Exploring the deep

Canna Harbour is the only fully operational commercial harbour operated by the National Trust for Scotland and one of its responsibilities is to ensure safe navigation for all vessels using the port. A key requirement is to have an accurate understanding of the depth of the harbour and a sea chart to aid navigation.

The last official survey of the harbour on Canna was carried out in the 19th century using a lead and line.

Our recent survey used slightly more advanced techniques! With the help of Inverness-based company Caintech, a new chart has been produced bringing our understanding of what lies beneath the surface of the harbour into the 21st century.

Using an overhead drone and a remotely operated surface vessel, the survey took three days to complete and caused quite a stir with visiting yachts as the unmanned yellow boat weaved its way amongst the boats in the harbour.

A trailer-based control room managed the whole operation from the safety of the pier and we were able to watch the mapping process in real time.

The new chart is now on display in the Harbour Office on Canna and further information can be obtained by contacting the Harbourmaster on cannaharbour@nts.org.uk