch Harbor, AK to Seattle, WA.

Line Item 0003 – Base Period Load/Unload of Government Equipment Period of Performance: August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016;

2016 Charter Vessel –2 DY: Provide all labor, equipment and materials to load and unload the charter vessel in accordance with the Statement of Work.

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Line Item 0004 – Base Period: Reimbursable Fuel Period of Performance: August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016;

Fuel – 1 LS: Charter vessel fuel for use during the charter. Should optional charter days be exercised additional funding will be provided. Estimated not-to exceed amounts for fuel are for evaluation purposes only. Allowable fuel expenditures will be reimbursed up to the pre-approved amount and any overages must be approved in advance of incurring charges by the Contracting Officer.

Reimbursement of this line item will be based upon actual costs incurred and when accompanied with the appropriate documentation, reference part xiii. Fuel estimate shall be based on the fuel calculation scenario provided in part xiii of this combined synopsis/solicitation in the paragraph entitled “INVOICING FOR FUEL” and must coincide with the number of days necessary to complete line items 0001 and 0002.

Line Item 0005 – Base Period Estimated Moorage Period of Performance: August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016;

An estimated not-to exceed amount of $7,350.00 is established for moorage charges. Allowable moorage expenditures will be reimbursed up to the pre-approved amount and any overages must be approved in advance of incurring charges by the Contracting Officer. Reimbursement of this line item will be based upon actual costs incurred and shall be accompanied with the appropriate documentation.

OPTION ITEM: Line Item 0006 – Base Period: Additional Charter Days Period of Performance: August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016;

2016 Charter Vessel – NTE 10 DY: Additional days as necessary for a vessel charter supply to allow NOAA personnel to retrieve moorings in the Bering Sea in accordance with the Statement of Work.

Please note: Costs or expenses of any nature not described in excess of the liability described above (i.e. hotel stays, etc.) are not reimbursable by the Government. Expenses for these items must be built into the contractor’s proposed daily rate.

**LS = “Lump Sum” DY = “Day”

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(vi) Description of requirements is as follows:

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:

Acronyms: The following acronyms are used repeatedly in this solicitation:

AED Automated External Defibrillator AFSC Alaska Fisheries Science Center ARCWEST Arctic Whale Ecology Study BOEM Bureau of Ocean Energy Management CTD Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth EPIRB Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon ESA Endangered Species Act GPS Global Positioning System HazMats Hazardous Materials MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NMML National Marine Mammal Laboratory NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration PMEL Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory RHIB Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat

Summary of Requirements

One (1) commercial vessel with experienced crew is needed to retrieve and deploy passive acoustic and oceanographic moorings, conduct oceanographic sampling, and deploy and recover a towed vehicle in the Bering, Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. The vessel must be able to retrieve and deploy passive acoustic and biophysical moorings weighing up to two (2) tons, launch and retrieve a 23-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat, and conduct oceanographic sampling. The vessel must also have sufficient deck space to store a 10’ x 24’ scientific van and other scientific equipment including moorings, one (1) rigid-hulled inflatable boat and additional gear (as listed in Specification 1.12 and Attachment 1, and be equipped with modern navigation and communications electronics and be able to maneuver at speeds between 1.5 to 3 knots. The Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL), Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC), and National Marine Mammal Laboratory (NMML) Division will provide the moorings, rigid-hulled inflatable boats, and oceanographic gear. The survey areas include stations in the Chukchi Sea, which may have ice present. An experienced captain and a four-member crew will be needed to operate the vessel, while a Chief Scientist will direct survey operations. The vessel will load and unload survey gear at the NOAA Sand Point Pier on Lake Washington in Seattle, WA. The lake is accessible to oceangoing vessels via the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, known locally as the Ballard Locks.

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Background

The U.S. Department of Commerce, NOAA, PMEL, AFSC and NMML intend to jointly conduct scientific research in the US Arctic. The primary purpose is to assess spatial and temporal patterns of variability in this ecosystem including physical, chemical and biological measurements. This research will include passive acoustic, biological, and biophysical surveys of whales, including their prey and their environment in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas. The specific objectives of the research are to continue long-term observations in US Arctic including: conduct oceanographic sampling to determine spatial patterns of ocean currents, temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll; the transport and advection of krill, heat, salt and nutrients from the northern Bering Sea to the Barrow Arch area; and determine distribution, migratory patterns, and acoustic ecology of cetaceans in the Chukchi Sea.

