RFP 103B-18 Water Transportation Services - Route F4

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is seeking proposals for water transportation services on Route F4, which provides passenger ferry service between Long Wharf in Boston and the Charlestown Navy Yard. The MBTA is requesting proposals for providing and maintaining the ferry vessels, operating the scheduled service, performing ticketing and fare collection, and maintaining the related facilities. The RFP specifies minimum vessel capacity, performance, and accessibility requirements. Proposals are due on August 27, 2018, and the contract term is for a base period of 55 months starting on November 1, 2018, with up to five one-year extension options. The MBTA will compensate the contractor through a fixed cost per trip model, with reimbursement for fuel costs, while retaining all fare revenue.

The RFP includes Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation requirements. Prospective bidders must demonstrate relevant experience, financial capacity, and submit detailed management, operations, and marketing plans. The MBTA is also posting separate RFPs for Routes F1 and F2H, and bidders may choose to bid on individual routes or multiple routes. The MBTA's goal is to obtain the most competitive pricing and operational efficiencies through this procurement. The contract value and budget range are not provided in the documents.