0FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

1875 ORANGE AVE E

TALLAHASSEE, FL 32311-6160

(850) 488-6551

Offshore Research Vessel(s)

FWC 26/27-17

INVITATION TO BID

ITB BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Purpose: The intent of this bid is to obtain competitive pricing for the purchase of three 25- to 27-foot offshore center console vessels, each ordered as needed, to be used in a commercial manner for marine research and the retrieval of stone crab traps, per the specifications contained herein. Only responsive and responsible Contractors will be considered for award of this Invitation to Bid

(ITB).

Responsive: To be responsive, a bid must constitute a definite, firm, unqualified and unconditional offer to meet all of the material terms of this ITB. Material terms are those that could affect the price, quantity, quality, or delivery. Also included as material terms are those which are clearly identified in this ITB and which, for reasons of policy, must be complied with at risk of bid rejection for non-responsiveness.

Non-Responsive: Any submission that does not comply with this ITB in any way, does not contain all the properly signed forms, supplements or deviates from the Bid requirements or has an incomplete Price Sheet may be considered nonresponsive at the discretion of the Procurement Manager.

Responsible Vendors: The Commission shall only consider responsible vendors. Responsible vendors are those that have, in the sole judgment of the Commission, the financial ability, experience, resources, skills, capability, reliability and business integrity necessary to perform the requirements of the contract. The Commission may also consider references and quality to determine the responsibility of the bid. The Commission reserves the right to use any information, whether supplied through the Bidder’s submission or otherwise obtained, in determining responsibility.

Sealed Bid: In response to an Invitation to Bid (ITB), a sealed bid is the final submission of a bid from a vendor prior to the bid deadline, after which no further submissions will be considered.

Rejection of Bids: The Commission reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any minor irregularity in the submissions received in response to this ITB. The Commission reserves the right to consider all information, whether submitted or otherwise, to determine responsiveness and responsibility and to reject bids accordingly.

Name of Business: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact Person Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Business Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ______________________________ State: _______________________________ Zip code: _______________________________________

Phone: _____________________________ Fax: __________________________________ Email: _______________________________________

Federal Employer Identification Number: _________________________ ____________________________________________________________

The undersigned attest to the following:

“We understand all of the terms, conditions and the specifications contained herein and agree to abide by all of the terms, conditions and the specifications in their entirety.

Authorized Signature (Manual): ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Authorized Signature Name (Typed) and Title: __________________________________________________________________________________

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 3 of 70

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FWC 26/27-17

SCHEDULE DUE DATE METHOD

Bid Advertised September 14, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal (VIP)

Deadline for Questions

Must be received PRIOR to:

September 21, 2026

@ 5:00 PM ET

See Solicitation Questions Clause

Anticipated date for Responses to Written Questions

September 24, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal

SEALED BIDS DUE

(REMEMBER: The bid number should be clearly marked on envelope)

Must be received PRIOR to:

October 1, 2026

@ 2:30 PM ET

Mailing Address:

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission Attn: Purchasing 1875 Orange Ave E Tallahassee, Florida 32311-6160

Submissions are due BEFORE the date and time of the public opening.

Public Bid Opening October 1, 2026

@ 2:30 PM ET

Public Opening Options for Attendance:

-In Person- 1875 Orange Ave E Tallahassee, FL 32311-6160

-Teleconference- Conference call phone number: 1.888.585.9008

Conference room number: 218-721-199

Anticipated Date of Intended Award October 5, 2026 Posted on the Vendor Information Portal https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 4 of 70

GENERAL CONDITIONS

FWC 26/27-17

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC or Commission) mission is to manage fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people. The Commission administers six (6) major programs including habitat and species conservation, freshwater fisheries management, law enforcement, marine fisheries management, hunting and game management and fish and wildlife research.

A Bidder submitting a bid shall be registered in the MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) system and where required, the Sunbiz system prior to the bid opening. Business entities which must be on file with Sunbiz include the following foreign and domestic entities: Corporations for and not for profit, Limited Liability Companies (LLC), Limited Partnerships (LP) including Limited Liability Limited Partnerships (LLLP), and organizations doing business under a fictitious name (DBA). A Bidder may not be considered for an award, if not registered in the MFMP and Sunbiz system. The Bidder’s registration address and federal employer identification (FEID) number should match the Bidder’s address and FEID number listed on the Bidder Acknowledgment form (Page 2).

Certified Minority-owned, Woman-owned and Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises, as certified by the State of Florida Office of Supplier Development, are encouraged by the Commission to participate in the bidding process.

Bids from Bidders shall include all necessary equipment to complete the job. The bidder is required to supply all specified documentation when submitting a bid for this project.

Please note:

• The terms “Contract,” “Agreement” and “Purchase Order” are used interchangeably in the document.

• The terms “Commodities” and “Goods” are used interchangeably in the document.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

PUR 1000 and PUR1001 are hereby incorporated by reference. PUR1000 and PUR1001 can be found at the Department of Management Services website at the following link:

https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur _forms

The following terms and conditions take precedence over the PUR1001 and PUR1000 forms where applicable. The Commission objects to and shall not consider any additional terms or conditions submitted by a Bidder or Contractor, including any appearing in documents attached as part of a Bidder’s response. In signing and submitting its bid, a Bidder agrees that any additional terms or conditions, whether submitted intentionally or inadvertently, shall have no force or effect. Failure to comply with terms and conditions, including those specifying information that must be submitted with a bid, shall be grounds for rejecting a bid.