The survey will explore the transport and advection of heat, salts, krill, and nutrients from the northern Bering Sea to the Barrow Arch area. Some of this research is a continuation of ArcWEST (funded by BOEM). BOEM is continuing to supply some funds in support of this cruise. Under the NEPA and the ESA, these data are needed by the BOEM to evaluate if and how federal actions associated with oil and gas development affect these whales. NMML and BOEM have entered into an interagency agreement, which defines the scope of the study. In addition to assessing the spatial and temporal patterns of large whales using passive acoustics and satellite tagging, the survey will explore the transport and advection of krill and nutrients from the northern Bering Sea to the Barrow Arch area.

Although the primary focus will be on the Chukchi Sea, PMEL, AFSC and NMML will also be conducting research in the Bering and Beaufort Seas. Additionally, opportunistic photo-identification and biopsy sampling will be conducted to complement current biological and population studies of large whales. The scientific party will consist of U.S. Government employees and/or their contractors and volunteers.

Objective

Conduct scientific operations as required by PMEL, AFSC and NMML to continue long-term physical, chemical, and lower trophic level observations, which began in 2010 to assess spatial and temporal patterns of large, endangered whales in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas.

Period of Performance

The Period of Performance for the 2016 Arctic Charter Survey is from August 3, 2016 through October 7, 2016. During this period, the base number of charter days is twenty (20) days with an option for up to ten (10) additional days. The exact start date will be determined by the Government in consultation with the Contractor. The optional charter days may be added in daily increments immediately following the base charter days. The charter work will take place in

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the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas. The charter cruise shall depart from Nome, AK and return to Dutch Harbor, AK, with possible stops at Nome, AK.

One (1) day pre-cruise and one (1) day post-cruise will be required for the loading and unloading of Government equipment. There will also be approximately ten (10) days for the pre-cruise transit between Seattle, WA, and Nome, AK and eight (8) days for the post-cruise transit between Dutch Harbor, AK and Seattle, WA.

If exercised, up to seven (7) of the option days would be used to retrieve moorings in the Bering Sea. This work would entail interrupting a transit leg to pick up two (2) scientists in Nome, AK, and then resuming the transit leg.

Mobilization, Demobilization, and Transit Requirements:

The mobilization (i.e., the loading) of Government equipment shall take place at the NOAA Sand Point Pier on Lake Washington in Seattle, WA. The Government prefers that the loading take place eleven (11) to fourteen (14) days prior to the start of the charter cruise.

The demobilization (i.e., unloading) of Government equipment shall also take place at the NOAA Sand Point Pier on Lake Washington in Seattle, WA. The Government prefers that the unloading take place eleven (8) to fourteen (14) days after the end of the charter cruise.

Transit from Seattle, WA to the starting port of Nome, AK by the charter cruise start date is required. Return transit from the ending port of Dutch Harbor, AK to Seattle, WA after the charter cruise end date is also required. The scientific party will not be on board during transits between Seattle, WA and Nome, AK or between Dutch Harbor, AK and Seattle, WA.

Cruise Requirements

PMEL has a requirement for the charter of a commercial vessel to support the deployment and recovery of passive acoustics equipment and moorings, collection of oceanographic data through the use of CTDs, zooplankton nets, and deployment/recovery of towed vehicle. The scientific party will conduct a variety of research activities such as the following: Oceanographic monitoring and sampling will be conducted by deploying and recovering long-term biophysical moorings and by performing oceanographic and zooplankton sampling; Passive acoustic monitoring will be conducted by deploying long-term moored acoustic recorders; Spatial distribution of marine mammals will be correlated with environmental data. In addition, during transit to and from the working area and when not conducting mooring, and/or oceanographic/zooplankton sampling, a passive acoustic survey will be conducted using sonobuoys, and a biological study of large whales will be conducted including, but not limited to visual surveys, and photo-identification. Sonobuoys will be deployed every three hours around the clock for the duration of the survey, including transit times, to acoustically monitor for the presence of whales. Visual surveys will be conducted during

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daylight hours using 25-power (Big Eye) binoculars from the observational area, weather permitting, or using hand-held binoculars from the bridge.

The Contractor shall be responsible for installing one (1) hydraulic Government-owned winch, one (1) electrohydraulic Government-owned winch, and one electric winch on deck prior to the ship’s departure for charter start. Installation includes bolting or welding the winches to the deck, connecting the winches to electrical or hydraulic power, and ensuring that they are operational at the specified ratings. Members of the scientific party will operate the winches during survey operations. An additional Government-owned electrohydraulic winch will be provided as a backup and shall be stored securely on the deck but not initially installed along with a capstan to be used to retrieve a deep mooring.

In the event that the primary winch fails, the Contractor must be capable of installing the back-up winch while at sea. Installation labor and material costs shall be included in the daily rate. See Specification 1.21 in A. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS below for winch and installation specifications.

