Commercial and For-Hire Vessel Support Services to aid in research.

The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is requesting responses to establish a qualified vendor list of commercial and for-hire fishing vessels to support year-round research and monitoring in Commonwealth coastal waters, with a response deadline of September 1, 2029 at 12:00 PM via COMMBUYS. The Small Business Purchasing Program (SBPP) preference applies; vendors meeting SBPP criteria (Massachusetts principal place of business, at least one year in operation, 50 or fewer full-time equivalent employees, and gross revenues not exceeding $15 million on a three-year average) receive award preference where best value is met. The contract is otherwise open to all businesses.

The scope requires commercial and for-hire fishing vessels with Coast Guard-licensed captains to provide field research support services. Vendors must demonstrate vessel specifications including length overall, engine type and horsepower, net reels (for trawlers), and life raft capacity; maintain compliance with state and federal fishery regulations; supply qualified crews; provide fuel and consumables; accommodate researchers; and maintain fishing equipment. Available vessel features must be identified, including 120 VAC power, covered scientific equipment space, A-frame equipment, current Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Decals, and live well capability with adequate deck space and hose connections.

The contract carries an initial three-year term from execution through September 1, 2029, with two additional three-year renewal options available (nine-year maximum duration). Pricing is variable and determined prior to individual trips, potentially structured as trip rates, day rates, dockside rates, fuel costs, additional insurance costs, or division of catch sales; no minimum work volume is guaranteed. The Commonwealth processes payments within 45 days from invoice receipt and offers prompt payment discounts. Multiple contractors will be awarded based on best value criteria. Successful bidder notification is estimated within two weeks of the bid opening date. The Department of Fish and Game is authorized as an additional contract user. The Supplier Diversity Program applies if estimated annual contract value averages $250,000 or more, requiring a minimum one percent certified partner spending commitment.