Description
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is seeking a single‑source vendor to provide a live‑aboard research vessel to support multi‑day SCUBA‑based marine research and monitoring throughout the Florida Keys, Marquesas, and Dry Tortugas. The contract will cover up to 50 days of vessel time, with missions ranging from 5‑11 consecutive days, providing overnight accommodations for at least 10 scientists, dive platforms, Nitrox capabilities, winch, satellite internet, meals, and full safety equipment. The only qualified vendor is Makai, Inc., which holds the required National Park Service Commercial Use Authorization for operations in Dry Tortugas National Park.
• Live‑aboard vessel (≥80 ft LOA) with USCG Master‑captain and CUA authorization
• Supports SCUBA research, equipment deployment, tagging, sample collection, and data transmission
• Provides berthing for 10 scientists, three meals/day, medical supplies, AED, and satellite internet
• Required contract term through 07/28/2028; total estimated value $350,000
• Submission of vendor capability information due 09/23/2026 (6 PM ET)