What lies beneath the surface of the endless ocean? It has been the subject of many conspiracy theories, hasn’t it? Despite the debunked legends and baseless rumours, measuring the depth of water beneath the surface is an ongoing task. Mariners and hydrographic scientists are aware of the importance of calculating sea depth.

The term hydrographic survey refers to the science of measuring and analysing the surfaces of water beyond the seafloor. As a result of this survey, the sea route, marine development, drilling, and seaward oil exploration/penetration are influenced. A strong emphasis is placed on soundings, coastlines, tides, flow, seabed, and submerged obstructions.

It is possible to think that hydrographic survey is only meant for leisure activities like tourism and boating. It’s far from the truth since hydrographic tools were one of the biggest inventions of the era. Hydrographic survey technology has changed the game for marine research in a number of ways, from navigation safety to bathymetric data and dredging techniques.

Areas Serviced

Bathymetric and hydrographic technology has seen the advent of high-end technological tools brought by the evolution in technology. At Total Hydrographic, we exclusively deal in hydrographic and bathymetric survey services in the states of Victoria, NSW, SA & QLD. Employing a range of tools to provide reliable and usable data, we are committed to providing valuable information that is used to create topographic maps.

There are multiple tools used to do the challenging task of Bathymetric surveying underwater

  • Using Side Scan Sonar (SSS) – examining large areas of water for hazards and features that protrude from the seabed.
  • Multi-beam surveys enable optimal post processing, exceptional mapping, and more dense data.
  • Shallow water areas may be better served by single-beam data.
  • Terrestrial survey options complement your hydrographic survey needs so that you have a seamless model.

As part of the surveys, data is also collected that is important in the management of coastal zones as well as drilling, dredging, and marine habitat mapping.

Type of Bathymetric Surveys

Changing trends have resulted in hydrographic surveys becoming more focused on analysing the data by hydrographic scientists. Analysis includes determining how assets such as anchors, dredges, constructions, and fisheries habitats will be arranged on the seafloor. 

Utilising the latest technologies and the latest bits of hardware, Total Hydrographics’ marine planning and GIS administration ensures the usefulness and accuracy of the data. Providing cost-effective and accurate solutions is of utmost importance to us, as is keeping to the client’s budget and specifications.

In addition to hydrographic surveying, the company offers terrestrial surveying as well to complement its research on hydrographic. Hydrographic consulting is another part of the package that ensures the project progresses reliably by ensuring the right survey is conducted at the right time.

Traditionally, depth was measured by dropping a weight attached to a rope over the vessel’s side. When the weight touches the bottom, the rope becomes slack. The rope is then pulled back on-board and the length of rope needed to touch the bottom is determined.

But bathymetric and hydrographic survey tools used by Total Hydrographics transitioned and refined the survey services to a whole new platform. Led by certified hydrographic surveyors and marine mapping/GIS professionals, you best believe the company is going to take over the entire industry with its constant innovative survey strategies.