The scientific party will embark in Nome, AK and disembark in Dutch Harbor, AK with the main portion of the charter cruise taking place in the Bering and Chukchi Seas. In-port time in Nome, AK may be required two(2) times.

The main acoustic/oceanographic portion of the survey shall occur in the Chukchi Sea. There will be approximately 30 moorings containing passive acoustic recorders, active acoustic instruments, and a variety of oceanographic instrumentation that shall be retrieved and redeployed (or initially deployed if it is a new station), and between 50-65 stations to sample. At least three (3) onshore/offshore transects, each consisting of approximately ten (10) CTD/net tow stations, and two (2) alongshore transects using the towed vehicle shall be conducted in the study area. In addition, dragging along the seafloor may be conducted in an attempt to recover any moorings from previous years on which the acoustic release fails. There shall be a final Nome, AK in-port after the Chukchi Sea acoustic/oceanographic portion of the survey. On the southbound leg in the Bering Sea, there shall be approximately thirteen (13) moorings to retrieve and redeploy.

All operations shall be conducted at the discretion of the Vessel Captain and the Chief Scientist depending on weather, research needs, and available time. The specific itinerary of the charter cruise will be flexible to allow for interruption of work by poor weather or equipment problems, and to maximize efficiency in the working area. Additional Government employees, Contractors, and Government equipment may need to be picked up and/or dropped off in Nome, Wainwright, Kotzebue, Barrow, or any other suitable transfer location near the working grounds.

A. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS

1.1. Minimum overall length of vessel of 150 feet. There is no maximum length of vessel for this requirement.

1.2. Minimum cruising speed of 8 knots.

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1.3. Clean, uncovered, flush deck space suitable for preparing, assembling, and deploying moorings, preparing and deploying oceanographic equipment, and for installation and operation of four winches (described in Specification 1.21). The deck work area(s) should be clear of the ship’s running gear, equipment, and stowage. Deployment and recovery of moorings and oceanographic equipment shall be done with a crane extendable to 20' past the side of the vessel and capable of lifting up to 2 tons while fully extended.

1.4. A-frame on the stern of the ship with a load capacity of at least 2 tons. The A-frame shall have a minimum width of 8 feet with a height of 20 feet and have cleats attached for line handling. It is recommended that the A-frame have a winch attached to the top and at the very least have two attachment points on the top of the A-frame for pulleys.

1.5. Space on deck for placing a scientific van (10’ x 24’) that serves as a work area and laboratory for the scientific party. The scientific van will be provided by the Government. The offeror shall be responsible for securing the scientific van to the deck using the van’s four (4) standard shipping container anchor points in such a manner that the van can handle 42-degree vessel rolls. The cost of securing the scientific van shall be included in the daily rate. 50 Amp electrical service shall be provided to the van. NOTE: This space is in addition to the space requirements listed in Specification 1.3.

1.6. Weather-proof, heated wheelhouse with room for an acoustic recording station inside the wheelhouse. Space is required for two laptop computers, a portable GPS unit, VHF receivers, and two (2) external hard drives (all provided by the Government). The station must be situated to allow direct communication with the visual observers and the vessel’s captain. Also required are an accessible 120 volt AC outlet and the ability to rig two (2) VHF antennas (including welded plates for mounting antenna bracket) in the crow’s nest of the ship and route the antennas to the VHF receiver inside the bridge. The antennas and VHF receiver will be provided by the Government.

1.7. An outside area suitable for observational work, preferably in close proximity to the wheelhouse, on the forward part of the vessel with room to mount two pairs of 25-power (Big Eye) binoculars, one on the starboard side and one on the port side. Binoculars, laptop, and GPS unit will be provided by the Government for use during the charter.

1.8. Room for a visual observation station inside the wheelhouse of the ship. This will consist of a laptop computer provided by the Government, positioned no more than five (5) feet from an AC outlet.

1.9. Vessel shall be equipped with electronic navigational and communication equipment in compliance with industry safety standards. All communication

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equipment shall be tested and tuned before the charter cruise begins.

Minimum requirements are:

i. Two (2) all-weather radars with a 36-mile minimum range.

ii. At least one (1) VHF radio with a fixed installation.

iii. At least one (1) synthesized 1-18 MHz Single Side Band radio capable of communicating with AT&T High Seas Marine Operator.

iv. A system for switching to backup power (e.g., battery) for radio operation in the event of interruption of the normal power supply.

v. Two (2) GPS units.

vi. One (1) fax machine capable of receiving weather information, or equivalent.

