Hudson Bay Bathymetric Survey
Project Summary
Kitikmeot Challenger completed a high-resolution bathymetric survey in northern Hudson Bay. The work was requested and funded by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) under the Government of Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan.
The survey captured detailed multibeam data to support safer navigation, scientific research, and improved understanding of marine environments in a remote and challenging region.
Project Duration: Summer of 2025 – 40+ Days
Approximate Hours: Approximately 1,200+ field and processing hours
Service Delivered and Outcomes
- Products Provided: Seafloor mapping data.
- Services Provided: High-resolution multibeam bathymetric survey
Project Priority
- Quality
- Time
- Money
Problem Solved
DFO and CHS required updated, high-resolution seabed mapping in a remote northern corridor of Hudson Bay to support marine safety, federal research initiatives, and long-term planning under the Oceans Protection Plan. This project provided accurate, modern bathymetry where little reliable data previously existed.
Project Communication and Collaboration Summary
- Close coordination between Kitikmeot Challenger and the client (DFO/CHS).
- Daily communication between field crew and office support ensured safety, data consistency, and equipment reliability.
- Real-time issue solving onboard the vessel.
Lessons Learned
- Early mobilization reduces time pressure in remote environments.
- Frequent crew rotations help maintain safety, morale, and data quality during long deployments.
- Larger vessels significantly improve storage, equipment routing, and living conditions for extended offshore work.
- Onboard collaboration and adaptability remain critical when working in constrained marine spaces and unpredictable weather.
Innovative Approaches and Outcomes
- Use of both hull-mounted and pole-mounted sonar configurations to maximize coverage.
- Continuous data monitoring and initial quality control in CARIS HIPS and SIPS ensured data integrity despite challenging conditions.
- Efficient problem-solving demonstrated our team’s ability to deliver high-quality bathymetric work in extreme environments.
