Vessel and ROV Services- Blake Plateau

The Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), through the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), is seeking vessel and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) services to support a scientific investigation of the Blake Plateau. The contractor will collaborate closely with government scientists to conduct marine survey operations within a 20 km x 20 km area, collecting targeted geological and biological samples from both disturbed and control areas. Key requirements include providing ROV equipment with at least one 7-function manipulator, laboratory capabilities for sample processing with various temperature-controlled storage options (-80°C, -20°C, and refrigerated), and 24-hour ship operations during the 11-day on-site period. The contractor must collect 10-12 biological samples and 5-10 rock or nodule samples per ROV dive, with specific deliverables including collaborative development of a draft and final survey plan due at least 30 days prior to field operations. The solicitation deadline for quotes is August 31, 2025, with questions previously extended to August 8, 2025, and quotes to be submitted electronically to Jennifer.Moreci@bsee.gov.

This procurement is issued on an unrestricted basis with no set-aside designation and falls under NAICS code 334511 with a small business size standard of 1,350 employees. The government estimates the contract value between $550,000 and $600,000, to be awarded as a Time-and-Materials contract with fixed hourly rates inclusive of wages, overhead, and profit. The period of performance spans from December 8, 2025, to December 8, 2026, with the critical 11-day ROV operation phase requiring continuous operations. The work will be conducted on the Blake Plateau in offshore waters, with the contractor expected to provide fuel cost documentation for reimbursement and maintain communication capabilities for coordination with shore-based personnel. Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the acquisition is being conducted under FAR Part 13.5 Simplified Acquisition Procedures for Commercial Items.