The terms and conditions of Attachment A, Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, are hereby incorporated into this solicitation. Any contract resulting from this solicitation will include the terms and conditions of this solicitation and the terms and conditions contained in Attachment A.

PROCUREMENT MANAGER

Xavier Wilson xavier.wilson@myfwc.com https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms https://www.dms.myflorida.com/business_operations/state_purchasing/state_agency_resources/state_purchasing_pur_forms

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 5 of 70

ESTIMATED BUDGET

The Commission has an estimated budget for this project of $285,000.00.

TERM

The contract will be effective for three year(s) upon issuance of Purchase Order.

If circumstances constituting Force Majeure have occurred, or if anything occurs beyond the Contractor’s control, the Contractor shall submit an extension request in writing. The Project Manager and Contract Manager will review the extension request and if they determine it is justified, will forward to the Bid Request Inbox (bidrequest@myfwc.com) for procurement review and approval/disapproval.

SUBCONTRACTS

Subcontracting IS NOT permitted pursuant to the Terms and Conditions of the Purchase Order. The Subcontractor Minority Status Report (Attachment C) shall be submitted with each invoice for payment.

DIVERSITY

The Commission is committed to supporting Florida’s diverse business industry and population through ensuring participation by minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises in the economic life of the state. The State of Florida Mentor Protégé Program connects minority, women, and veteran-owned business enterprises with private corporations for business development mentoring. We strongly encourage contractors doing business with the State of Florida to consider this initiative. For more information on the Mentor Protégé Program, please contact the Office of Supplier Development at (850) 487-0915 or osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com.

FWC encourages diversity in its procurement program and requests that all subcontracting opportunities afforded by this solicitation enthusiastically embrace diversity. The award of subcontracts should reflect the vast array of citizens in the State of Florida. Bidders can visit the Office of Supplier Development website for information on certified business enterprises that may be considered for subcontracting opportunities. However, pursuant to Section 287.05701 F.S., the Commission may not request documentation of or consider a vendor’s social, political, or ideological interests when determining if the vendor is a responsible vendor, nor give preference to a vendor based on the vendor’s social, political, or ideological interests.Click or tap here to enter text.

VERBAL INSTRUCTION PROCEDURE

Bidders may not consider any verbal instructions as binding upon the Commission. No negotiations, discussions, or actions shall be initiated or executed by the Bidder as a result of any discussion with any Commission employee. Only those communications from the Commission that are in writing, may be considered as a duly authorized expression on behalf of the Commission.

SOLICITATION QUESTIONS

Any questions from Bidders that require an official FWC answer concerning this project shall be submitted in writing to the Procurement Manager. This includes specification inquiries, such as questions or requests for additional or altered terms and conditions. Questions to the Procurement Manager shall not constitute formal protest of the specifications or of the solicitation. Questions must be received no later than the date and time specified in the Calendar of Events (Page 3). Questions may be sent via email with the solicitation number in the subject line. It is the responsibility of the bidder to confirm receipt of questions if needed.

mailto:bidrequest@myfwc.com?subject=Extension%20Request https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program mailto:osdinfo@dms.myflorida.com https://www.dms.myflorida.com/agency_administration/office_of_supplier_diversity_osd/mentor_protege_program

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 6 of 70

If questions are received, an addendum will be issued and shall be posted on the Vendor Information Portal (https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com).

LIMITATION ON BIDDER CONTACT DURING SOLICITATION PERIOD

Bidders to this solicitation or persons acting on their behalf may not contact, between the release of the solicitation and the end of the 72-hour period following the Commission posting the notice of intended award, (i.e., the 72-hour posting period excludes Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays) any employee or officer of the executive or legislative branch concerning any aspect of this solicitation, except in writing to the Procurement Manager or as provided in the solicitation documents. Violation of this provision may be grounds for rejecting a response.

BIDDER SPECIFICATION CHALLENGE

Any protest concerning the specifications of this solicitation shall be made in accordance with PUR1001, paragraph 20, “Protests”. A notice of protest of the solicitation documents shall be made within seventy-two hours after the posting of the solicitation. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section 120.57(3)(b), F.S., shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, F.S.

ADDENDUMS

If the Commission finds it necessary to supplement, modify or interpret any portion of the specifications or documents or answer any Bidder questions during the ITB period an addendum shall be posted on the Vendor Information Portal internet site. Each Bidder is responsible for monitoring the Vendor Information Portal website (https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com) for new or changing information relative to this procurement. The Commission bears no responsibility for any delays, or resulting impacts, associated with a Bidder’s failure to obtain the information made available through the Vendor Information Portal.

BIDDER ACKNOWLEDGMENT

In order for this bid to be valid, the bid must be completed in its entirety, signed by the Bidder and returned, as part of the bid or the bid will be rejected. By affixing your signature to the ITB Bidder Acknowledgement Form (page 2), the Bidder hereby states that the Bidder has read all bid specifications and conditions and agrees to all terms, conditions, provisions, specifications, and is currently licensed to do business within the State of Florida, if required by State or Federal Law, for the services or commodities the Bidder will provide the Commission under these bid specifications.