1.10. Capability for loading and off-loading the scientific party and a 23-foot RHIB with outboard motor (~3000lbs) to and from the water; the RHIB to be supplied by the Government. Loading and off-loading of the RHIB shall be with a crane extendable to 10' past the side of the vessel and capable of lifting up to 2 tons. There must be sufficient room on deck to allow for 3 to 4 tag-line operators and a clear view of the vessel from deck during the entire procedure. Storage of the RHIBs requires a clear and flush deck area of a least one 10’ by 27’ section.

1.11. Deck or crane-accessible outdoor space for storage of the following Government-provided equipment (xvi). Unless otherwise noted, equipment may be stored in the hold and craned onto the deck as needed for scientific operations. On-deck work area(s) should be clear of ship’s running gear, equipment, and stowage.

i. 28 AURAL recorders (each 6’x1’x1’)

ii. Seven (7) oceanographic instruments (each 4’x3’x2’)

iii. 40 acoustic releases (each 3’x1’x1.5’)

iv. 20 floats (30” or 40” sphere)

v. 40 railroad wheel anchors (3’ diameter stackable: 4 x 1600lbs., 4 x

2400lbs., 17 x 800lbs)

vi. Two (2) large surface buoy (8’ diameter)

vii. One (1) domed anchor (4’ diameter, 1500 lbs.)

viii. One (1) buoy tower (4’x4’)

ix. Two (2) mooring chain boxes (each 4’x4’x3’)

x. One (1) Tucker Sled (5’x4’x5’)

xi. One (1) CTD (4’x4’)

xii. One towed vehicle (Acrobat) (5’x3.4’x1.7’, 100 lbs.)

xiii. Four (4) instrument cages (4’x4’)

xiv. Approximately 350 sonobuoys (8 x 1000lb pallets, 4’x4’x4’). The sonobuoys should be accessible on deck in preparation for being deployed overboard for acoustic studies.

xv. One (1) 23’ RHIB (~3,000lbs).

xvi. Four (4) winches (stored on deck), as described in Specification

1.21.

1.12. Supply of 220 VAC (50 amp circuit) electrical service to the scientific van (scientific van will be provided by the Government) in which one minus 20o freezer and one minus 80o freezer will reside. 440 VAC 3-phase electrical service is required for operation of the two electrohydraulic

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winches and capstan. All should be in place, powered, and working prior to the ship’s departure from Seattle, WA.

1.13. Secure and easily accessible rail cleats to securely tie a RHIB alongside the vessel.

1.14. A watertight 55-gallon drum with a rotary hand pump for storage of gasoline for the RHIB. Gasoline will be provided by the Government.

1.15. Dry storage areas, readily accessible, providing a minimum of 1200 cubic feet for stowage of scientific supplies and other Government equipment.

1.16. A minimum of 10 cubic feet of freezer space for specimens in the event the supplied science freezers fail; if necessary, space may be divided between multiple freezers. The required space does not need to be separate from the vessel’s food stores.

1.17. Freshwater and seawater (non-fire hose) deck hose for washing down plankton nets and cleaning gear. On/off switches shall be readily accessible. A pressure washer shall be available for washing of oceanographic equipment.

1.18. An enclosed, weather-proof, temperature controlled area where two (2) lab benches (one 3’x6’, one 4’x2’) can be installed for a seawater filtration system, a chemical titration system and additional storage space (approximately 6’x2’, shelving space) within this area for filtration system equipment. This is in addition to the space required for the scientific van.

1.19. A minimum of 6’ x 3’ of deck space near the saltwater hose for a Government-supplied table to process plankton net samples.

1.20. Capability to install one (1) hydraulic winch, one (1)

electrohydraulic winch, and (1) one electric winch and to secure a back-up electrohydraulic winch on deck prior to the ship’s departure from Seattle, WA. (The Government will provide the winches, but the Contractor is responsible for installation of the winches.) The dragging hydraulic winch is 48” x 36”, weighs ~3000 lbs., and shall be positioned for deploying gear from the A-frame on the stern. It requires connection to the vessel’s hydraulic system, which shall provide a minimum of 2500 pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure. The hydraulic winch is fitted with a weak link rated to 10,000 lbs. of force and needs to be secured to the deck with an attachment rating that exceeds the 20,000 lbs. of force rating.

