Lower Keys Underwater Marine Debris Removal: Dive Liveaboard

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is pursuing a sole-source acquisition for marine debris removal services in the Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas, and Everglades National Parks under solicitation number FWC SS 26/27-03, with a response deadline of August 18, 2026. This procurement is justified under Florida Statutes Sections 120.57(3) and 287.057(3) due to the unique and irreplaceable capabilities of Makai, Inc., which holds the exclusive National Park Service Commercial Use Authorization required to operate in federally protected marine jurisdictions. Only a handful of entities possess this authorization, and Makai, Inc. is the sole vendor with a USCG-certified liveaboard vessel capable of supporting multi-day, 4-to-6-day diving expeditions for up to ten personnel, equipped with SCUBA and NITROX air compressors, a tender vessel, and onboard winch systems for marine debris retrieval using “Dumpster in a Bag” units. The contract period spans from the issuance of the purchase order until July 28, 2028, with performance involving one to three seasonal cruises annually, contingent upon weather and operational conditions. The vendor must demonstrate possession of a valid USCG Master Captain’s license with at least three years of experience, current NPS CUA permits covering all required operational areas, and the ability to provide full logistical support including accommodations, transportation, dive equipment, and debris handling. No competitive evaluation process is applicable; selection is based solely on compliance with mandatory regulatory and technical requirements rather than price or comparative performance. The estimated contract value is $200,000, covering the two-year period with no defined CLINs or pricing structure. Inspection and acceptance occur at offshore field sites during operations and at approved upland disposal facilities upon return. The primary point of contact is Rachel Massey of the Marine Debris Program, with submissions required via email by the specified deadline. All prospective vendors must affirm their capability to meet the stringent operational, permitting, and safety standards, and the selected contractor must comply with Chapter 287, F.S., and all other applicable state and federal regulations governing responsible performance.