MANDATORY RESPONSIVE REQUIREMENTS

The Commission will not review Bids from Bidders who do not meet the mandatory responsive requirements listed in Attachment B, Mandatory Responsive Requirements. Note: The Commission will perform an initial responsiveness check.

Bids found to be non-responsive will not be considered for award. The Commission reserves the right to act upon information discovered during and after the initial responsiveness check impacting the responsibility or responsiveness of the Bid or Bidders.

REFERENCES

Each prospective Bidder shall provide a minimum of three (3) references for similar projects completed. Current contact names and phone numbers shall be included with the bid package. See the attached references form for reference requirements.

EQUAL BIDS

In the event that there is no multiple award contemplated in the ITB, and the Commission receives equal bids eligible for award, the Commission will comply with the following, as applicable: sections 287.057(12), 287.082, 287.087,287.092, Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 7 of 70

295.187(4)(a), and 295.187(4)(b), F.S. In order to clarify the Bidders’ status with regard to the applicable statutory preference requirements, the Commission may request information from Bidders with equal bids. A Bidder will not be permitted to amend or supplement its Bid in response to such request for clarification. If the tie has not been broken by application of the aforementioned statutes, the Commission will proceed with a random selection to decide the award.

SUPPORTING/SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

The Commission requires that bidders submit all required technical, specification, and other supporting information with their bid, so that a detailed analysis and determination can be made, by the Contract Manager that the product/service offered meets this ITB’s specifications and that other requirements of this ITB have been met. However, provided a bid meets the requirements for a definite, firm, unqualified, and unconditional offer, the Commission reserves the right to request supplemental information from the bidder after the bids have been opened to ensure that the products/services offered completely meet this ITB’s requirements. The requirement for such supplemental information will be at the reasonable discretion of the Commission and may include the requirement that a bidder will provide a sample product(s) so that the Commission can make a first-hand examination and determination.

A bidder's failure to provide this supplemental information or the product sample(s), within the time set by the Commission, will cause the Commission to consider the Contractor non-responsive and reject the Contractor’s bid.

CONFIDENTIALITY/PUBLIC RECORDS LAW

Bidders are cautioned that Florida law generously defines what constitutes a public record and grants broad rights of public access to those records; see, for example, section 119.07, F.S. If a Bidder believes that its response contains information that is confidential or exempt from disclosure under Florida Law, the Bidder shall clearly segregate and mark that information (for example, stamp each page "Confidential" and place it in an envelope marked "Confidential") and briefly describe in writing the grounds and specific legal citations for claiming exemption from the public records law. If after the notice of intended decision or thirty (30) days after bid opening, whichever is earlier, the Commission receives a public record request related to the solicitation, the Commission will provide copies of public records that are not exempt to the requester. The Commission will endeavor to provide notice to the Bidder of all public records requests received related to documents provided by the Bidder that were marked pursuant to this paragraph. In no event shall the Bidder hold the Commission or any of its employees or agents liable for disclosing, or otherwise failing to protect the confidentiality of, information submitted in response to this solicitation.

MAILING INSTRUCTIONS

All bids shall be submitted in a SEALED ENVELOPE addressed to:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Attn: Purchasing 1875 Orange Ave E Tallahassee, Florida 32311-6160.

The envelope shall be plainly marked on the outside with: BID NUMBER, DATE AND TIME OF THE BID OPENING.

THE COMMISSION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE OPENING OF ANY ENVELOPES THAT ARE NOT PROPERLY MARKED .

PLEASE NOTE: The Commission’s official business hours of operation are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ET, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and state holidays. Selecting delivery services, such as next day first delivery, may result in attempted delivery prior to opening or closing, and the Commission will not be available to accept those deliveries. THE COMMISSION IS NOT

RESPONSIBLE FOR LATE SUBMISSIONS DUE TO COMPLICATIONS RELATED TO SELECTED DELIVERY SERVICES . DIGITAL SUBMISSIONS SHALL

BE DEEMED NON-RESPONSIVE AND SHALL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 8 of 70

SOLICITATION PUBLIC OPENING

The public opening of this bid will be conducted at the date, time and method specified on the Calendar of Events (Page 3).

BIDS RECEIVED AFTER THE SPECIFIED DATE AND TIME WILL BE REJECTED.

Any person with a qualified disability shall not be denied equal access and effective communication regarding any bid/proposal documents or the attendance at any related meeting or bid/proposal opening. If accommodations are needed because of a disability, please contact the Purchasing Section at (850) 488-6551 at least three (3) workdays prior to the opening.

AWARDED BID/INSPECTION

The Commission will award the bid to the responsive, responsible bidder who submits the lowest bid price. If deemed necessary, an interview with the bidder by the Contract Manager may be required before the bid is awarded.

The Commission reserves the right to inspect the prospective Contractor’s materials and background record prior to making an award of the Contract. If the Contract Manager determines the lowest bidder does not have sufficient experience, equipment, etc. to meet the specifications of this ITB, the Commission reserves the right to reject the bidder and evaluate the next lowest bidder.

