​Through an inspiring programme of keynote speakers, presentations and panel-led discussion forums, this three-day conference, and accompanying exhibition, will focus on the latest innovations, applications and deployments in remote and automated hydrography. It will consider how these tools are providing novel approaches, efficiencies and benefits to the commercial survey industry, as well as enhancing the exploration and mapping of the world's seafloor, populating the white spaces on charts, improvement of navigational safety and implementation of e-Navigation and autonomous shipping.

Many of these innovative remote techniques are already finding applications in seismic survey, geological and geophysical studies, seabed assessment for offshore construction, installation of renewable energy infrastructures, civil engineering projects in shallow, coastal waters, offshore pipe laying, inspection and support, academic research and military operations.

Furthermore, by enabling rapid and robust data gathering in seldom surveyed or uncharted areas where traditional approaches are neither suitable, nor cost-effective, these tools are making significant contributions to the drive to map the gaps in the global seabed dataset. Many of these remote and automated approaches are also fundamental to hydrographic capacity development of the world's Small Island Developing States (SIDS), particularly those seeking to welcome cruise liners.

However, does the adoption of these methods and technologies fulfil the demands of hydrographic and offshore survey or are there gaps and shortcomings? Case studies and reviews are now becoming available to assist in evaluating the situation.

Automation doesn't end with robotic data collection as increasing data densities from a wider range of data sources have led to advancements such as remote or smart transfer and handling of big data, data processing using AI and machine learning and novel visualisation techniques better suited to end user needs. Moreover, rapid data processing turnaround is an enabling factor for operations relying upon data close to the computing edge, such as e-Navigation and autonomous shipping operations.

We are kindly supported by our partners the Geological Survey Ireland, Marine Institute, INFOMAR and Fáilte Ireland.  INFOMAR will run their annual seminar on Monday 21 February at the same venue so that the two events can complement each other.