Installation shall be in such a manner that the hydraulic winch and the crane can be operated simultaneously. The primary electric winch is 56” x 79”, weighs 3500 lbs., and shall be positioned for deploying equipment over the stern of the ship. This winch requires 440 VAC 3-phase electrical service and shall be secured to the deck with an attachment rated for 5000 lbs. of pull on the winch. The primary electrohydraulic winch is 56” x 79”, PAGE 11 OF 67 AB-133R-16-RQ-0214 weighs 3500 lbs., and shall be positioned for deploying equipment over the side of the ship. This winch requires 440 VAC 3-phase electrical service and shall be secured to the deck with an attachment rated for 5000 lbs. of pull on the winch. The backup electrohydraulic winch is 56” x 79”, weighs 3500 lbs. and can runs on 440 VAC 3-phase power. It shall be stored securely on the deck but not installed. In the event the primary winch fails, the contractor must be capable of installing the back-up winch while at sea. Placement of the winches on the deck shall be done from discussions with the scientific crew to accommodate all scientific operations.

1.21. Space in crow’s nest for installation of one (1) standard VHF antenna with attached Yagi antenna, pointing astern, as high as possible using a standard Morad antenna bracket. In addition, pass-throughs for two (2) antenna cables and two (2) GPS cables into the wheelhouse shall be provided.

The scientific party will install the antennas.

1.22. Knuckle crane capable of lifting up to 2 tons while fully extended, to deploy at least 25 vertical feet of oceanographic equipment over the rail.

Crane shall be in compliance with the operational and safety standards specified by the manufacturer. All hydraulic hoses and fittings must be in good working order to prevent downtime and safety risks and must not leak onto the deck, as this poses a safety hazard.

1.23. Crane must be capable of towing equipment (Tucker sled) at a speed of

2.5 knots with an estimated drag of 1-2000 lbs. while extended to 10’ past the side of the vessel.

1.25 Vessel must be capable of towing a towed array (fish) at speeds of .5 to 5 knots while maintaining maneuverability. Towed array will be towed through a block attached to the top of the A-frame with cable leading to the electric winch. A small winch on the top of the A-frame is preferred to lift and lower the cable block but not mandatory. If no winch is available on the A-frame, access to the top of the A-frame must be available to switch out blocks and cables. Blocks will be provided by PMEL.

1.26. Potable fresh water supply adequate for vessel and personal use of at least fifteen scientists plus crew for up to seven (7) weeks. If a water maker is not available, then a minimum of 12,000 gallons is required.

1.27. Two (2) washers and two (2) clothes dryers for use by Government personnel for personal laundry.

1.28. Muffler on vessel must be in compliance with the operational standards specified by the manufacturer to ensure the vessel operates as quietly as possible for passive acoustic monitoring operations.

1.29. The Contractor shall provide Coast Guard approved Arctic-type survival suits, which are in compliance with operational safety standards, for all personnel including crew and scientists.

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1.30. The Contractor shall 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 (listed in Attachments 1, 2, and 3) to assist in the evaluation.

1.31. A Category I 406 MHz EPIRB must be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The EPIRB must be up to date on all Coast Guard registration and inspection.

1.32. The vessel shall carry an up-to-date emergency trauma first aid kit in compliance with industry safety standards. It shall be stocked to provide first aid supplies for up to fifteen (15) scientists plus vessel crew. At a minimum, this kit should be equivalent to the Marine 3000 made by Adventure Medical Kits (http://www.adventuremedicalkits.com/product.php?catname=Marine&prodname=Mar ine%203000&product=118#) and supplemented with a box of nitrile gloves, oxygen therapy bottles, and an AED. The Government will inspect the kit at least one month prior to the vessel’s departure or as soon as possible after contract award, in Seattle to ensure that all items are unexpired and the kit is inclusive of all necessary items.

B. DESIRED (BUT NOT REQUIRED) VESSEL CHARACTERISTICS

Should an offeror provide the following desirable items, additional consideration may be given to Evaluation Factor 1, Vessel Characteristics and Configuration.

2.1. Maximum draft of 20 feet.

2.2 Unobstructed deck space (i.e., only a low deck rail) next to the RHIB launching location so that the RHIB can be lifted and placed in the water with a minimum amount of time spent in the air. RHIB must be visible by line-handler(s) during entire launch procedure.

2.3. A drop of less than 12’ from the top of the rail to the waterline at the RHIB launching location.

2.4. Access to email communication for the scientific party, the cost of which shall be included in the daily charter rate. If email access is not available, it will be provided to the scientific party through a Government supplied satellite phone at no cost to the Contractor.

2.5 Weatherproof area to store all spare gear and packaging. Vertical shelving, several feet deep, (multiple shelves with a combined length of 60 feet total), capable of holding several hundred pounds per shelf and equipped with tie down points. This space is needed so that this gear can be readily accessible.

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2.6. Room for four (4) feet of dry bench space with an AC outlet to be used for computer work and/or satellite tag assembly.

