What is a "digital bathymetric map"?

A digital bathymetric map is a digital representation of underwater topography utilized primarily for navigation and various marine applications. These maps are created using advanced surveying techniques, such as sonar, to provide detailed information about the underwater landscape, including depths, seabed features, and varying terrains. They are critical for navigation, marine planning, and environmental assessments, as they allow maritime operators to understand underwater hazards, shipping lanes, and fishing grounds.

In contrast to a traditional paper map, a digital bathymetric map can be easily updated, manipulated, and integrated with other digital tools, making it far more versatile for navigational uses. The advanced data processing involved in creating these maps enables users to visualize complex underwater features in a way that flat, paper maps cannot achieve. Additionally, while 3D models of coastal areas and radar-based navigation tools are important in their respective fields, they are not specifically classified as bathymetric maps, making them less relevant in this context.