Opt 1 Exercise of KINGS BAY/MAYPORT HARBOR SUPPORT TUGS
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) is conducting a Sources Sought (RFI) to gather information on potential contractors capable of providing seven (7) U.S. Flagged, Jones Act compliant tractor-like harbor support tugs for Sub Base Kings Bay, GA, and Naval Station Mayport, FL. This RFI aims to determine the government's best interest in exercising an option under an existing contract. Responses are due by May 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM EDT.
Purpose & Scope
MSC is seeking market information for the operation of seven (7) tractor-like tugs to support Navy Region Southeast. The services will primarily be performed in Sub Base Kings Bay, GA, Naval Station Mayport, FL, and surrounding navigable waters out to the continental shelf. Tugs must be capable of supporting various berthing and vessel movements, always remaining afloat except where customary and safe to work aground.
Key Requirements
- Vessel Type: Seven (7) U.S. Flagged, Jones Act compliant tractor-like tugs.
- Operational Area: Navy Region Southeast, specifically Kings Bay, GA, and Mayport, FL.
- Tug Specifications:
- 360-degree propulsion.
- Bollard Pull: 100,000 lbs. (forward/stern), 80,000 lbs. (side).
- Endurance: 7 days; Operating Range: 100 NM.
- Capacity: 16 passengers.
- Speed: 12 knots transit.
- Draft: Max 18 ft for 4 tugs, max 25 ft for 3 tugs.
- Features: Non-marking fendering, brow for passenger transfer, boom for material transfer, sufficient lines, firefighting capabilities (3,000 GPM pump, 360-degree monitors), capstans/winches, and required communication equipment.
Contract Details
- Anticipated Contract Style: Firm Fixed Price with Reimbursables.
- Period of Performance: July 1, 2026, to May 31, 2030, including a one-year base period and three one-year options (one 365-day, one 335-day).
Submission Requirements
Interested parties should provide:
- Company name, CAGE code, UEI, Point of Contact, and contact details.
- Confirmation of financial capability and company history.
- Detailed descriptions of proposed vessels (names, flag, speed, range, dimensions, certifications, maneuverability, station keeping).
- Vessel specification sheets with pictures and USCG documentation.
- Vessel availability.
- Estimated first-hour and hourly rates.
- Small business standing.
Eligibility & Set-Aside
- Eligibility: Vessels must be U.S. Flagged and Jones Act Compliant.
- Set-Aside: None specified. The small business size standard for NAICS code 488330 (Marine Charter For Things) is $47.0 million.
Response Deadline
Responses must be submitted via email no later than 1:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time on May 29, 2026.
Contact Information
For submissions and inquiries, contact Ashley M. Smith-Sallinger at ashley.m.smith357.civ@us.navy.mil and Stephanie Ricker at stephanie.ricker.civ@us.navy.mil. Ashley Smith can also be reached at (564) 226-7556.