Bathymetric LiDAR For Shallow-Water Mapping
Accurate mapping in aquatic environments has always presented a unique challenge. Traditional methods, such as sonar or boat-based surveying, can be slow, expensive, and limited by accessibility – especially in shallow or transitional zones where water meets land. This is where bathymetric LiDAR technology has become essential, offering an airborne solution that can efficiently capture both shallow water and terrestrial topography in a single dataset.
Among the current generation of bathymetric LiDAR systems, the YellowScan Navigator stands out for its focus on shallow-water environments, compact design, and compatibility with a range of UAV platforms – including the DJI M400, one of the most versatile professional drones on the market.
What Is Bathymetric LiDAR?
Bathymetric LiDAR uses a green laser that penetrates the water surface, allowing measurements of both the water column and the seabed. By combining this data with conventional LiDAR returns from land, users can create continuous, high-resolution 3D models of the coastal interface.
While some bathymetric systems are designed for deep-water applications, the YellowScan Navigator is optimised specifically for shallow-water and nearshore mapping. This distinction is crucial: rather than attempting to penetrate deep depths, the Navigator prioritises data accuracy and point density in shallower, more dynamic zones where detailed understanding of the environment is required.
Why Shallow Water Mapping Matters
Shallow-water environments are some of the most complex and valuable ecological and engineering zones on Earth. They’re dynamic, ever-changing, and often difficult to reach. For surveyors, environmental consultants, and construction teams, gaining accurate bathymetric and topographic data in these areas is essential for planning, monitoring, and management.
The YellowScan Navigator delivers reliable results in such conditions – especially in locations like:
• Mangrove ecosystems, where conventional surveying is hindered by dense vegetation and tidal variability.
• Coastal erosion and sediment transport studies, where frequent and accurate elevation data supports long-term environmental monitoring.
• Island construction and land reclamation projects, where engineers require precise pre- and post-dredging models.
In all these applications, the ability to collect both land and shallow-water data in one flight significantly improves efficiency while reducing field time and risk.
A Compact, Efficient, and Precise Solution
Weighing 4.5kg including the battery, the YellowScan Navigator achieves a balance between performance and portability that’s well-suited to UAV operations. The system is built around YellowScan’s established focus on reliability and user simplicity, offering a streamlined workflow from acquisition to processing.
The Navigator is lightweight, which means it can be deployed on several UAV platforms without compromising stability or endurance. The DJI Matrice 400 RTK (M400) is a particularly strong pairing – combining robust flight control, advanced RTK positioning, and an open payload architecture that accommodates professional sensors like the Navigator with ease.
The system is also compatible with other industrial-grade platforms such as the Hexadrone Tundra 2, Beyond Vision BVQ418, and Acecore Noa, giving operators flexibility depending on their operational requirements or existing fleet.
Balanced Perspective: Choosing the Right Tool
While the YellowScan Navigator offers a strong balance of accuracy, weight, and UAV compatibility, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Bathymetric LiDAR selection depends on project depth requirements, water clarity, and the operational environment.
For example, projects demanding deeper water penetration may benefit from alternative systems or complementary sonar-based solutions. However, for shallow-water mapping, coastal engineering, or environmental monitoring, the Navigator remains one of the most efficient and cost-effective options on the market.
Its streamlined integration and dependable performance make it a practical choice for operators who need consistent, high-quality data across complex coastal or inland water environments.
YellowScan Navigator Demo Day – JA Resort, Dubai
On Friday 3rd October, we hosted a YellowScan Navigator demo day at JA Resort, Dubai, giving attendees the chance to see the system in action. The event featured a live flight over shallow coastal waters, showcasing the YellowScan LiDAR payload in a real-world environment. After the flight, participants reviewed and processed the collected data together, demonstrating how efficiently the system captures accurate bathymetric and topographic information in shallow-water conditions.
The demo highlighted the Navigator’s ease of deployment, precision, and practical applications – from environmental monitoring to coastal engineering projects. It provided attendees with a clear, hands-on understanding of how bathymetric LiDAR can improve efficiency, reduce field time, and deliver high-quality data for complex survey operations.
Available Through Drone Shop
As an authorised YellowScan dealer, DroneShop.ae supports survey professionals, engineering firms, and environmental specialists in selecting and integrating the right payloads for their operational goals.
We supply and support a range of YellowScan LiDAR solutions – including the YellowScan Navigator – and work with clients to identify the most appropriate combination of drone, payload, and workflow for their project requirements.
For advice on choosing a LiDAR system or integrating the Navigator with your drone, contact our team for technical guidance and availability.