2.7. The outside area described in 1.7 is at a height above the water line of at least 15 feet and is no more than one level and 10’ away from any wheelhouse door. The binoculars mounted in this area shall be mounted such that the port observer can scan from 10° right to 90° left of the vessel trackline, and the starboard observer from 10° left to 90° right.

C. CREW REQUIREMENTS

3.1. Minimum vessel crew shall consist of no fewer than five (5) crew members and shall consist of captain, engineer-mate, cook-mate, and two (2) deck hands/fishers.

3.2. The captain shall have a minimum of five (5) years of experience as a master of a vessel comparable in size to the vessel selected.

3.3. Additional consideration may be given for captains and crew with experience operating in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas, particularly with experience working in ice conditions in the Chukchi Sea, and with experience with mooring deployment and recovery.

3.4. The engineer-mate shall be qualified to independently take over operations of the vessel in the event the captain is absent or becomes incapacitated.

3.5. The deck hands/fishers shall be able to safely operate the crane.

There shall be at least two (2) crew members available on deck for all mooring, RHIB launching operations and other scientific operations, one to operate the crane or A-frame and one to assist the scientific party.

3.6. The cook-mate shall be experienced in preparing nutritionally balanced meals for twenty or more people, including vegetarian meals and/or specific food requirements that will be described in advance of the cruise.

3.7. At least one crew member shall be currently certified in CPR plus Wilderness First Aid Training, and qualified/certified to suture and administer intravenous medication.

3.8. All crew members shall be formally trained in survival skills and firefighting at a level equivalent to that offered by the North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners Association (http://www.npfvoa.org/index.html).

3.9. Replacements for Key Personnel must possess qualifications equal to or exceeding the qualifications of the personnel being replaced. Any changes to Key Personnel specified must be approved by the Contracting Officer and the COR.

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D. ACCOMMODATION REQUIREMENTS (all costs associated with accommodations and meals for crew and scientific party shall be included in the daily rate)

4.1. Accommodations for a scientific party of as many as fifteen (15) that will include female and male personnel. The scientific party shall be accommodated separately from the crew, in at least four bunk rooms.

4.2. Berthing spaces shall be adequately ventilated and free from excessive engine noise and fumes.

4.3. Clean mattresses, covers, bedding, and blankets shall be provided by the Contractor.

4.4. Suitable sanitary accommodations, including availability of two bathrooms for scientific party use and at least two showers shall be available. Hot, fresh water shower shall be provided at least every second day for each member of the scientific party. The bathroom areas (including head and shower) and hallways shall be cleaned at least twice a week by the crew.

4.5. Three balanced, nutritious meals shall be provided by the Contractor per day, one of which may be a shore lunch for the scientific party. All meals shall include fresh fruits and vegetables. Vegetarian meals may be required for some members of the party. Any food allergy information of prospective scientific party members or other special food requirements will be provided to the Contractor at least one (1) week prior to sailing to allow for proper provisioning. Water, juice, soft drinks, fruit, and snacks shall be available throughout the day. Due to the nature of the operation, meal hours must be flexible. The Captain and Chief Scientist will set meal hours that are mutually agreeable on a daily basis.

E. OPERATING PROCEDURES

5.1. All required marine mammal/scientific collection permits will be obtained by the Government prior to the charter.

5.2. While in the acoustic/oceanographic working area, operations may require the vessel to make frequent stops and remain in certain positions during mooring deployment and recovery or during oceanographic sampling activities. Station operations shall require the vessel to maintain position (0 net movement) or keep the ship on a slow steady course (1.5-2.5 knots) while towing instruments in moderate sea conditions to maintain either a zero-degree or 45-degree wire angle, as specified for that particular piece of sampling gear.

5.3. The crew, when not required by the Captain for vessel operations, shall assist the Government scientific party during all survey activities, including but not limited to: mooring deployment and recovery, oceanographic sampling operations (CTDs and net tows, deployment/recovery of towed

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vehicle, winch and crane operations), launching and retrieving the RHIB, and monitoring the location of the RHIB when away from the vessel.

5.4. Workday length will be determined each day by the Chief Scientist, in consultation with the Captain. The decision will be based on the type of activity as well as prevailing situations regarding weather, sea state, work schedule, and work progress. During the oceanographic legs, due to the large number of oceanographic and zooplankton stations, deck operations in any given 24-hour period will be of variable duration and frequency, at the discretion of the Chief Scientist and Captain. Oceanographic and zooplankton sampling will be conducted by a single team of scientific personnel, not multiple teams on rotating shifts. Based on previous surveys, it is anticipated that approximately ten (10) of the days in the Chukchi Sea will require working over a period longer than ten (10) hours, but work being conducted during these days tends to consist of alternating work (~1hr) and down time (~1hr) periods. However, deck operations can occur at any hour of the day. The Chief Scientist has final authority on working hours, 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.

