Attachment_Specifications.pdf

Specifications

Aluminum Boat, Motor, & Trailer

CFWSC Tampa Data Section

1. Purpose

The Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center (CFWSC) Tampa Data Section requires the acquisition of a new boat, motor, and trailer. The vessel is required to safely access and service newly added monitoring sites in the

Gulf of America and to support ongoing coastal and offshore data collection, and diving operations.

2. Background

The Tampa Data Section has expanded its operational responsibilities to include additional monitoring stations located in the Gulf of America. Current vessels in the fleet are small, light‑duty craft designed for inland waterways and are not capable of safely operating in coastal environments. These limitations restrict access to offshore stations, increase operational risk, and reduce the reliability of mission‑critical data collection.

Field crews routinely navigate shallow, rocky channels and open‑Gulf conditions while transporting heavy equipment and performing construction, maintenance, and SCUBA‑based underwater work. These activities require a vessel with significantly greater structural strength, stability, and safety features than the existing fleet can provide.

3. Operational Need

A purpose‑built, heavy‑duty aluminum vessel is essential to:

• Ensure safe transport of personnel, SCUBA divers, and heavy construction materials

• Maintain reliable access to remote and offshore monitoring stations

• Protect sensitive scientific equipment during transit

• Reduce operational downtime caused by weather limitations or vessel inadequacy

• Meet safety requirements for underwater maintenance and construction activities

Without a coastal‑capable vessel, the Data Section cannot fully meet mission requirements or ensure staff safety.

4. Required Vessel Specifications

4.1 Hull and Structural Requirements

• Square‑bow, V‑hull design capable of cutting through waves while operating on plane in approximately

18 inches of water. In addition, the square bow allows a safe approach to channel markers and wide stable surface when exiting the vessel.

• Heavy marine‑grade aluminum hull, minimum 0.25‑inch thickness

• Heavy‑duty rub rail suitable for repeated contact with steel channel markers

• Minimum 21‑foot length to accommodate a three‑person crew, SCUBA gear, and construction materials

4.2 Diver Access and Safety

• Rear platform with steel ladder, side entry door, and integrated safety/grab rails for safe SCUBA entry and exit

4.3 Storage and Equipment Protection

• Weather‑resistant storage compartments for sensitive monitoring instruments

5. Additional Required Features

5.1 Trailer

• Twin‑axle aluminum trailer with corrosion‑resistant components for saltwater use

5.2 Motor and Controls

• 250‑hp four‑stroke outboard engine with stainless steel propeller, matched for best performance.

• Hydraulic steering

5.3 Deck, Hardware, and Safety Equipment

• Six welded aluminum cleats (forward, mid‑ship, aft)

• Non‑slip protective deck and gunnel coating

• Navigation lights, horn, and bilge pump

5.4 Electronics and Instrumentation

• Fuel and tachometer gauges

• Navigation/chart‑plotter with depth finder for navigating open gulf waters

• Marine‑grade VHF radio

• Two 12‑volt/USB power points

5.5 Console and Structural Features

• Center console with bench seating and storage

• Forward seat with storage box

• Metal T‑top with wrap‑around windshield

• Trim tabs

• 80‑gallon fuel tank for extended range

6. Safety Considerations

Safety is the primary driver for this procurement. The current fleet does not provide the structural integrity, stability, or diver‑support features required for coastal operations. The new vessel will significantly enhance safety in the following ways:

• Improved vessel stability: A heavier, wider, square‑bow V‑hull design reduces the risk of capsizing or instability in rough Gulf conditions.

• Safer diver operations: A dedicated rear dive platform with ladder and grab rails ensures controlled entry and exit, reducing the risk of diver injury.

• Enhanced crew protection: A metal T‑top with wrap‑around windshield shields personnel from waves, debris, and inclement weather.

• Reduced collision and impact hazards: Heavy‑gauge aluminum construction and a reinforced rub rail protect the vessel and crew when securing to steel channel markers.

• Reliable emergency communication: Marine‑grade VHF radio and navigation systems support rapid response in emergency situations.

• Lower fatigue and strain: Adequate deck space and proper equipment storage reduce trip hazards and ergonomic risks during loading, unloading, and maintenance tasks.

The new vessel raises the standards for safe marine and diving operations.

7. Cost–Benefit Considerations

7.1 Cost Avoidance and Risk Reduction

• Reduced safety risk: A structurally reinforced vessel minimizes the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and equipment loss in rough coastal conditions.

• Lower maintenance and repair costs: Heavy‑gauge aluminum construction and corrosion‑resistant components reduce long‑term repair frequency and extend vessel lifespan.

• Fewer weather‑related delays: A coastal‑capable hull allows crews to operate safely in conditions that would sideline current vessels, improving mission reliability.

7.2 Operational Efficiency

• Expanded mission capability: The vessel enables access to offshore stations that cannot be safely reached with existing craft.

• Improved productivity: Adequate deck space, storage, and diver‑support features reduce time spent staging equipment and performing maintenance tasks.

• Long‑term value: Investing in a durable, purpose‑built vessel reduces the need for premature replacement and supports multi‑year operational planning.

7.3 Protection of High‑Value Assets

• Sensitive monitoring equipment transported to Gulf stations represents a significant investment.

• A stable, secure vessel reduces the risk of damage to these assets during transit.

Overall, the benefits of acquiring a coastal‑capable vessel significantly outweigh the upfront cost by reducing operational risk, improving mission readiness, and ensuring long‑term efficiency

8. Delivery:

• Delivery required within 90 days after award

• If the contractor facility is located 120 miles or more from the government facility (Tampa, FL 33612), the contractor is responsible for transportation/delivery, otherwise the government is responsible.

• Deliver To:

USGS Florida Water Sci Ctr - Tampa

10500 University Center Drive, Suit

Tampa, FL 33612