The underwater exploration equipment companies industry focuses on technologies essential for various underwater applications. This sector includes firms developing remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), specialized imaging, sonar systems, and more. These advancements are evolving to meet stricter environmental regulations and increased demand for underwater data collection. An interesting aspect is the push toward not only effective exploration solutions but also eco-friendly practices, spurred by growing awareness of marine ecosystems. As industries globally recognize the value of underwater resources, the range of applications for these technologies expands, paving the way for innovation and collaboration in the sector.

The companies listed represent a spectrum of sizes and specializations within the underwater exploration equipment industry. With headquarters spanning across the United States, United Kingdom, and several international locations, they range from large firms with hundreds of employees to startups with specialized capabilities. Founded between the 1970s and 2010s, these companies produce a variety of technologies and equipment. They include pioneers in robotic vehicles, marine sonar systems, and underwater imaging solutions, demonstrating a rich history of innovation. Their capacity to adapt to changing market conditions emphasizes their significance in marine exploration.

Continue reading to discover the top underwater exploration equipment companies.

Top 23 Underwater Exploration Equipment Companies

1. Deep Ocean Engineering, Inc.

• Website: deepocean.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Jose, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, Malaysia 16%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: deep-ocean-engineering-inc-

Deep Ocean Engineering, Inc., based in San Jose, California, has been a player in the underwater robotics sector since its founding in 1982. The company designs, manufactures, and tests a range of underwater vehicles, including ROVs and USVs, at its facility in Silicon Valley. With a commitment to innovation, Deep Ocean Engineering has delivered over 600 ROV systems worldwide, serving clients in scientific research, education, military, law enforcement, and the oil and gas industries. Their products are engineered to operate reliably in harsh underwater conditions, making them a valuable asset for various applications such as pipeline inspections, nuclear facility support, and cinematography. The company prides itself on its rugged and user-friendly designs, which are tailored to meet the specific needs of its customers.

2. Sonardyne International Ltd

• Website: sonardyne.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Yateley, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 96%, Brazil 3%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), May 2023
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sonardyne-international-ltd

Sonardyne International Ltd, founded in 1971 and based in Yateley, England, is a private company that specializes in underwater technology. With a workforce of approximately 278 employees, Sonardyne provides advanced engineering services primarily for the energy, defense, and scientific research sectors. Their extensive range of products includes subsea navigation systems, marine robotics, and custom engineering solutions, all designed to enhance operational efficiency and safety in challenging underwater environments. The company serves a variety of clients, including businesses and organizations that require innovative technologies for underwater exploration and operations. Sonardyne's commitment to supporting the transition to renewable energy, alongside their established presence in oil and gas, underscores their relevance in the underwater exploration equipment industry. They also engage in various services such as technology support and data harvesting, further solidifying their role in the sector.

3. Unique Group

• Website: uniquegroup.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• Employee distribution: United Arab Emirates 45%, South Africa 18%, India 11%, Other 26%
• Latest funding: July 2014
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: unique-maritime-group

Unique Group, founded in 1993 and based in Sharjah, UAE, is an engineering company that specializes in subsea technologies and offshore equipment. With a workforce of approximately 784 employees, the company has established itself as a provider of a wide range of products and services tailored for underwater operations. Their offerings include unmanned surface vessels, advanced diving equipment, and customized engineering solutions. Unique Group serves a variety of industries, including oil and gas, defense, and medical sectors, where their expertise is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient underwater operations. The company has a global presence, with significant operations in the UAE, South Africa, India, the UK, and the USA, reflecting their capability to support international projects. Their recent acquisition of Subsea Innovation highlights their ongoing commitment to enhancing their engineering and consulting expertise, further solidifying their position in the underwater exploration market.