5.5. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall meet a minimum of twice a day to discuss survey operations and resolve any problems that occur. A meeting should occur at the start of the day (before survey operations begin) to discuss the planned activities for the day, and at the end of the day to review the work completed that day, any problems which occurred, and plans for the next day’s operations.

5.6. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall work together to resolve all problems that occur regarding the charter and survey while at sea. In the event the Chief Scientist and Captain are unable to resolve any problem that has the potential for invalidating the survey or threatens the safety of the field party, the Chief Scientist will direct the vessel to return to port where an acceptable solution shall be arranged between the Government and the Contractor, or the charter shall be terminated. The vessel shall be off-charter if required to return to port and shall remain off-charter until the problem has been resolved and the vessel has returned to the survey area.

5.7. The Captain and crew shall exercise due caution and follow all safety procedures as directed by the Chief Scientist to help prevent damage to or loss of Government gear and equipment. Specific safety procedures may be presented in writing 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.

5.8. All equipment and gear specified in the Government's SOW and that which is not specified but is necessary for the safe and continued operation of

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the vessel shall be operational at the beginning of the charter and be maintained in working order throughout the duration of the charter.

5.9. Passengers are not permitted to be transported aboard NOAA chartered vessels for any reason without review and approval from the Contracting Officer in consultation with the COR. No individuals shall be aboard the vessel without NOAA’s authorization. Exceptions to this requirement are permitted for the purposes of rescuing and saving lives at sea.

F. SAFETY

6.1. The Captain shall be responsible for all matters relating to the safety of personnel, the vessel, and equipment operation. The Captain shall adhere at all times to Navigational Rules and Rules of the Road whether it be while towing, running, drifting, or when at anchor. He/she shall review safety procedures and equipment with the scientific party at the beginning of each cruise leg.

6.2. Prior to the first RHIB launch, the Captain shall review launch and recovery procedures, and select an operations leader and four (4) additional line handlers. These personnel shall be the only people involved in RHIB launch and recovery, and all launch and recovery procedures shall be discussed with the operations leader prior to every execution. The NMML small boat officer will be on the RHIB any time it is launched. After consultation with the Captain, the NMML small boat officer is responsible for all procedures pertaining to the RHIB launch, recovery, and underway operations.

6.3. The Government will provide dry suits, float coats, life vests, or equivalent flotation devices for work on deck.

6.4. Periodic and unannounced safety drills shall be conducted by the Captain during the survey.

6.5. The Contractor shall provide an emergency trauma first aid kit, nitrile gloves, oxygen therapy bottles, and an AED as described in Specification

1.31 under A. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS.

6.6. The Contractor shall provide the Stability Letter from the vessel's Stability Report as described in Specification 1.30 under A. VESSEL

REQUIREMENTS.

6.7. The Government will provide two small boat emergency kits, each containing a compact EPIRB and portable VHF radios for radio contact with the RHIB.

6.8. All personnel working on or being transported in a RHIB shall wear a Coast Guard-approved floatation coat, life jacket, dry suit and/or survival suit. Carrying life jackets in the RHIB but not wearing them is unacceptable.

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6.9. Radio contact with the RHIB shall be maintained by the crew while it is away from the vessel. The scientific and vessel crew shall maintain 100% visual contact with the RHIB during all operations.

6.10. A Category I 406 MHz EPIRB shall be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the U.S. Coast Guard as described in Specification 1.31 under A. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS.

6.11. The ship’s general alarm shall be audible from all sleeping locations.

6.12. All smoke alarms must be wired into the ship’s panel.

G. GOVERNMENT FURNISHED EQUIPMENT (FOR USE BY GOVERNMENT ONLY)

The Government will deliver all Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) and Government Furnished Property (GFP) to the ship at the NOAA Sand Point Pier on Lake Washington in Seattle, WA to facilitate mobilization. The schedule for loading Government Furnished Property and Equipment onto the offeror’s vessel will be at the discretion of the Captain in consultation with the Chief Scientist, but shall occur in such manner as to ensure timely transit to the charter cruise start point of Nome, AK. The Contractor is responsible for all GFE and GFP during the performance of the contract (including while the vessel is in transit, in-port, or on charter). Any damage or loss of GFP or GFE due to negligence on the part of the Contractor will be the responsibility of the Contractor.

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(vii) Acceptance will take place aboard the contracted vessel.

