Layberthing Services for Long-Term Safe Lay Berth for Ro/Ro CAPE R Vessels on the US East Coast

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is soliciting proposals for exclusive long-term lay berthing services for up to two CAPE R class Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro/Ro) vessels on the U.S. East Coast under solicitation number 693JF726R000005. Contractors must provide safe berthing accommodations including facility maintenance, casualty and liability insurance, and personnel/equipment support, with separately-priced connect/disconnect services and reimbursable utilities. Key technical requirements include submission of a heavy weather mooring plan compliant with UFC 4-159-03 standards for 130 mph sustained winds, recent multi-beam echo soundings or a credible dredging plan meeting minimum water depth specifications, a pier apron with 425 pounds per square foot load capacity, parking for 20+ automobiles per vessel, and resilient fendering. The government will award to the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) offeror without discussions, though discussions may be conducted if necessary. Questions and answers submissions were due on March 16, 2026, and proposals must be submitted electronically via email to Contracting Officer Henry Puppe (henry.puppe@dot.gov) by April 1, 2026.

This solicitation has no set-aside designation and does not identify any incumbent contractors. The contract structure is an Indefinite-Delivery/Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) fixed-price with cost-reimbursement hybrid arrangement, with contractors able to propose either a 5-year or 10-year contract period for government selection at the time of award. The contract period of performance extends from April 16, 2026 through April 15, 2036, with a potential alternative end date of April 15, 2031. Performance will take place on the U.S. East Coast, and the contractor must satisfy extensive infrastructure and service requirements including three ship repair facilities within 30 driving miles, 24/7 pilots and tugs arriving within 120 minutes, comprehensive insurance coverage including $5 million policies for Employer's Liability, Wharfingers Liability, General Liability, and Pollution Liability, and extensive security infrastructure including 24/7 bonded security guards with TWIC credentials and closed-circuit television systems with 15-day recording retention.