Diving in different environments

General

Different underwater environments require different focus and diving modes.

Performing a secure dive depends on the conditions in the water. Assessing water visibility and obstacles is the primary things to evaluate before submerging the drone. Other factors, such as strong current, should also be assessed before heading into the water.

Plan your dive before submerging the Blueye underwater drones

The more you know about the objects and environment below the surface before you dive, the better.

We encourage you to always go through the following checklist and plan your dive before diving into the water:

1. Checklist for risk assessment

How is the water visibility? Clear or muddy water?
Is there a strong current? Evaluate how this will affect your dive.
Are there any obstacles located under the surface? Make sure to get a good view of your surroundings and evaluate possible threats to getting the tether stuck.
What do you do if the tether gets stuck? Make sure you know how to turn the drone around and to follow the tether back till you get loose.

2. Plan your dive

What part of the structure are you inspecting or what type of wreck are you planning to have a look at? Do your research before exploring. We recommend using drawings to illustrate your dive.
It's often recommended to be two persons performing a dive with the Blueye underwater drones. Let one person be in charge of the tether and the other one in charge of piloting the drone.
Always try to find the best possible working station for your dive. The sun and the weather can affect the performance of the dive in a negative way. Read how to improve your outdoor viewing.

Remember the following:

Try to deploy the Blueye underwater drone as close to the object as possible. This makes it easier to control your dive, save time, and decrease the risk.
Controlling the tether is vital! Try to keep as little tether into the water as possible. Always have a close look at the tether in the water so you can control the position of the drone and help the pilot during the dive.
End your dive before the battery is empty in case you need time for troubleshooting.

Diving in conditions with poor visibility

Many underwater locations have low visibility. These waters are a challenging situation for the drone pilot as it's a higher risk of getting lost and getting the tether stuck.

The best tips for diving under conditions with poor visibility is to try to get as close to the object as possible before you dive below the surface. You should also make sure the drone is calibrated. This way you can be sure to use the 3D model in the Blueye App interface for directions. If this is not an option, you should use the compass and note the heading before you submerge.

Diving in conditions with the strong current

Water current occurs from tidewater and in rivers. Many ports and harbors are often affected by both tidewater and water current.

In conditions with current, try to deploy the Blueye underwater drone with the current and not up against it. The powerful thrusters give a maximum speed of 1.5 m/s.

Always end your dive before the battery gets empty. You should prepare to have enough battery in case you get the tether stuck during your dive.

Diving in conditions with obstacles under the surface

Conducting underwater exploration in areas with obstacles involves a high risk of getting the tether stuck. Do not conduct any advanced dives before you have achieved enough user experience with the Blueye underwater drone. It's always a good idea to get a good overview of the structures underwater before diving in.

In case of getting the tether stuck - turn your drone around, have a look at your surroundings, and follow your tether back.