How to bid on preparing, towing, and sinking the Research Vessel Cape Hatteras for NC DEQ

What the agency is buying

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a contractor to handle the preparation, towing, and sinking of the Research Vessel Cape Hatteras. This is a specific service contract for a single vessel.

Vendors interested in marine services, vessel decommissioning, or specialized towing and sinking operations may find this opportunity relevant. It involves a clear scope of work for a defined project.

Key dates and deadlines

This Invitation for Bid (IFB) was published on August 28, 2026. The deadline for submitting your response is October 15, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. All responses must be submitted by this time.

It is important to submit your bid well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues. Late submissions are generally not accepted.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with expertise in marine operations, including vessel handling, towing, and controlled sinking. Companies specializing in maritime salvage, environmental marine services, or port operations with relevant equipment and experience would be a good fit.

The category for this bid is food and agriculture, which may seem unusual for a marine vessel project. However, it is important to focus on the specific services requested in the solicitation documents.

How to respond

To access the full solicitation documents and instructions, you need to visit the North Carolina electronic Vendor Portal (eVP). The solicitation document number is Doc2374792206. Viewing the posting and its documents is public and does not require an account.

To submit a response, you must first create a free vendor registration on the NC eVP. The posting will direct you on how to submit your bid, whether directly through eVP or a separate NC eProcurement tool like Ivalua, before the stated deadline. Leah Bartlett is the agency point of contact for this solicitation.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all sections of the solicitation document, Doc2374792206, to understand the exact requirements for preparing, towing, and sinking the vessel. Pay close attention to any specifications regarding environmental compliance, safety protocols, and necessary permits.

Ensure your bid clearly outlines your firm's experience with similar marine projects, including details on equipment, personnel qualifications, and a proposed timeline for completion. Provide a detailed cost breakdown for each phase of the work.

Double-check that all required forms and certifications are completed accurately and submitted with your response. Confirm that your company meets all eligibility criteria specified in the IFB.