Maritime Captain

The United States Special Operations Command North (SOCNORTH) is seeking a qualified Maritime Captain to provide navigational services for a training exercise in Prince William Sound, Alaska, scheduled from February 23 through March 10, 2026. The captain must hold a current US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential and possess a minimum Secret security clearance. Key requirements include demonstrated experience operating 70+ foot ocean-going vessels, knowledge of maritime safety regulations, and the ability to work up to 12 hours daily with 24/7 availability during the exercise period. The government has not specified formal evaluation criteria in the pre-solicitation notice, but vendors should anticipate that technical qualifications, security clearance status, and relevant maritime experience will be primary consideration factors. Interested parties must submit responses by January 20, 2026, via email, providing company details, potential contract vehicles, and any clarifying questions regarding the Performance Work Statement requirements.

This opportunity carries no set-aside designation and is open to all qualified contractors. The pre-solicitation notice does not identify any incumbent contractors or provide a specific contract award value, though the NAICS code 488330 (Navigational Services to Shipping) carries a small business size standard of $47 million. The vessel to be operated must be US-flagged, built in 2000 or newer, equipped with multiple engines, capable of cruising at 9 knots, and feature appropriate navigation and accommodation capabilities for the extended mission duration. No specific quantity of services is stated beyond the single four-week operational window, and the government has requested vendors to clarify any questions about the PWS requirements prior to the formal solicitation phase.