Singlebeam Batheymetry Applications

River and channel cross‑sections Small inland water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs and ponds Dredge monitoring Environmental and sedimentation studies Pre‑ and post‑construction coastal inspections

Key Advantages of Singlebeam Bathymetry

Efficient for linear survey paths Suitable for shallow or constricted waterways Lower mobilisation and processing costs Effective for long‑term monitoring programmes

Typical Singlebeam Bathymetry Deliverables

Depth profiles along survey lines Cross‑sections Contour plans XYZ datasets for modelling Sediment profiles

Multibeam Batheymetry Applications

Marine construction planning Offshore infrastructure inspections Dredging design and QA/QC Seabed classification and habitat mapping Wreck and hazard detection Coastal erosion and morphology studies

Key Advantages of Multibeam Bathymetry

Complete seabed coverage High‑resolution 3D modelling Excellent for complex topography Suitable for engineering‑grade datasets

Typical Multibeam Bathymetry Deliverables

High‑density point clouds Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) Shaded relief maps 3D visualisations Backscatter imagery

Bathymetry Surveying

Organisations working in coastal engineering, marine construction, ports, waterways, energy and environmental management rely on dependable underwater data to reduce risk and improve decision‑making. Bathymetry helps overcome challenges such as unknown seabed conditions, sedimentation changes, navigational hazards, dredging inaccuracies, compliance requirements and long‑term asset monitoring.

Bathymetry Surveying

What Is Bathymetry?

Bathymetry is the measurement and mapping of underwater topography - essentially the underwater equivalent of land surveying. Using sonar technology, we collect water depth data to produce charts, profiles, and 3D models of the seabed, riverbed, lakes, reservoirs, and other water bodies.

We deploy both Singlebeam and Multibeam echosounders, allowing us to tailor the survey method to the project area, resolution requirements, and environmental conditions.

At SOCOTEC, our network of hydrographic experts deploy modern survey vessels, precise GNSS positioning and industry‑approved sonar technology to collect reliable underwater data. Whether delivering assessments or detailed 3D seabed models, we work collaboratively with clients to deliver accurate insights that support safer and more efficient project delivery.

We deploy both Singlebeam and Multibeam echosounders, allowing us to tailor the survey method to the project area, resolution requirements, and environmental conditions.

Bathymetry Surveying

What Bathymetry do I need?

Choosing the right Bathymetry method depends on the coverage and detail you need: Multibeam Bathymetry is the best option when you require full‑coverage mapping, high‑resolution 3D seabed models, backscatter imagery or detailed hazard detection, as its integrated GNSS/INS systems routinely achieve high‑order hydrographic standards and minimise tide‑related error.

In contrast, Single Beam Bathymetry is ideal for cost‑effective depth profiles in rivers, channels and shallow or constrained areas where achieving complete seabed ensonification with Multibeam would be too time‑consuming or outside budget; dual‑frequency echosounders also allow penetration through soft silt to the harder seabed below, which is particularly useful for dredging, construction and environmental sediment mapping projects.

Our network of hydrographic experts deploy modern survey vessels, precise GNSS positioning and industry‑approved sonar technology to collect reliable underwater data. Whether delivering assessments or detailed 3D seabed models, we work collaboratively with clients to deliver accurate insights that support safer and more efficient project delivery.

Our proven Bathymetry Expertise

Singlebeam Bathymetry

Singlebeam bathymetry collects water depth directly beneath the survey vessel along defined profiles. It is a cost‑effective and reliable method, ideal for linear or long‑section surveys where full seabed coverage is not required.

River and channel cross‑sections
Small inland water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs and ponds
Dredge monitoring
Environmental and sedimentation studies
Pre‑ and post‑construction coastal inspections

Efficient for linear survey paths
Suitable for shallow or constricted waterways
Lower mobilisation and processing costs
Effective for long‑term monitoring programmes

Depth profiles along survey lines
Cross‑sections
Contour plans
XYZ datasets for modelling
Sediment profiles

Multibeam Bathymetry

Multibeam Bathymetry produces full‑coverage seabed mapping using a swath of acoustic beams, capturing high‑density 3D data across the entire underwater surface.