19--Charter for the Gulf of Alaska Bottom Trawl Survey

Solicitation 1305M326Q0342 is a request for quotations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for vessel charter services to support the Alaska Fisheries Science Center's biennial bottom trawl survey of groundfish in the Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands. The contract requires the provision of a bottom trawler vessel, an experienced crew, and all necessary labor and equipment to collect fishery-independent data for stock assessments. The scope includes a base requirement of 55 charter days with options for up to 35 additional days. The period of performance begins April 1, 2027, and extends through March 31, 2032, across a base period and four optional extension periods. Additional services include government equipment transportation, moorage, communications, and dockside services. The award will be based on the most advantageous offer, where non-price factors are weighted more heavily than price. Evaluation factors include vessel characteristics and suitability, the experience of the vessel, captain, and crew within the specific operating area, and past performance on similar contracts within the last three to five years. Technical proposals are limited to 20 pages and must be submitted separately from the business and price quotes by August 28, 2026. The vessel must pass a U.S. Coast Guard safety examination, and the contractor is responsible for adhering to strict hazardous materials handling and labeling standards. Payment is processed through the IPP system, with specific reimbursable line items requiring receipts.