4. MacArtney Underwater Technology Group

• Website: macartney.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Esbjerg, Denmark
• Employee distribution: Denmark 48%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, United States (USA) 7%, Other 28%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: macartney-as

MacArtney Underwater Technology Group, founded in 1978 and headquartered in Esbjerg, Denmark, is a private company that specializes in providing advanced underwater technology solutions. With a workforce of approximately 381 employees, the company serves a variety of sectors including marine and offshore, ocean science, and naval industries. MacArtney offers a comprehensive range of products and services, including connectivity solutions, launch and recovery systems, and data acquisition technologies. Their innovative approach aims to improve the efficiency and safety of underwater operations, catering to the needs of oil and gas operators, ROV and diving contractors, and renewable energy projects. The company has established a global footprint, with significant operations in Denmark, the UK, the USA, and other countries, reflecting their commitment to supporting underwater exploration and technology development.

5. OceanWorks International

• Website: oceanworks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: oceanworks-international

OceanWorks International, based in Burnaby, British Columbia, has been a player in the subsea technology sector since its founding in 1986. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing both manned and unmanned underwater work systems, catering to military, oil and gas, and scientific clients worldwide. With a strong emphasis on safety and reliability, OceanWorks provides engineering and fabrication services that meet the rigorous demands of underwater operations. Their portfolio includes submarine rescue systems, remote intervention tooling, and subsea network systems, which are critical for various underwater exploration projects. The company has built a reputation for its commitment to quality, adhering to strict standards such as ISO 9001:2008 and MILSPEC requirements. OceanWorks also engages in community initiatives, supporting educational programs and technological development in the marine industry.

6. VideoRay: Underwater Robots

• Website: videoray.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Pottstown, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Mexico 3%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $4.0M, April 2023
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: videoray-llc

VideoRay: Underwater Robots, based in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, has been a significant player in the underwater robotics industry since its founding in 1999. The company designs and manufactures a range of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) that are utilized across various sectors, including defense, civil inspection, aquaculture, and more. VideoRay's ROVs are engineered for reliability and efficiency, making them suitable for critical underwater operations. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their guarantee of parts and service availability for new systems for a decade from the purchase date. In April 2023, VideoRay secured $4 million in funding, indicating ongoing investment in their technology and capabilities. This funding supports their mission to provide effective solutions for organizations that require safe and efficient underwater operations.

7. Mariscope

• Website: mariscope.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Puerto Montt, Los Lagos, Chile
• Employee distribution: Chile 67%, Costa Rica 33%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mariscope

Mariscope, founded in 2006 and based in Puerto Montt, Los Lagos, Chile, is a private marine technology provider. The company employs between 11 to 50 people and operates primarily in the fields of marine technology, oceanography, and diving. Mariscope specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of a range of underwater equipment, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), towed systems, cameras, and oceanographic sensors. They cater to various sectors, including marine science, oil and gas, and underwater exploration. In addition to their product offerings, Mariscope provides specialized services such as scientific surveys, inspections, and documentary filmmaking. Their commitment to quality is evident in their provision of a limited lifetime warranty on their ROVs and other systems, which is a notable feature in the market.

8. Saab Seaeye

• Website: saabseaeye.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Fareham, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 95%, Sweden 3%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $16.5M, May 2007
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: saab-seaeye-ltd.

Saab Seaeye, founded in 1986 and based in Fareham, England, is a manufacturer of advanced underwater robotics. The company provides innovative solutions tailored for various sectors, including oil and gas, military, and marine science. Saab Seaeye's product lineup features underwater vehicles, electric manipulators, and deployment systems, all designed to meet the rigorous demands of underwater operations. Their technology is recognized for its reliability and efficiency, making it a preferred choice for businesses engaged in complex underwater tasks. The company also acquired Hydro-Lek in 2013, expanding its capabilities in hydraulic tooling for subsea applications. Saab Seaeye's commitment to developing eco-responsible robotics aligns with the industry's shift towards sustainable practices, further enhancing its relevance in the underwater exploration equipment market.

