Lower Keys Underwater Marine Debris Removal: Dive Liveaboard

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is seeking a single vendor to provide live-aboard vessel services for the removal of underwater marine debris in the Lower Keys, Everglades, and Dry Tortugas National Parks. This is a sole-source procurement justified by the unique capabilities required to support extended offshore scientific diving operations, including the transport and accommodation of up to ten divers, deployment of specialized equipment such as SCUBA and NITROX air compressors, on-board winch systems, tender vessels for shallow-water operations, and the ability to handle marine debris collection using “Dumpster in a Bag” systems. Only Makai, Inc. currently holds the necessary National Park Service Commercial Use Authorization for operations in Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks and operates a USCG-certified live-aboard vessel meeting the full scope of operational and safety requirements, making it the only qualified provider. The contract period extends through July 28, 2028, with the expectation of one to three annual cruises lasting four to six days each, scheduled based on seasonal conditions and weather availability. All costs including crew, provisions, transportation, and equipment are to be borne by the contractor, with performance occurring entirely at sea approximately 20 to 70 miles offshore from Key West, Florida. The estimated total contract value is $200,000, with no formal line-item pricing or CLIN structure provided, and no competitive bidding process is being conducted. Vendors seeking to respond must submit written documentation by August 18, 2026, demonstrating their capacity to meet all operational standards, including possession of a valid USCG Master Captain’s license with at least three years of commercial experience, current NPS CUA, and access to an approved facility for debris disposal. The selected contractor must guarantee full compliance with Chapter 287, Florida Statutes, and all applicable state and federal regulations, and demonstrate integrity and reliability in executing the mission-critical environmental remediation work. All submissions must be emailed to Rachel Massey at [email hidden] by the stated deadline.