FAQ
1. What makes Reef Smart maps different from other dive maps?
Reef Smart maps are the most detailed and accurate maps on the market. We use photogrammetry to create 3D models, which are precise digital twins of the site. These models can be embedded on your website, improving SEO and sales conversions. Our digital maps can also be viewed in AR and VR. We also use these models to drive traffic from our website to yours via website redirects.
2. How many dive sites are in your catalogue?
We have mapped over 500 dive and snorkel sites in more than 20 destinations — the largest and most detailed catalogue of its kind.
3. What formats do you provide?
We deliver maps in 2D and 3D, with AR and VR capabilities, along with printable wall art, briefing charts, waterproof handheld cards, and weatherproof shoreline signage.
4. How long does it take to develop a custom mapping project?
Custom mapping projects depend on the number of sites mapped. It takes a two person team one or two dives to collect the data necessary to complete a photogrammetric model, depending on the complexity of the site. Processing of the data is completed in our offices after data collection. Processing approximately 10 sites and creating designs for physical product printing can take up to two months.
5. Can I license existing maps?
Yes. If your dive sites are already in our catalogue, you can license them immediately, giving you a fast and cost-effective way to access Reef Smart maps.
6. How do Reef Smart maps improve diver safety?
They provide clear pre-dive briefings that show hazards, suggested routes, depths, and points of interest, improving confidence and safety. Our maps also integrate key species that may be encountered during your underwater experience.
7. What if my dive sites aren’t in your catalogue?
If your sites are not yet mapped, we can create a new custom project for you. This doesn’t have to be exclusive — you can choose between licensing options or ownership models depending on your business goals.
8. How do maps help increase bookings?
By embedding interactive maps on your website, you improve SEO rankings and provide the immersive content that convinces divers to book with you instead of competitors.
9. What’s included with a license?
Licensing includes access to Reef Smart maps plus future improvements and updates, so you always have the most current and professional materials.
10. What are “future improvements”?
These may include species updates, revised versions of maps, enhanced imagery, or additional video assets as we continue to expand the catalogue.
11. Can I resell Reef Smart maps?
Only under a Full Exclusive Ownership agreement. Standard licensing and Shared Ownership do not include resale rights.
12. Do you offer exclusivity?
Yes. Depending on the licensing model, you may secure regional exclusivity, ensuring competitors cannot use the same maps in your area.
13. How do 3D maps work?
Our 3D photogrammetry-based models can be viewed online, embedded on websites, and experienced in AR and VR for immersive marketing.
14. How much does a mapping project cost?
Pricing varies depending on the number of sites and whether they’re mapped in 2D or 3D. We typically scope projects around 10 to 15 dive sites (with a combination of 2D and 3D maps).
15. Can Reef Smart maps be updated over time?
Yes. Licensed maps come with updates as part of your agreement, so your content always reflects the latest improvements and corrections.
16. What’s the typical scope of a project?
A common example is 15 dive sites, with 3 developed in 3D and 12 in 2D, but we can scale up or down as needed.
17. How do maps help train staff?
Maps are excellent tools for standardizing staff briefings, helping new instructors or guides quickly learn and deliver professional dive site presentations.
18. Can maps be co-branded with my shop or resort?
Yes. We can add your logos, colors, and branding to both digital and physical materials.
19. Do divers really care about maps?
Yes — divers want clarity and safety before entering the water. Digital-native divers also expect immersive, visual content when planning trips.
20. How do maps support marketing campaigns?
Shops and resorts use our maps in social media posts, brochures, websites, and even trade shows to stand out with professional, visual assets. Immersive content, such as 3D maps are more likely to be shared on social media.
21. Do you work with liveaboards?
Yes. Liveaboards benefit greatly from professional briefing tools and marketing assets, especially across multiple destinations.
22. Can Reef Smart maps be used offline?
Yes. Reef Smart produces maps in numerous physical formats, such as briefing charts, wall art and waterproof handheld cards - the latter can provide an additional revenue stream for dive operators and resorts. We also create weatherproof signage, which is perfect for installing adjacent to the access points of shore-accessible dive and snorkel sites.
23. Can Reef Smart maps be integrated with my existing dive shop website?
Yes. Our digital maps can be seamlessly embedded, boosting your SEO and helping convert more online visitors into bookings.
24. Do Reef Smart maps work for snorkelers as well as divers?
Absolutely. Our catalogue includes both dive and snorkel sites, making the maps valuable tools for a wider audience. Our species cards are also very popular with snorkelers.
25. How do Reef Smart maps give my business an edge over competitors?
By offering professional, visually immersive tools that most shops don’t have, Reef Smart maps help your business stand out and attract divers looking for clarity, safety, and a premium experience.
26. How do updates work?
For licensing and Shared Ownership, updates are included annually as part of your agreement. Full Ownership clients don’t receive updates unless negotiated separately.
27. Do you work with government or tourism boards?
Yes. Reef Smart has partnered with tourism authorities and training agencies to map entire regions for divers and snorkelers.
28. Can Reef Smart maps be integrated into booking platforms?
Yes. Maps can be embedded on websites to drive bookings, improve SEO, and convert traffic into paying customers.
29. How are maps created?
Our team uses DPVs mounted with numerous cameras and lights to collect tens of thousands of images of the dive site. These images are processed into a photogrammetric 3D model, which can be embedded on your website and viewed in AR and VR.
30. How can I get started?
Start by checking if your dive sites are already in our catalogue. If they are, you can license them immediately. If not, contact us to begin a custom mapping project, which takes around 3 months to deliver a finished product.