9. Subsea Tech

• Website: subsea-tech.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte D'Azur, France
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: subsea-tech

Subsea Tech, founded in 2005 and based in Marseille, France, is a private marine technology company that specializes in underwater inspection and investigation solutions. With a team of 23 employees, the company has developed a range of products including ROVs, AUVs, USVs, and underwater cameras. These products cater to various sectors such as offshore energy, environmental studies, and infrastructure inspection. Subsea Tech is not only focused on manufacturing but also provides essential services like training and support, ensuring that clients can effectively operate their equipment in demanding underwater conditions. The company has conducted over 180 interventions across France and internationally, serving more than 80 private and public entities. Their commitment to innovation is evident through their ongoing R&D projects and industrial collaborations, which aim to enhance the capabilities of underwater exploration technologies.

10. Eelume AS

• Website: eelume.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Trondheim, Trøndelag, Norway
• Employee distribution: Norway 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: eelume

Eelume AS, founded in 2015 and based in Trondheim, Norway, is a marine technology company that specializes in advanced autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The company emerged as a spin-off from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), drawing on a decade of research in snake robotics. Eelume's AUVs, particularly the S-series and M-series, are engineered for ocean exploration, inspection, and data collection. They serve a variety of sectors, including marine research, energy, and defense, providing innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of underwater operations. Eelume's technology allows for complex underwater surveys, including under-ice research and inspection of critical infrastructure, while minimizing environmental impact. The company is dedicated to advancing marine cybernetics and improving the accessibility and quality of oceanic data, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of ocean environments.

11. Smd

• Website: smd.co.uk
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Wallsend, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 95%, China 3%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: February 2015
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: soil-machine-dynamics-ltd

Soil Machine Dynamics Ltd. (Smd) is a corporate entity based in Wallsend, England, established in 1971. The company specializes in subsea technology, providing engineering solutions tailored for underwater operations. Smd's product offerings include trenchers, ROVs, and cable handling systems, primarily catering to clients in the offshore telecommunications, oil & gas, and renewable energy sectors. Their innovative technologies are designed to enhance operational efficiency and safety in challenging underwater environments. With a workforce of approximately 384 employees, Smd has built a reputation for delivering reliable and effective solutions that address the complexities of underwater exploration and intervention. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model focused on its core competencies.

12. Tritech International Limited

• Website: tritech.co.uk
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Westhill, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 96%, United States (USA) 4%
• Latest funding: $33.3M, August 2012
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tritech-international-limited

Tritech International Limited, founded in 1991 and based in Westhill, Scotland, is a technology company dedicated to providing advanced subsea solutions. With a workforce of around 68 employees, Tritech has built a robust portfolio of products that includes multibeam sonars, altimeters, and various survey sensors. Their offerings are designed for use in demanding underwater environments, catering to sectors such as energy, defense, diving, and marine science. Tritech's products are known for their durability and effectiveness, often remaining operational for decades. The company emphasizes customer support and safety, aiming to reduce risks associated with underwater operations. Over the years, Tritech has expanded its global presence, establishing a sales office in the USA and a network of resellers worldwide. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their continuous product development and adaptation to market needs.

13. DOER Marine

• Website: doermarine.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Alameda, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: doer-marine

DOER Marine, founded in 1992 by Dr. Sylvia Earle, is a marine technology company based in Alameda, California. The firm specializes in underwater exploration and research, focusing on the design and manufacture of advanced submersibles and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). With a team of around 26 employees, DOER Marine has built over 200 underwater vehicles, showcasing their expertise in creating multi-mission platforms for various applications, including deep-sea exploration, underwater archaeology, and infrastructure inspection. The company also provides marine consulting services and training for submersible operations, catering to a clientele that includes academic institutions and industry professionals. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their circular manufacturing practices, ensuring that materials are chosen for both performance and recyclability. DOER Marine's innovative approach and extensive experience position them as a significant player in the underwater exploration equipment sector.

