N0017326Q5311 - charter boat support

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), operating under the Department of the Navy's Office of Naval Research, is seeking charter boat support services for oceanographic research operations through solicitation N0017326Q5311. The procurement is for a commercial item under a firm-fixed-price basis using the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable evaluation methodology, meaning award will be made to the lowest-priced offeror meeting all technical requirements without discussions or negotiations. Key contract requirements include a chartered vessel capable of supporting daily 12-hour oceanographic operations with a minimum 18-day deployment (plus 4 weather/rest days) between May 15, 2026, and June 5, 2026, in the Nassau/Autec, Bahamas area. The vessel must safely transport two Iver-3 underwater vehicles, two drifters, three underwater targets, and associated scientific equipment, with a maximum 2-3 hour transit time from Nassau port. Desirable features include Starlink, VHF, and UHF communication systems, and a motorized swim platform for instrument deployment and recovery. Quotations must be submitted via email to Purchasing Agent Kayrelly Aguirre-Arroba by the April 3, 2026 deadline, and offerors must maintain active SAM.gov registration with current FAR and DFARS representations and certifications.

This solicitation includes no set-aside designations and is open to full and open competition with no identified incumbent contractors. No specific award value or budget range is disclosed in the solicitation notice. The charter vessel support is required for a 22-23 day operational period during the specified May-June 2026 timeframe, with the vessel departing and returning to the same Nassau port daily. Place of performance is Washington, DC 20375, with delivery to NRL's facility located at 4555 Overlook Avenue, SW, Building 49, using FOB Destination as the preferred delivery method. The procurement applies NAICS code 483112 (Deep Sea Passenger Transportation) and PSC code V224 (Passenger Marine Charter), with FAR provisions effective through FAC 2024-03.