POSTING OF BID TABS

Bid Tabulations with Contractors identified as awarded bidders will be posted electronically as Agency Decisions on the Department of Management Services Vendor Information Portal as a Public Notice. The Agency Decision may be viewed at https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com, and will remain posted for a period of 72 hours. Failure to file a protest within the time prescribed in Section 120.57(3)(b), F.S., shall constitute a waiver of proceedings under Chapter 120, F.S.

Awarded Bidders are instructed not to proceed until a Purchase Order, Formal Written Contract, Lease, Notice to Proceed, or some other form of written notice is given to the Contractor by the Commission. A company or person who proceeds prior to receiving a Purchase Order, Formal Written Contract, Lease, Notice to Proceed, or some other form of written notice from the Commission does so without a contract and at their own risk.

Sealed bids, proposals, or replies received by an agency pursuant to a competitive solicitation are exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution until such time as the agency provides notice of an intended decision or until thirty (30) days after opening the bids, proposals, or final replies, whichever is earlier.

SCOPE CHANGES AFTER CONTRACT EXECUTION

The Commission shall provide written notice to the successful bidder thirty (30) days in advance of any Commission required changes to the technical specifications and/or scope of service that affect the successful bidder’s ability to provide the service as specified herein. Any changes that are other than purely administrative changes will require a change order.

FWC CONTRACT MANAGER

The FWC employee identified as the Contract Manager shall perform the following on behalf of the FWC:

• review, verify, and approve receipt of services/deliverables from the Contractor;

• submit requests for change orders/amendments/renewals, if applicable;

• review, verify, and approve invoices from the Contractor; and, if applicable, complete the Certificate of Contract Completion form; and https://vendor.myfloridamarketplace.com/ http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0100-0199/0119/Sections/0119.07.html

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 9 of 70

• maintain an official record of all correspondence between the Commission and the Contractor and forward the original correspondence to the Procurement Manager for the official file.

DELIVERABLES

The following services or service tasks are identified as deliverables for the purposes of the subsequent Contract:

a. Performance of all services set forth in the Scope of Work.

b. Submission of all invoicing, supporting documentation, Corrective Action Plans and reports.

WARRANTIES/DAMAGED ITEMS/DELIVERY

The Contractor shall assume full responsibility for providing or ensuring warranty coverage and/or warranty service on any and all items including goods, materials, or equipment provided to the Commission. If Contractor is not the Manufacturer, all Manufacturer warranties must be passed through to the Commission.

Delivery shall be made no later than the specified Delivery Date. The Contractor shall pay all costs associated with delivery and shall assume full responsibility for all item(s) damaged prior to the F.O.B. destination delivery and agree to hold harmless the Commission of all responsibility for prosecuting damage claims.

The Contractor shall assume full responsibility for replacement of all defective or damaged goods within thirty (30) days of notice by the Commission of such defect or damage.

GUARANTEE

If products do not comply with the specifications contained herein, the Contractor shall replace the product(s), or the purchase price shall be refunded. The refund or the delivery of the replacement product(s) shall be made within thirty

(30) days following the Contract Manager’s notification to the Contractor that the original product(s) was non-compliant.

Costs of returning the original product(s) will be the sole responsibility of the Contractor.

MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT ON COMMISSION PROPERTY

If the Commission allows the Contractor to have project materials or equipment delivered to and/or stored upon the Commission-managed or owned property before, during, or after the term of the project, the Contractor will be fully and solely responsible for all expenses and liability incurred as a result of the delivery or storage. Should the Commission, in its sole discretion, determine that any project materials or equipment stored on its property must be moved in response to an emergency, the Contractor shall hold harmless, indemnify, defend, and may be responsible for costs of any reasonably necessary actions taken by the Commission.

AUTHORIZED COMPENSATION

It is understood and agreed that all compensation under this ITB is specifically limited to the Contractor’s bid price accepted by the Commission, and to the specific procedure for payment established in this ITB and the Purchase Order executed pursuant to it. The Commission is not liable for any costs, fees, expenses or any other compensation whatsoever incurred or charged by the Contractor, other than the bid price paid for the work specifically described in the Scope of Work, which work is actually accomplished and invoiced by the Contractor subsequent to the Commission’s notice to proceed (or other notice to begin work). Thus, the Commission is not liable for any costs incurred or charged by the Contractor in anticipation of responding to, or performing work described in, this ITB including, but not limited to, equipment or personnel procured by the Contractor in anticipation of such work. The Commission is not responsible to the Contractor for any loss or damages resulting from circumstances unforeseen at the time of publication of this ITB including, but not limited to, those resulting from a “force majeure”.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 10 of 70

ADDITIONAL LEGAL REQUIREMENT

All corporations seeking to do business with the State shall, at the time of submitting a bid, be on file with the Department of State in accordance with provisions of Chapter 607, F.S.; similarly, partnerships seeking to do business with the State shall, at the time of submitting such bid, have complied with the applicable provisions of Chapter 620, F.S. For further information on required filing and forms, please go to the following sites: http://sunbiz.org or http://dos.myflorida.com.

