Derelict Vessel Removal, Transport, and Disposal - 33' Southern Cross

Escambia County Marine Resources Division is requesting price quotes for removal, transport, and disposal of the derelict 33-foot vessel Southern Cross, with quotes due September 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. via OpenGov Procurement portal. The project is funded through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Opportunity.

The scope encompasses floating, removal, transport to the Perdido Landfill, and all tipping fees. Work must begin within 7 calendar days of Notice to Proceed and be completed within 14 calendar days; adverse weather allows written extension requests. The contractor bears all costs including fuel tank and holding tank pumping by licensed operators, hazardous material removal and disposal, photo-documentation of all phases, and landfill tipping fees. The vessel is a white Southern Cross registration 683481, located at Mackey Cove (approximately 30°32.5266' N, 87°11.2566' W, FWC Case Number FWC26ON0075177); bidders must verify actual dimensions and conditions before submitting.

Contractor responsibilities include compliance with extensive Best Management Practices covering environmental protection, turbidity control, protection of manatees and sea turtles, contaminant removal, and hazardous materials handling. Contractors must provide Sunbiz registration proof, W-9 form, and a letter from their insurance carrier confirming capability to obtain required coverage. Insurance requirements include general liability minimum $1 million per occurrence / $2 million aggregate, auto liability $1 million per accident, workers' compensation with statutory limits, and for waterfront work: protection and indemnity marine liability, United States Longshoremen and Harbor Workers Act / Jones Act liability, and marine pollution liability, each at $1 million per occurrence / $2 million aggregate, from carriers with minimum AM Best Rating VIII. Insurance carriers must hold minimum "A" rating preferred. Escambia County must be named additional insured except on workers' compensation and professional liability.

Pricing is submitted as a single lump-sum total for all services. No salvage is permitted. Questions were due September 21, 2026. Escambia County will provide authorization documentation, ensure insurance compliance, and provide on-site oversight.