M--Moorage - Port Call Suva Fiji

Quick Summary

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Office of Marine & Aviation Operations, is soliciting proposals for Port and Harbor operational support (Husbanding Services) for the NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer during an anticipated port call in Suva, Fiji, from September 16-23, 2026. This is a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ) for a Firm Fixed-Price contract. Quotes are due March 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST.

Scope of Work

The requirement includes a comprehensive range of services to support the vessel's port call. Key services include:

• Port Agent services to act as a liaison and single point of contact.
• Provision of Pier Space/Dockage (300ft with minimum 25ft depth) capable of supporting public access.
• Arrangement of Pilot services for inbound and outbound transit, with an optional Tug boat if required.
• Provision of at least two Line Handlers for arrival and departure.
• Optional Shore Power connection (400 AMP / 480 VOLTS, two NATO).
• Five Disposable International Cellphones for crew use.
• Ground Transportation (one 5-passenger sedan, two 7-passenger vans daily) with fuel.
• Forklift services (forklift and operator) as needed.
• Food Stores Procurement and Delivery (produce, dairy, frozen, meats, dry goods).
• Vessels Agent Services including Customs and Immigration Support, acknowledging Sovereign Immunity.
• Security Guard/Watch Stander (24-hour) if the pier lacks controlled access.
• Additional support such as mooring lines, small boat transfer, and optional shore crane services.

Contract Details

This opportunity is issued as an unrestricted full and open competition. The associated NAICS code is 488310 (Other Port Services) with a size standard of $47.0 Million. The Government intends to award a Firm Fixed-Price purchase order, potentially single or multiple, on an "all or some" basis, with Net 30 payment terms. The contract administration will utilize the FedConnect® web portal, requiring contractor registration. The start date is an estimate, subject to funding approval, which may lead to a shortened base year or a request for an updated quote.

Evaluation Criteria

Award will be based on Best Value to the Government, considering price and other factors. The Non-Price Technical Solution (Technical Approach and Past Performance) is significantly more important than price. However, as non-price factors become more equal, price gains importance. The Government may award to other than the lowest-priced or highest technically rated offeror if it results in the best value. Evaluation factors include:

1. Technical Approach and Capability: Assessment of the offeror's understanding, approach, and ability to perform the SOW, including detailed experience, subcontract details, on-site point of contact, and an itemized quote.
2. Past Performance: At least two references for similar and relevant services within the past two years. Offerors must complete blocks 1-4 of the Past Performance Questionnaire and have references email it directly to the Contracting Specialist by the closing date.
3. Price: Evaluation for completeness and reasonableness, ensuring compatibility with the Non-Price Technical Solution.
4. Guarantee Pier Space for the entire port visit, ensuring the vessel is not forced to anchor out.

Submission Requirements & Deadlines

Quotes are due by March 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST/EDT. Questions regarding this solicitation must be submitted in writing via email to Christopher.baker@noaa.gov by February 23, 2026, at 12:00 PM EST/EDT. Offerors must submit quotations in PDF or Microsoft Word format electronically to Christopher.baker@noaa.gov, including the Requisition number in the subject line. Key requirements include:

• Active SAM.gov registration (provide UEID/CAGE CODE and Page 1 of registration).
• Acknowledgement of any solicitation amendments (SF-30).
• Copy of Liability Insurance.
• At least two references for similar jobs performed within the past three years.
• Detailed itemized quotes addressing all services.
• It is the contractor's responsibility to request and receive confirmation of quote receipt.