USE OF CONTRACT BY OTHER STATE AGENCIES AND ELIGIBLE USERS

As provided in Chapter 60A-1.045, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), and Section 287.042(16), F.S., other State of Florida agencies may purchase from the resulting contract of this ITB, provided that the Department of Management Services has determined the contract’s use is cost effective and in the best interest of the State, and with the Contractor’s consent.

Other State of Florida governmental entities and eligible users may also request of the Contractor to be able to use this contract. If the Contractor agrees to other entities to utilize this ITB contract, such agencies shall coordinate their use of this contract with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in order to reduce scheduling conflicts.

CONDITIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

The bidder is required to examine carefully the conditions and specifications of this bid and to be thoroughly informed regarding any and all requirements of the conditions and specifications.

http://www.sunbiz.org/ http://dos.myflorida.com/

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 11 of 70

SCOPE OF WORK

FWC 26/27-17

OFFSHORE RESEARCH VESSEL(S)

PURPOSE

The intent of this bid is to obtain competitive pricing for the purchase of three vessels. Each vessel will be purchased as needed depending upon annual appropriations. Each will be an offshore center console vessel to be used in a commercial manner for the retrieval of stone crab traps and other marine research. The hull of each offshore center console vessel shall be constructed of fiberglass over non-wood composite material with designed characteristics to include a full V from bow to stern for offshore running in rough water, and stern mounted engines. Minimum specifications may be slightly altered or changed based on the vendor’s opinions of functionality if the Project Manager (PM) approves the changes before they are made. All materials used in construction of the vessels shall be marine grade. The vessels should be constructed to be durable and for commercial use with the following specifications:

1. MANUFACTURE SPECIFICATIONS

1.1. The buyer understands that some vessel manufacturers utilize proprietary designs, lamination schedules, and materials that may exceed the minimum standards provided within the below specification. The PM may approve materials or processes outside of the specifications, provided the manufacturer can satisfactorily demonstrate that their design or product exceeds the minimum requirements.

2. BASIC SPECIFICATIONS

Fabrication of offshore center console vessel with the following base specifications:Click or tap to enter a date.

2.1. Hull Length of 25-27 ft

2.2. Overall length 25-30ft

2.3. Maximum beam width 8 feet 6 inches and minimum beam width 8 feet

2.4. Gunwale height from deck to top of Gunwale shall be no lower than 24” and no higher than 32”

2.5. 6”-8” gunwale caps (width) capable of supporting equipment and crew. Starboard gunwales shall be of enough strength and reinforced to not deform under load from trap hauler used to retrieve traps. Load bearing needs and reinforcement will be discussed with the Vendor prior to construction of the vessel and approved by the PM.

3. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

3.1. STANDARDS:

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3.1.1. Vessel shall be fully operational upon delivery.

3.1.2. Vessels shall meet all United States Coast Guard (USCG), American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), and common industry standards.

3.1.3. Manufacturer shall provide all compliance certifications and associations.

3.1.4. The vessel shall be capable of eligibility for State of Florida Marine Vessel Registration.

4. LAMINATE MATERIALS:

4.1. 100 % Vinyl ester resins shall be used for skin out layer and is preferred throughout entire laminate.

4.2. Vinyl ester resin blends with dicyclopentadiene are acceptable with approval of the PM.

4.3. All bonding putty surfaces shall be prepped with a course 24 grit disc or equivalent.

4.4. Methacrylate adhesives are preferred over bonding putties.

5. APPROVED COMPOSITES:

5.1. Wood shall not be used in any portion of the vessel.

5.1.1. Coosa

5.1.2. Extreme Baltek

5.1.3. Air-cell Foam

5.1.4. Penske Board

5.1.5. Klegecell

5.1.6. DIAB H 80 and 100

Additional composites may be used with agency approval.

5.2. Minimum 24lb density shall be used in the following mounting locations:

5.2.1. Transoms

5.2.2. Lifting eyes

5.2.3. Consoles

5.2.4. Leaning posts

5.2.5. Reinforcements

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5.3. Minimum 20lb density should be used for all general hardware mounting locations.

5.4. Flotation shall a minimum of 4lb density injected closed cell foam.

5.5. Hull and interior color shall be haze gray or equivalent (Cook’s No. 953AF137) high flex gel coat.

6. HARDWARE:

6.1. All fasteners shall be 316-stainless steel. The use of 304 may be approved by the PM for certain high load applications. All load bearing hardware should have backing plates and bolted through using suitable bedding compound.

6.2. Lifting eyes or towing U-Bolts for vessels from 20’ to 30’ in length shall be welded 5/8” or greater.

6.3. One Stainless Steel lifting eye/ U-bolt (sized to accommodate winch hook appropriate for 25-27 ft hull), shall be mounted to bow with properly bedded backing plates. This U-bolt will be used for launching, recovering, and securing the boat to the trailer. And two Stainless Steel U-bolts mounted on the transom (sized to accommodate towing of a 25-27 ft vessel), shall be mounted to transom with properly bedded backing plates.

6.4. Vendor shall install six flush mount 6” cleats on the gunwales, one at each forward quarter of the bow, two at each mid-ship side and two on the stern.

