How to bid on Port Operations Support Services for the DEPT of Defense

What the Navy is buying and why it matters

The Department of Defense, specifically the Navy, is looking for a small business to provide port operations support services. This work involves operating and maintaining various boats and watercraft, performing general port operations, and handling waterfront administration. The services are needed at five locations in the Southeast US: Naval Air Station Pensacola, Naval Support Activity Panama City, Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Naval Station Mayport, and Naval Air Station Key West.

This is an opportunity for small businesses to secure a contract providing essential support to Navy port operations across multiple key bases.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on August 28, 2026. The deadline for submitting your proposal is September 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time. All proposals must be submitted by this time.

Questions regarding the solicitation were due by August 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time. Answers to some of these questions, along with a draft DD254 form, are included in Amendment 0002, dated August 28, 2026. You must acknowledge and return any amendments with your proposal.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is set aside specifically for small business concerns. Firms with experience in marine operations, boat maintenance, port management, or waterfront administrative services would be well-suited. The work involves operating various watercraft and providing related support services at multiple naval installations.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details and documents, you need to view the original source on the portal. You may need to click the "View original source" link twice if the first click takes you to the portal's homepage. A free account may be required to view the documents, though this is not always the case for every bid.

This is a Request for Proposal (RFP), and it is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial services. A separate written solicitation will not be issued. Ensure you refer to the attached RFP for complete information and instructions. Remember to sign and return all amendments, including Amendment 0002, with your proposal documentation.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully read through all sections of the Request for Proposal, including all amendments. Pay close attention to the scope of work, which includes operating and maintaining boats, port operations, and waterfront administration across the five specified locations. Your proposal should clearly demonstrate your firm's capability to perform these diverse tasks at each site.

Since this is a small business set-aside, ensure your company meets all small business criteria. Highlight any past performance or experience your firm has with similar port operations, watercraft management, or support services, especially for government or military clients. Address how you will manage operations across multiple sites effectively. Finally, double-check that all required forms, including signed amendments, are included and properly completed before the submission deadline.