Hawaii eProcurement Portal #B27000268

Research Vessel Services for UAV-Based Survey at Ka'ula Islet, Kauai

This opportunity is for vessel services supporting UAV-based scientific research at Ka'ula Islet, Kauai, managed by the Department of Land & Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW). - Government Buyer: - State of Hawaii, Department of Land & Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, Kauai Branch - Scope of Services: - Provide a stable research vessel for at least two trips to Ka'ula Islet - Transport 6-7 research staff and scientific equipment round-trip from Kauai - Support UAV-based visual and mapping surveys, deployment/retrieval of scientific equipment, and invertebrate collection - Vessel operations at the site for 3-4 days per trip, with 12-hour working days - Vessel Requirements: - Minimum deck space of 10x15 ft, power generation (120/240v), loading crane arm, and elevated area for UAV spotting - Ability to support simultaneous operation of two UAV platforms - Up-to-date hull, ballast water, and rat inspections - Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) and long-range communications - U.S. Coast Guard safety compliance and ability to acquire marine permits - Mandatory biosecurity procedures - Exclusive vessel availability for DOFAW during research periods - Internet access via Starlink or similar preferred - Crew with OSHA 30hr General Industry certification preferred - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; vessel operators must meet technical and safety requirements. - Notable Requirements: - Vessel must be available exclusively for DOFAW during 1-week windows - Biosecurity and safety compliance are critical - Support for advanced UAV operations and scientific research - Estimated contract value: $50,000 - $150,000 (based on typical vessel charter rates for similar research missions) - No product line items; primary service is research vessel charter for scientific operations.

Description

This solicitation is to contract a research vessel for at least two separate trips to Ka'ula Islet between late 2026 and summer 2027. The vessel will support UAV-based research including visual and mapping surveys, scientific equipment deployment and retrieval, and invertebrate collection. Bids must cover total days of work including staging, standby, loading of personnel and equipment, operations, and return, as well as estimated costs for fuel, crew, and food for both research trip periods. The vessel must meet specific operational and safety requirements and be available exclusively for DOFAW during research periods.

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