FD26-284 NMFS Southeast Fisheries Science Center c

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is soliciting vessel charter services to support the National Coral Reef Monitoring Program (NCRMP) in the Florida Keys through solicitation number 1333MF26Q0024. The contractor must provide a live-aboard research dive vessel capable of supporting up to 10 divers for continuous operations in shallow reef environments (5-15 feet depth), along with all necessary personnel including a U.S. Coast Guard-certified captain with at least two years of live-boat experience, a NOAA-certified Divemaster, and experienced crew. The vessel must supply meals (at least three per day with two hot meals prepared on-site), berthing accommodations, nitrox air for SCUBA tank fills, dive safety equipment compliant with Coast Guard requirements, medical supplies including an AED, and wireless network connectivity. Evaluation will prioritize Technical Approach and Capability (most significant factor), followed by Experience and Price. Quotations must be submitted by May 8, 2026, with written questions due no later than three days before the RFQ close date.

This is a total small business set-aside (NAICS 483114 with a 550-employee threshold) being awarded on a firm-fixed-price, all-or-none basis with Net 30 payment terms. The contract requires 17 survey days plus 2 transit days per cruise, with operations scheduled between May 22 and December 31, 2026, subject to weather and scheduling constraints. Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and FedConnect, provide their UEID/CAGE code, and submit Merchant Mariner Credentials for the Master and additional operator, along with documentation proving the vessel meets all U.S. Coast Guard requirements. Performance will take place aboard the vessel and at ports in the Florida Keys, extending from Key West to Key Biscayne. The Government reserves the right not to award based on quote quality and fund availability.