14. Ocean Infinity

• Website: oceaninfinity.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 34%, Sweden 23%, Portugal 18%, Other 24%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: ocean-infinity-llc

Ocean Infinity, founded in 2017 and based in Austin, Texas, is a technology company that specializes in robotic and uncrewed vessel operations. With a workforce of over 500 specialists, the company provides advanced data acquisition and environmental services across various sectors, including energy, telecommunications, government, defense, and scientific research. Their innovative approach focuses on minimizing environmental impacts while enhancing operational safety through remote technology. Ocean Infinity operates the largest fleet of deep-water AUVs globally and has made significant contributions to underwater exploration, including high-resolution seabed mapping and geotechnical sampling. They have also been involved in notable projects, such as the search for the missing Argentine submarine ARA San Juan and the recovery of the lost South Korean tanker Stellar Daisy. Their ongoing development of hybrid and ammonia-powered robotic ships, known as the Armada, reflects their commitment to transforming maritime operations and supporting the global energy transition.

15. Deep Trekker Inc.

• Website: deeptrekker.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 93%, Chile 4%, United Kingdom (UK) 2%
• Latest funding: $47.6M, April 2022
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: deep-trekker-inc-

Deep Trekker Inc., based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, is a robotics manufacturer that specializes in underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and related technologies. Established in 2010, the company has carved out a niche in various sectors, including aquaculture, energy, and defense, providing solutions for underwater inspections and monitoring. Their product lineup includes a range of ROVs, CCTV pipe crawlers, utility crawlers, and submersible cameras, all designed with user-friendliness and portability in mind. Deep Trekker's commitment to innovation is evident in their advanced technologies, such as BRIDGE Tech, which enhances the operational capabilities of their ROVs. The company has also received significant funding, with a reported amount of $47.6 million in April 2022, indicating strong investor confidence and a focus on growth. This funding supports their ongoing development of cutting-edge underwater robotics, positioning them as a notable player in the underwater exploration equipment industry.

16. Ocean Aero Inc

• Website: oceanaero.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Gulfport, Mississippi, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series D, $4.0M, September 2022
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ocean-aero-inc

Ocean Aero Inc, founded in 2012 and based in Gulfport, Mississippi, is a maritime technology company focused on ocean exploration and data collection. The company has developed the TRITON, the world's first and only Autonomous Underwater and Surface Vehicle (AUSV). This innovative vehicle is designed to operate in challenging ocean environments, providing tailored solutions for defense, research, and energy sectors. Ocean Aero's technology allows for efficient and effective data collection, addressing the complexities of ocean exploration. The TRITON can autonomously sail and submerge, collecting vital data while minimizing environmental impact through its wind and solar power capabilities. The company has received $4 million in funding as of September 2022, reflecting its potential for growth and continued relevance in the maritime technology industry.

17. Triton Submarines LLC

• Website: tritonsubs.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sebastian, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 57%, Spain 36%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%
• Latest funding: December 2022
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: triton-submarines

Triton Submarines LLC, founded in 2007 and based in Sebastian, Florida, is a private manufacturer specializing in submersibles designed for leisure, commercial, and professional applications. With a workforce of approximately 53 employees, Triton has carved out a niche in the underwater exploration industry by providing advanced solutions that prioritize safety and comfort. Their submersibles are utilized by yacht owners, cruise lines, and research organizations, showcasing their versatility across different sectors. Triton is known for its innovative designs, including the world's first submersible with a free-form acrylic pressure hull, which enhances the underwater experience for users. The company also offers support services, including maintenance and bespoke projects, ensuring that their clients receive comprehensive assistance. Triton's submersibles have been featured in notable documentaries and expeditions, further solidifying their position in the industry.

18. Blueprint Subsea

• Website: blueprintsubsea.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cumbria, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: blueprint-design-engineering-ltd

Blueprint Subsea, founded in 2006 and based in Cumbria, England, is a private technology firm that specializes in underwater acoustic products. The company focuses on developing imaging sonars, acoustic positioning systems, and diver navigation systems. Their products are designed to meet the rigorous demands of marine research, defense, and commercial diving sectors. By manufacturing their products in-house, Blueprint Subsea ensures high quality and reliability, which is crucial for their clients who operate in challenging underwater environments. The company is committed to innovation, aiming to provide affordable and effective solutions for underwater navigation and imaging. Their technology has been utilized in various applications, including search and rescue operations and underwater archaeology, demonstrating their relevance in the industry.

