AK-DIV of MB-nrdar-vessel charter in PWS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is soliciting a vessel charter for marine bird surveys in Prince William Sound, Alaska, through Request for Quotation (RFQ) 140FNR25Q0020. The agency requires a U.S. Coast Guard-certified oceanographic research vessel at least 58 feet long, capable of supporting nine USFWS passengers and three 25-foot Boston Whalers for a maritime research mission. The vessel must be equipped with specific safety gear including radar, GPS, and immersion suits, and capable of cruising at 6 knots. Contractors must provide all necessary equipment, fuel (1,000 gallons of unleaded gasoline), meals, and lodging for the research team. Quotations are due by June 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM EST, with technical points of contact being Robert Kaler and Elizabeth Labunski who can provide additional details about the solicitation requirements.

The contract is set aside for total small business participation under NAICS category 483112 (Deep Sea Passenger Transportation), with a performance period from July 10-19, 2025. The vessel will support marine bird surveys in the coastal areas of southwest and eastern Prince William Sound, requiring accommodations with sufficient bunks and a heated drying area. The solicitation specifies a firm-fixed price contract structure, with delivery to the FWS Division of Migratory Birds in Anchorage, Alaska. While specific award value is not explicitly stated, the contract covers a 10-day maritime research mission requiring comprehensive vessel, equipment, and support services. The place of performance is Prince William Sound, Alaska, with all operations and logistics centered around supporting the USFWS marine bird research objectives during the specified timeframe.