6.5. PM should approve vessel manufacturers’ cleat size and layout prior to construction of deck cap.

6.6. All deck hardware shall be 316-stainless steel.

6.7. All through hulls fittings below the waterline shall be stainless or bronze.

7. APPROVED HARDWARE MANUFACTURES:

7.1. Manufacturer should use high-quality hardware such as GEM, South Co., Premier Products, Ltd., Whitecap, King Marine, and Marine Town

7.2. All coated hardware shall be media blasted or acid etched prior to painting or powder coating.

7.3. All stainless fasteners shall be isolated from aluminum with Tef-Gel or phenolic washers.

8. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION:

8.1. The deck and gunnels shall be constructed to allow Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

(FWC) staff to stand upright while leaning on the gunnels.

8.2. All above deck hatches and compartments should drain overboard above the waterline.

8.3. All deck drains should drain overboard above the waterline when fully loaded.

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8.4. All hatches should have bonded gaskets.

8.5. All hatches and compartments shall be constructed with gutter systems to provide dry storage.

8.6. Minimum of #10 stainless fasteners shall be used for the hull to cap joint. Through bolting is required where possible.

8.7. The hull and cap joint shall be mechanically and chemically bonded.

8.8. Mechanical fasteners shall be a minimum of three to five fastener diameters from the edge hull of the hull and cap flange.

8.9. Methacrylate adhesive shall be used to bond the hull to cap flange.

8.10. The deck or liner shall be bonded to the stringers and hull using methacrylate adhesive.

8.11. Hull sides shall be cored with 20lb or greater foam anywhere that mechanical fasteners are used along the hull flange.

8.12. All deck hardware, poling platforms shall be through bolted with backing plates.

8.13. Backing plates shall be composite material such as G-10, 316 stainless or 5086 aluminum. High density composite material may be imbedded in the laminate in areas where hardware will be mounted.

8.14. Deck and console shall be capable of supporting T-top with electronics box.

8.15. Access shall be provided to test, service and replace all deck hardware below to include bilge pumps, bilge switches and through hull fittings.

9. RIGGING TUBES:

9.1. Console to bow shall be 1.5” - two-inch diameter.

9.2. Console to port and starboard gunnels shall be two-inch diameter.

9.3. Console to transom should have two four-inch diameter tubes.

9.4. Console to Trap Hauler Box location on the transom shall be a one- and one-half inch tube with the location approved by the PM

10. CENTER CONSOLE:

10.1. Console should have ample room to flush mount a VHF (very high frequency) radio, and chart plotter behind a removable weatherproof cover. The Console shall accommodate all motor gauges and controls in easy to find and access locations, compass, accessory electronics (Flush Mount 12” MFD, multi-function display, navigation screen and flush mount marine radio), hydraulic steering, and throttle

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 15 of 70 control. Console shall be wide enough to accommodate electronics without crowding and the layout approved by the PM.

10.2. Console shall be lockable to secure electronics while not in use.

10.3. Windshield shall be a minimum of 3/8” thickness plexiglass or acrylic.

10.4. The console should have adequate access to allow service of all console mounted components and replace batteries.

10.5. Console covers shall be medium gray Sunbrella material sewn in markings to quickly reference proper orientation.

10.6. Entire console shall be cored with a minimum of ½” scrimed and scored H-100 composite.

10.7. Consoles shall be mechanically and chemically bonded to the deck.

10.8. Compass shall be a flush mounted white Ritchie Helmsman.

10.9. The compass light shall be wired to an independent on/off switch in the panel.

10.10. Vessel wiring shall be rigged as to minimize compass deviation.

10.11. All enclosures or spray shields shall be 40 gauge pressed and polished vinyl sheet glass.

10.12. Console Location:

10.12.1. Console shall be mounted on the centerline of the vessel and narrow enough such so there is a minimum of 24” between the gunwale cap and the side of the console. (Subject to vendor’s recommendations and PM approval).

10.12.2. Console should have a large access door that allows storage of field gear. Access door shall be no smaller than 600 square inches and have a weatherproof gasket seal, flush mount hinges and locking flush mount hasp.

10.12.3. Console shall be mounted far enough forward to allow a bench seat with back support for the operators to sit or lean against. This bench seat shall be far enough forward so that there is a minimum of 5 feet of open deck with no obstructions between the back of the bench seat and the transom of the vessel. More deck space is preferred however the console should not be moved so far forward that it affects vessel performance or the quality of the ride for occupants.

11. SEATING FOR VESSEL OPERATOR:

11.1. Leaning post seat frame shall be a minimum of 1 ½” outer diameter.

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11.2. If an aluminum frame bench seat is used, it shall have a backrest and it shall be able to accept a 72 qt cooler accessible from the rear and mounted underneath.

11.3. Also acceptable is a closeable and lockable cabinet the width and height of the bench seat. If a cabinet is used the cabinet shall be made of marine grade plastic or fiberglass with non-wood composite and contain storage with shelving.

12. HYDRAULIC STEERING:

12.1. Shall be equipped with Seastar Tournament or Pro series steering.

12.2. All steering hoses shall be Kevlar reinforced or stainless steel.

12.3. All steering components shall be rated at a minimum of 1500 PSI.

12.4. Options shall be provided for power assist steering.

13. STEERING WHEEL:

13.1. The wheel shall be a one-piece anodized aluminum or 316 stainless three spoke wheel with a power knob on either option.