19. Edgetech

• Website: edgetech.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wareham, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, India 50%
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: edgetech

Edgetech, based in Wareham, Massachusetts, is a private technology company founded in 1965. The firm specializes in underwater technology, particularly in the development and manufacturing of sonar systems and custom-engineered products. Their offerings include a range of sonar solutions such as side scan sonar, sub-bottom profilers, and systems for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Edgetech serves a variety of sectors, including oil and gas, fisheries, and defense, providing critical tools for underwater exploration, monitoring, and research. The company has established a reputation for innovation in sonar technology, with products designed for high-resolution imaging and effective underwater data collection. With a workforce split between the United States and India, Edgetech continues to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of its clients in the underwater exploration industry.

20. Chasing Underwater Drones

• Website: chasing.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
• Employee distribution: China 89%, United States (USA) 11%
• Latest funding: Series B, January 2024
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: chasingunderwaterdrones

Chasing Underwater Drones, officially known as Chasing Innovation (Shenzhen) Technology Co., LTD, is a technology firm based in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. Established in 2016, the company has carved out a niche in the underwater exploration equipment market by specializing in underwater drones and related technologies. Their product lineup includes various models designed for applications such as scientific research, underwater inspections, and emergency rescue operations. Chasing's commitment to innovation is reflected in their active community forum, where users share experiences and insights about their underwater adventures. The company serves a broad customer base, including businesses and individual consumers interested in marine technology, and has a notable presence in both the Chinese and U.S. markets.

21. Marine Sonic Technology, A Brand of Atlas North America

• Website: marinesonic.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Yorktown, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: November 2014
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: marine-sonic-technology-ltd.

Marine Sonic Technology, a brand of Atlas North America, is a technology and manufacturing company based in Yorktown, Virginia. Founded in 1990, the company specializes in sonar systems and underwater imaging solutions. Their product offerings include towed sonar systems, embedded sonar systems for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and synthetic aperture sonar systems. Marine Sonic Technology serves a wide range of clients, including government agencies, educational institutions, and underwater surveyors. Their systems are utilized in various applications such as military operations, scientific surveys, oceanic construction, and search and rescue missions. The company prides itself on its customer relationships and commitment to providing high-quality imaging technology, which is essential for accurate underwater assessments.

22. DeepSea Power & Light

• Website: deepsea.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: deepsea-power-%26-light

DeepSea Power & Light, based in San Diego, California, is a private subsea technology company founded in 1983. The firm specializes in creating high-performance underwater cameras and lighting solutions tailored for marine research and exploration. Their product lineup includes a variety of imaging and lighting equipment, designed to operate effectively in some of the most challenging underwater conditions. DeepSea's technology has been employed in notable expeditions, including those exploring the Titanic wreck and the Marianas Trench. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their extensive range of products, which also includes testing services to ensure reliability and performance. With a dedicated team of 11-50 employees, DeepSea continues to advance underwater technology, serving a global clientele across various marine research initiatives.

23. Seafloor Systems, Inc.

• Website: seafloorsystems.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Shingle Springs, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: seafloor-systems-inc-

Seafloor Systems, Inc., founded in 1999 and based in Shingle Springs, California, specializes in hydrographic survey solutions. The company offers a range of products, including single beam and multibeam sonar systems, side scan sonar, and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). Their technology is utilized for underwater mapping, environmental monitoring, and various applications such as dredging and law enforcement. Seafloor Systems prides itself on delivering innovative products and comprehensive support services, ensuring that clients can efficiently conduct their hydrographic surveys. The company has built a reputation for quality and reliability, serving both government agencies and private organizations that require advanced underwater exploration tools.

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