KA'ULA ISLET SURVEY RESEARCH VESSEL

The State of Hawaii’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife is seeking a research vessel to conduct two separate UAV‑based survey trips to Kaʻula Islet between late 2026 and summer 2027. The contractor must provide a vessel capable of transporting crew and scientific equipment, supporting UAV operations, and meeting extensive safety, compliance, and biosecurity requirements. The scope includes staging, transit, on‑site operations (3‑4 working days per trip), fuel, crew, food, and return logistics. The award will be made through the HIePRO electronic procurement system, and the vendor must be registered in Hawaii Compliance Express and hold all required maritime certifications. • Two research trips, each 3‑4 on‑site days plus transit (approximately 1 week per trip). • Vessel must accommodate 6‑7 passengers, have deck space ≥10 × 15 ft, power outlets (120/240 V), crane arm, and a stable tender (15‑20 ft). • Must support simultaneous operation of two UAV platforms, with high‑visibility spotting area. • Required certifications: U.S. Coast Guard safety inspections, hull/ballast inspections, VMS, communications, biosecurity procedures, and compliance with state/federal statutes. • Vendor must be registered in Hawaii Compliance Express (HCE) and submit offers electronically via HIePRO by 2 PM HST on 9 / 1 / 2026. • Estimated budget range (based on comparable research‑vessel charters) $300,000‑$600,000 for both trips.