New SeaArk Vessel, Engine, and Trailer

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is issuing an Invitation to Bid (ITB) for the procurement of a new SeaArk vessel, engine, and trailer to support crocodilian fieldwork and research activities in Leon County. The deliverable is a fully rigged, turnkey-ready 2026 SeaArk Shadow 20 J CC E outboard vessel equipped with a new Yamaha F115LB 4-stroke engine (2023 or newer) and an aluminum single-axle trailer meeting quality standards equivalent to Road King or Magic Tilt trailers. The vessel must be constructed with marine-grade corrosion-resistant materials and include comprehensive navigation and safety systems ready for immediate deployment. All components must be brand new and factory-installed with manufacturer warranties and documentation provided at delivery. Bidders must submit sealed bids by February 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM ET to the FWC Purchasing office in Tallahassee, with a public bid opening held on the same date and time available in person or via teleconference. Questions must be submitted by February 10, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET, with responses posted February 13, 2026. The anticipated award date is February 24, 2026, and the preferred completion date is April 1, 2026, to support the anticipated survey season from May 26 to August 26, 2026. Award will be made to the responsive, responsible bidder submitting the lowest total price, and bidders must provide a minimum of three verifiable references for similar completed projects with the bid submission.

Bidders must be registered in MyFloridaMarketPlace (MFMP) and, where applicable, the SunBiz system prior to bid opening. The bid price shall be all-inclusive and shall not contain federal or state sales or use taxes, as the State of Florida is exempt from taxation on state purchases. The contractor assumes full responsibility for delivery, including all transportation costs and damage liability until F.O.B. destination, and must replace defective or damaged goods within 30 days of notification. Compliance requirements include E-Verify enrollment, workers' compensation insurance, general liability insurance, and various certifications regarding vendor eligibility and ethical business practices in accordance with Florida and federal laws. Subcontracting is permitted with submission of a List of Subcontractors and Subcontractor Minority Status Report with each invoice. The contract term is one year from issuance of the Purchase Order, with provisions for extension requests if circumstances beyond the contractor's control warrant delays. No specific award value or budget range was disclosed in the available procurement documentation.