Marine Services to Support the Maintenance of the National Data Buoy Center Ocean Observation System of Systems

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is soliciting marine services to support the maintenance of the National Data Buoy Center's Ocean Observation System of Systems through multiple Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity contracts. The procurement requires Global Class vessels capable of servicing three primary buoy networks - Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunamis (DART), Weather and Ocean Platform (WxOP), and Tropical Atmosphere-Ocean (TAO) buoys - across the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of America, and Pacific Ocean. Vessels must meet extensive technical specifications including a minimum range of 6,200 nautical miles, 35-day endurance, a working deck of at least 2,700 square feet, and crane capabilities to lift 10,000-pound loads. Proposals will be evaluated on three factors: Vessel Characteristics and Capabilities (pass/fail), Past Performance (confidence ratings), and Price, with technical acceptability requiring a pass rating for vessel capabilities and neutral or better rating for past performance. The solicitation includes a past performance information form due by 10:00 AM ET on June 12, 2025, with final proposals due by 2:00 PM ET on June 23, 2025.

This opportunity is designated as a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 483111 (Deep Sea Freight Transportation) with a size standard of 1,050 employees. The government anticipates awarding approximately three IDIQ contracts with a total combined value of $49,990,822.79 to be shared among contract holders, with individual contract values estimated at $15,534,531.38 each and a minimum guarantee of $5,000 per contract. The contracts will span five one-year ordering periods from December 4, 2025, through December 3, 2030, with each period consisting of an estimated 330 days at sea and 44 days of mobilization. Primary ports of embarkation will include San Diego, California for Pacific Task Orders and Gulfport, Mississippi for Atlantic Task Orders, though the place of performance is listed as John C. Stennis Space Center, Mississippi. The government reserves the right to award contracts without discussions but may conduct clarifications or discussions if deemed necessary.