Vessel Charter and Marine Operations

A full-service vessel charter is being sought to support NOAA research diving operations in the Dry Tortugas, Florida, requiring a licensed crew and comprehensive marine services to ensure safe, compliant, and logistically sound execution of underwater scientific missions. The contract encompasses all necessary vessel operations including crewing, equipment transport, dive support, safety protocols, regulatory adherence, and on-site logistical coordination tailored to the unique environmental and operational demands of the Dry Tortugas site. The solicitation is classified as a subcontract under a total small business set-aside, exclusively available to small businesses as defined by the SBA, with the NAICS code 483114 indicating inland water transportation. The opportunity was posted on April 27, 2026, with responses due by May 5, 2026, at 9:00 PM Eastern Time. The contract is administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under the U.S. Department of Commerce, and all performance must occur within the designated operational area in the Dry Tortugas, Florida. The successful vendor must demonstrate proven capability in supporting scientific diving efforts, maintaining federal compliance standards, and ensuring the highest levels of marine safety and operational reliability.