13.2. The wheel should have no sharp edges on the spokes or tooling lines.

14. TRIM TABS:

14.1. Vessels shall be equipped with Bennett, Lenco or Mercury K-Plane trim tabs of model and size recommended by trim tab manufacturer.

15. LIGHTING:

15.1. Cockpit lights should include a minimum of three LED lights under each gunnel to illuminate all walk areas on the deck.

15.2. Console lights should include a minimum of two LED lights to illuminate all areas inside the console.

15.3. Navigation lights shall be LED and positioned to avoid illuminating the deck or interfering with the operator’s vision during night operations.

15.4. Light placement should comply with Navigation Rules.

15.5. Lights shall be manufactured by Hella or Lumitec

16. BILGE SYSTEM:

16.1. Vessels shall be equipped with two bilge pumps.

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16.2. Bilge pumps shall be Rule 1500 GPH (gallons per hour) or greater with heavy duty automatic float switch.

16.3. Bilge pumps shall be wired directly to batteries.

16.4. All bilge pump discharge hoses shall be wire reinforced smooth bore.

16.5. All bilge pump discharge hoses shall be rigged with an anti-siphon loop.

17. RUB RAIL:

17.1. Shall be heavy duty rigid or semi rigid, black rub rail.

17.2. Shall be a Minimum width of 1 7/8”.

17.3. Shall be secured with a minimum of #10 stainless fasteners.

17.4. Fastener spacing shall be a maximum of five inches.

18. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:

18.1. All wire shall be marine grade tinned boat cable.

18.2. All wire connections from 8 gauge down to 20-gauge wire should use epoxy heat shrink connectors.

18.3. All wire connections from 8 gauge up to 00 gauge shall be soldered prior to using heat shrink

18.4. Spade connectors should not be used anywhere in the electrical system.

18.5. Deutsch connectors should not be used below decks or in bilge areas.

18.6. A service loop shall be provided for all serviceable components such as lights, pumps, radios and switch panels. The service loop shall be large enough to allow removal of switch panel from dash to access terminal ends.

18.7. Vessel shall be equipped with two Group 27 marine starting batteries.

18.8. Batteries should meet engine manufacturers requirements.

18.9. A standalone emergency battery parallel switch shall be used between banks.

18.10. Electrical components shall be manufactured by Blue Sea or Cole Hersee.

18.11. All wiring, electrical components and switches shall be labeled for quick trouble shooting and repairs.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 18 of 70

19. FUEL SYSTEM:

19.1. Fuel tanks shall be engineered and manufactured by RDS Manufacturing Inc. for commercial duty service.

19.2. Fuel tanks shall be approved by USCG, ABYC and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).

19.3. Fuel system should comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.

19.4. Fuel tanks shall be coated with coal tar epoxy.

19.5. Fuel tank shall be equipped with stainless Weema fuel level senders.

19.6. Fuel filters shall be Racor fuel water separators with stainless bracket mount.

19.7. Fuel fill hardware shall be 316 stainless.

20. FACTORY PRE-RIG AND ENGINE INSTALLATIONS:

20.1. Vessel manufacturer shall install FWC supplied 2 – 200 hp Yamaha Engines and engine controls, cables and gauges.

20.2. Vessel shall be pre-rigged with FWC supplied Yamaha controls, cables and gauges.

20.3. All other applicable gauges, harnesses and switch panels will be installed and provided by the vendor.

20.4. Vessel shall be pre-rigged for 2 – 200hp Yamaha engines based on agency needs

20.5. UFLEX High Efficiency "Mach Series" cables shall be used for all boats rigged with Yamaha engines that are not specified to have factory electronic controls.

21. UPHOLSTERY:

21.1. The only upholstery in the vessel shall be on the leaning post seat and/or if a seat is in the design fore of the console upholsters shall be present.

21.2. In the remainder of the vessel no upholstery shall be present.

21.3. Closed cell foam shall be used for all upholstery and seating.

21.4. Antimicrobial foam and upholstery products shall be used.

21.5. All materials shall be grey in color.

22. DECK CONFIGURATION:

22.1. The transom shall be full across the beam with its top flush with the top gunnel.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 19 of 70

22.2. Transom strength should accommodate 2 – 200 hp stern mounted Yamaha outboard 4-stroke engines.

22.3. A bow mounted anchor davit for storage and retrieval of anchor with a sealable through- deck hole for rope and chain to pass.

22.4. A closed bow anchor storage compartment constructed of fiberglass over non-wood composite. Bow storage should match the height of the forward gunnels and be large enough to accommodate an appropriate anchor for the vessels size, 200 feet of ½” rope and 6-8 feet of chain.

22.5. Bow deck shall have, below deck storage boxes mounted in the floor forward of the console. These must be self-draining, have flush mounted lids and hinges, flush mounted locking hasps and weatherproof gasket seals to prevent water entry.

