Bathymetric surveys, which involve mapping the underwater topography of lakes, rivers, oceans, and other bodies of water, have historically been conducted using traditional manned boats equipped with sonar systems. While effective, these methods can be time-consuming, expensive, and sometimes risky, especially in shallow, remote, or hazardous waters. However, drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned surface vessels (USVs) are facilitating bathymetric surveys by offering a faster, more efficient, and safer alternative.

A bathymetric survey measures the depth and topography of the underwater surface, providing a detailed map of the waterbed. These surveys are essential for a variety of industries, including environmental monitoring, coastal engineering, underwater construction, and scientific research. Traditional methods often rely on echo sounders mounted on boats or ships, but drones now offer new possibilities for bathymetric data collection.

There are two primary types of drones used in bathymetric surveys, Aerial Drones (UAVs) and Surface Drones or USVs: