Charter for the Gulf of Alaska Bottom Trawl Survey

The Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration seeks a small business contractor to provide a U.S. flagged commercial vessel, qualified crew, and associated services to support the Biennial Bottom Trawl Survey of Alaska Groundfish in the Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands. This combined set-aside contract, under NAICS 483114, requires a seaworthy vessel capable of scientific data collection and research support in compliance with USCG 46 CFR Part 28 safety standards. The performance period consists of a base year from April 1, 2027, to March 31, 2028, with four subsequent one-year option periods extending through March 31, 2032. The scope includes 55 charter days for the base period and various optional charter days, with reimbursable ceilings for fuel and dockside services. Award will be determined via a trade-off process based on best value rather than lowest price. Evaluation factors are equally weighted across vessel characteristics, the experience of the vessel and crew, and past performance, with these non-price factors carrying more weight than the price quote. Contractors must submit separate technical and business quotes, with the technical volume limited to 20 pages. All payment requests must be processed electronically through the Invoice Processing Platform. Inspection and acceptance of services will occur aboard the vessel during operations, overseen by the Contracting Officer or a designated Representative.