22.6. The vessel shall not have any rod holders and not have a bait well.

22.7. The deck must be self-bailing and made from equivalent or same material as hull. A scupper of 1.5 - 2-inch diameter fiberglass tube or PVC shall be positioned at each side just forward of the transom.

22.8. A trap strike plate (approx. 2 feet high by 4-foot length) made of ½ inch starboard, ½ inch pvc board or 1/8” aluminum will be mounted on the starboard hull starting from the stern and proceeding forward.

Location and materials to be approved by PM with manufacturer prior to construction.

22.9. A raw water wash-down pump (Shurflo or a PM approved alternative) and hose capable of reaching all areas of the deck, with plumbing and installation to be located below deck per manufacturers specs.

22.10. The stern deck shall be large enough to allow for vertical access to bilge, bilge pump, washdown seacock and washdown pump.

23. TRAILER: WILL BE PROVIDED BY FWC

23.1. The unit shall comply with all USCG, Motor Vehicle Safety Standards as established by the Department of Transportation, all safety requirements of the latest issues of American National Standards Institute

(ANSI) Standards, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards, and all other

Federal and State of Florida legal requirements and safety requirements.

24. LAY-UP NOTES:

24.1. Due to the nature of the work that the boat will perform (rugged commercial application), the manufacturer is to meet or exceed the specified minimum lay-up as required by standard boatbuilding practice as follows:

24.1.1. Finish coat of at least 20 mils (.5mm) of gelcoat (Haze Gray).

24.1.2. First layer of lay-up must be of 3-ounce mat or equivalent in chopped strand fiberglass.

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 20 of 70

a. Solid fiberglass: Bottom lay-up to consist of at least two (2) layers of 24-ounce woven roving or biaxial cloth lapped a minimum of five inches onto the side lay-up of at least 24-ounce roving or biaxial cloth sandwiched with layers of 1 ½-ounce mat. All stress areas to include additional roving or biaxial cloth to assure structural integrity. Roving or biaxial cloth to lap at chine, transom, and tunnel edges. Chop strand or mat must be used between all layers of roving or biaxial cloth to assure adequate bond.

b. Glass over core material construction. Minimum of 1 ½ ounce cloth or equivalent will cover all surfaces and a second layer of 1 1/2-ounce mat on topside of deck and to sandwich a layer of 24-ounce woven roving on the bottom of the hull.

24.2. All structural or other laminates used in construction of vessel and its components to be of marine grade or equivalent non-degradable core material.

24.3. Hull area under each stringer to be covered with (2) two layers of 24-ounce woven roving strips exceeding width and length of the stringer prior to placing stringers in hull. Mat to be used between all layers of woven roving to assure adequate bond. Tops and sides of stringers must be completely covered with an additional layer of 24-ounce woven roving with a mat or chop under laid to assure adequate bond.

24.4. The deck is required to be completely fiber glassed with at least two layers of 1.5 oz. mat or chopped strand fiberglass material. Foam or core material will need 24-ounce woven roving sandwiched between

1 ½ ounce matt. The surface of the deck must have gel-coat in an off-white color with webbing or another light non-skid surface approved by project manager.

24.5. Gunwale must be boxed or framed with knee braces spaced to ensure sturdy non-flexing sides.

24.6. All decks are required to be fiber glassed to the hull sides in the same manner that stringers are supported and attached as described above.

25. DIMENSION NOTIFICATION:

25.1. Prior to delivery, the vendor will provide vessel and hull dimensions and appropriate information to the

PM. Vendor will contact the Project Manager(s) to agree upon a location of delivery or vessel pick up.

The first vessel must be completed within 8 months of order date and delivered no later than June 30, 2027. Additional vessels will be ordered on an as-needed basis and delivery schedule will be specified in their respective Purchase Orders.

26. MINIMUM VENDOR REQUIREMENTS:

26.1. The Vendor shall be a licensed vessel manufacturer or an authorized dealer of manufactured vessels.

The Vendor shall provide documentation demonstrating that it is a licensed vessel manufacturer or an authorized dealer of manufactured vessels and shall complete Attachment F – Experience Form, providing a list of up to ten (10) vessels manufactured within the past five (5) years. The Vendor shall provide a description of each vessel, including the vessel model, length, and date of manufacture. Failure to provide the required documentation and information may result in the bid being deemed non-

Ch. 287 Invitation to Bid – Revised 07.01.2026 FWC 26/27-17, Page 21 of 70 responsive. The Vendor must also maintain all federally and state-required workers’ compensation insurance and insurance covering damage to the vessel outside of FWC’s control. Any changes proposed by the Vendor to the manufactured or procured vessel shall be subject to approval by the Project

Manager (PM)

27. INSPECTION MEETING:

27.1. The Vendor and Contract Manager(s) will meet after completion of construction to inspect the vessel and ensure it is satisfactory.

27.2. The vendor acknowledges that there is an understanding that the inspection and agreement of satisfaction does not constitute a fulfillment of the Vendor’s full obligation under the contract and can still be liable for any latent, undetected or unseen defects or problems caused by its work.

27.3. If the vessel is found to be unsatisfactory, the Vendor acknowledges its obligation to bring the vessel up to Commission’s satisfaction.

28. PAYMENT SCHEDULE:

28.1. Work to commence…