V--VESSEL CHARTER SERVICE

The document is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) 140G0326Q0094 issued by the USGS OAG Sacramento Acquisition Branch for a vessel charter. This acquisition is set aside for small business concerns and is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items. The main purpose is to obtain proposals for vessel charter services, including vessel mobilization/demobilization, vessel lease, fuel, and wire for coring. The NAICS code is 483113 (Coastal and Great Lakes Freight Transportation) with a size standard of 800. Offers are due by May 12, 2026, at 1500 PST, and must be submitted electronically. The award will be based on the tradeoff method. Key requirements for submission include a signed SF 1449, a firm-fixed-price quote for 7 to 10 working days, a technical submission detailing qualifications, listings of prior relevant contracts with references, and System for Award Management (SAM) UEI. Questions regarding the solicitation are due by May 4, 2026, at 1500 PST. The period of performance is from September 1, 2026, to October 31, 2027. Attached documents include a Statement of Work and Clauses and Provisions.

This government file, RFP 140G0326Q0094, outlines the U.S. Geological Survey's requirement for a research vessel to collect long sediment cores and sub-bottom seismic data off the coast of southern and central California. The operational window is between September 1st and October 31st, 2026, for 7 to 10 days at sea, plus transit. The vessel must be at least 150 feet long, U.S. Coast Guard licensed, accommodate up to 12 personnel for 24-hour operations, and provide meals. Key vessel requirements include specific A-frame, winch, wire, and deck space for JPC and Vibra-Corer operations, seismic tow accommodation, and storage for core samples. The captain must have four years of Pacific experience. Evaluation factors prioritize technical capability, experience (especially with federal agencies), and past performance over price. Contractors must provide proof of liability insurance and adhere to electronic invoicing via IPP. The document also includes various federal acquisition clauses and provisions regarding small business programs, labor laws, and sustainable products.

This amendment to solicitation 140G0326Q0094 for a vessel charter addresses submitted questions and extends the Request for Quote (RFQ) due date to May 18, 2026, at 1500 PST. No further questions will be accepted. Contractors must acknowledge receipt of this amendment by completing items 8 and 15, returning copies, acknowledging on each offer copy, or sending a separate communication referencing the solicitation and amendment numbers. Failure to acknowledge receipt by the specified date may lead to rejection of the offer. Changes to previously submitted offers are permitted via letter or electronic communication, provided they reference the solicitation and amendment and are received before the opening date. The period of performance for the vessel charter is from September 1, 2026, to October 31, 2027. This document, a Standard Form 30, also outlines procedures for contract modifications and administrative changes.

This government file, Amendment 01 to RFP 140G0326Q0094, details requirements for a vessel to collect sediment cores and seismic data offshore Southern and Central California. The project involves 9 operational days and 3 transit days, with a preferred window of September 1st, 2026, to October 31st, 2026, though the period of performance extends to October 31st, 2027. Key requirements include a vessel at least 150 feet long with accommodation for 12 scientific personnel, 24-hour operations, and specific equipment such as an A-frame (15 ft vertical, 12 ft horizontal clearance, 12-ton SWL), a 12-ton SWL winch, and an onboard crane. The USGS will provide coring equipment and the Chirp fish, while the contractor is responsible for overboarding equipment, wire, and power. Mobilization and demobilization are preferred in San Diego. Pricing should be submitted for operational, transit, and M/D days, with fuel as a lump sum. Evaluation prioritizes technical capability, experience, and past performance (as a prime contractor) significantly more than price.