IFB Dry Dock Ferry Maintenance and Repair Services in Solano County

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is requesting bids on dry dock ferry maintenance and repair services for the Real McCoy II, a 95-gross-ton car ferry on Solano Route 84, with bids due October 29, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. A 5% small business preference applies to certified small businesses, micro-businesses, or small businesses for public works; non-small businesses are eligible if they subcontract at least 25% of the net bid price to certified small businesses.

Bidders must possess a minimum of five years' experience in the dry-docking industry, documented via an Experience Letter and Certification (Attachment 2); overlapping dates count only once. All welders performing work on the hull, vehicle aprons, or deck structure must hold current American Bureau of Shipping certification prior to start of work.

The scope includes engine replacement for Tier 4 California Air Resources Board compliance, hydraulic and electrical system repairs and upgrades, structural repairs, hull inspection and plate replacement, propeller service, vessel stability checks, pilot house and deck hand room upgrades with HVAC replacement, lighting modernization, interior and exterior painting, and anti-corrosion work. The contractor must also ensure United States Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection compliance and prepare associated documentation and plans. The contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, supplies, tools, parts, equipment, towing/transportation, disposal, and incidentals.

The estimated contract term runs from November 30, 2026 through July 31, 2027, with work to be completed within 45 calendar days from start date. Late fees of $4,200 per day apply for delays, capped at 25% of the agreement subtotal. Early completion incentives of up to 10% of the agreement subtotal apply if work finishes in less than 45 days. A bid bond is required for bids of $484,000 or greater, and a payment bond of 100% of the total contract amount is required if the bid exceeds $25,000. A Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise incentive program applies with a dollar cap of $100,000 for combined incentives and preferences. Questions are due October 22, 2026. The estimated award date is November 5, 2026.