Passenger Ferry Engine Re-Power

The State of Vermont is soliciting proposals for the re-powering of the MV Island Runner, a 56-foot aluminum passenger ferry operating between Kill Kare State Park and Burton Island State Park in Saint Albans Bay. The project requires the removal of the ferry’s two existing 3208 Marine Cat diesel engines and installation of new engines that match the original horsepower and are compatible with the current Hamilton HJ292 Jet drives and navigation controls. The contractor is also responsible for ensuring all work aligns with space limitations in the engine room, conducting sea trials in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and providing basic maintenance and operational training for crew members. Work on the vessel will be performed at Shelburne Shipyard in Vermont, with a five-month performance period starting December 1, 2025, and concluding by May 1, 2026. Prospective bidders must fulfill several requirements, including registration with the Vermont Secretary of State, securing a Contractor’s Business Account Number from the Vermont Department of Taxes, adhering to worker classification compliance if the bid exceeds $250,000, and submitting a Certificate of Compliance with their proposal. The contract opportunity targets a budget estimated between $150,000 and $300,000, and all vessel modifications necessitated by the engine replacement must be completed within the designated project timeline.