(viii) FAR 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors -- Commercial Items (OCT 2015), and addenda apply to this acquisition.

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

(a) Offerors shall submit all attachments with complete information. Offerors shall clearly and concisely submit a technical response that relates to the evaluation criteria in Section IX, specifically addressing the following:

Factor 1 – Technical Capability (Attachments 1 and 2)

Demonstrated ability to meet vessel and crew requirements as specified in the Statement of Work.

Offerors shall provide sufficient detailed information which demonstrates their technical capability, proposed technical approach, and how they plan to meet the specified requirements, and supplement this data by filling out Attachments 1 and

2. Do not simply copy and paste, rephrase or restate SOW language for the technical response.

Factor 2 – Past Performance (Attachment 3)

The Government will conduct a performance assessment based on the quality of the past performance of the Contractor and any major subcontractors on similar contracts as it relates to the probability of successful accomplishment of the required effort. The Government will use its discretion to determine the sources of past performance information used in the evaluation. Information utilized will be obtained from the references listed in the quote, other customers known to the Government, and other sources that may have useful and relevant information. Information will also be considered regarding any significant subcontractors and key personnel, who may be referenced on Attachment 3.

Offerors shall distribute Attachment 3 to a minimum of three (3) customers, and provide a listing of those customers to NOAA in conjunction with their proposal.

The list must contain the firms’ names, the representative to whom the form was provided, a telephone number of the contact and an email address. Offeror’s customers are requested to complete the Past Performance form and submit the form by email directly to the Contract Specialist noted below.

If an offeror does not have a history of similar or relevant past performance, or if it is not available, it should be noted as such in the quote.

NOTE: Upon completion of the form, the customer shall return it to:

DOC, NOAA, Western Acquisition Division by email to: noah.nielsen@noaa.gov.

Please Note: Any Exceptional, Marginal or Unsatisfactory rating assessed by the customer on individual elements or overall rating assigned on the past performance questionnaire, shall include an explanatory narrative to be provided in the remarks block. These narratives need not be lengthy, just adequately detailed to support evidence of the specific ratings noted above. Failure to

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provide information supporting the assigned rating may result in a different rating being designated than that assigned by the customer.

Offerors shall make every effort to ensure that forms are received no later than the submission date stated in the solicitation for the proposal in order to be considered for evaluation of this factor. Questionnaires submitted directly by the offeror rather than by the customer may not be considered.

If an offeror does not have a history of relevant contract experience, or if past performance information is not available, the offeror will receive a neutral past performance rating.

Factor 3 – Price

Price quotes must generally adhere to the pricing structure established in the Schedule of Items. Each offeror's price quote must be based on the offeror's own technical quote, the Government's Statement of Work and other contractual requirements. If the prices to be used are based on a published price list or catalog, the quoter shall so state, and provide a copy of the document with its price quote. If the prices are to be based on established market prices, not otherwise published, or are prices applicable only to the proposed contract, the quoter shall so state.

In order to determine that offered prices are fair and reasonable, the Government reserves the right to request that the quoter provide cost breakdowns to support proposed prices. Information to support unit prices should include, but not be limited to, the following:

(A) Salary/wage information with associated payroll expenses, for personnel to be used in performance of the contract;

(B) Cost for equipment, supplies, and consumable materials;

(C) A breakout of related support costs, such as equipment maintenance, rental, transportation, etc;

(D) Overhead costs;

(E) General Administrative expenses; and

(F) Profit

NOTICE TO OFFERORS: Instructions for submitting quotations under this request for quote must be followed. Failure to provide all information to aid in the evaluation may be considered non-responsive. Offers that are non-responsive may be excluded from further evaluation and rejected without further notification to the offeror.

1. Quotes shall be fully executed and returned on the Standard Form (SF) 18 and any acknowledgements of solicitation amendments on the SF 30.

2. Submit quotations by email to Noah Nielsen, at noah.nielsen@noaa.gov, at or before the time specified in the solicitation. Electronic/email quotes should be compatible with Microsoft Suite or Adobe. The Government will not be responsible for any failure attributable to the transmission or receipt of the electronic information, including the missing of any deadlines that may be established by the process. It is the offeror’s responsibility to confirm receipt of any transmitted information.

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3. In addition to the Contractor’s full technical and price proposal submissions, the Contractor shall also provide the following information:

a) Point of contact name, telephone, facsimile and E-mail address.

b) DUNS Number.

c) Acknowledgement of registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) database.

d) Identification of Authorized Negotiators, including name, telephone, facsimile and E-mail address.

e) Certification that Representations and Certifications have been executed by an…