Request for Information: Voluntary Observing Ship (VOS) Program

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service (NWS), National Data Buoy Center (NDBC) is conducting market research on the capabilities of vendors to support the NDBC Voluntary Observing Ship (VOS) Program. Please see the attached Request for Information and Attachment 1 - DRAFT Statement of Objectives. The following question was received in response to this RFI:

QUESTION: Is NOAA intending to continue serving as the primary entity responsible for servicing the approximately 2,800 participating vessels, or is the VOS program exploring a transition of that service role and responsibility to an industry partner?

RESPONSE: Yes, NOAA intends to continue serving as the primary entity responsible for the VOS Program. NOAA is seeking commercial partners that can provide support in maintaining and growing the VOS Program to ensure long-term viability. NOAA is hoping that responses to this RFI will provide information to aid in understanding what commercial partners could offer to help sustain the program.