Naval inspections are perhaps among the most costly and risky types of technical checks. Setting up scaffolding, sending crew into enclosed or suspended spaces and operational interruptions can result in significant loss of time and money.
In this context, the use of inspection drones brings a major step change: increased efficiency, reduced human risks and access to highly accurate data in much less time.
Inspecting the tanks within a ship’s hull is a critical yet complex task. Under current class society regulations, at least 30% of each tank must be inspected every 2.5 years to ensure the absence of corrosion or structural damage. The number of tanks varies by vessel type, some ships may have 40 to 50 tanks, while others, such as oil carriers, may have fewer but larger tanks, making inspection even more challenging. In all cases, the effort involved remains substantial.
What does drone inspection in a maritime context mean in concrete terms?
Autonomous or semi-autonomous systems drones allow inspections to be carried out inside ships, in tanks or around the hull without interrupting operations. The equipment can be provided with specialized payloads such as:
High resolution RGB camera
Ultrasound Thickness (UT) sensor
LiDAR
For detailed visual captures, even in poorly illuminated areas
For measuring the thickness of metal walls and identifying areas affected by corrosion or cracks
For generating 3D models of the structures inspected, useful for comparative analysis, planning and reporting
These technologies work together to provide a clear and complete picture of the structural integrity of the ship, with a level of detail not achievable by conventional methods, in the same time frame.
Where are drones most commonly used in maritime inspections?
Each type of ship comes with its own structural challenges. Among the most frequently inspected areas are:
- Bulk (dry cargo) vessels: cargo tanks, sidewalls and bulkheads
- Oil and chemical tankers: piping systems, stiffeners, frames, cofferdams
- LNG carriers (liquefied gas carriers): protective membranes, double-walls, ballast tanks
- Containerships: hull, especially areas subject to impact or abrasion
- Any type of ship: hard-to-access technical compartments, lightless spaces, empty tanks or areas where human access is limited
What’s the added value of a drone inspection?
Reduced risks for staff
Teams no longer need to enter confined spaces or work at height. Inspections are performed remotely, with complete control over the environment.
Reduced inspection time
A two-person team can complete the inspection of ten cargo tanks in just a few weeks, a process that would have traditionally taken several months.
Direct cost savings
Eliminating scaffolding, rope access and external crews can reduce direct costs by over $500,000.
Access to comparable and archivable data
Data collected by LiDAR and UT sensors is accurate, replicable and easily integrated into digital models. This means a clear history of structural condition and a solid basis for decision-making.
The uptake of drone inspection technologies is a solution that aligns with the real needs of maritime operators: predictability, speed, safety and cost control. For fleets sailing in an increasingly competitive economic environment, such solutions are becoming essential to maintain technical and commercial standards.
At Skyline Drones, we provide complete UAV inspection services tailored to the maritime industry, from mission planning and equipment operation to the delivery of high-accuracy technical reports. We operate advanced drones such as Elios 3, equipped with RGB, ultrasonic thickness (UT), and LiDAR sensors, and adapt each mission to the vessel type and client objectives.
The Elios 3 proves its value not only in maritime operations but also in confined and GPS-denied environments, such as sewers and underground infrastructures, where visual data and pointcloud mapping are essential. Explore one of our recent use cases in this field Sewer Inspection and Pointcloud Mapping Using Elios 3.
We also use UT-equipped drones to collect reliable corrosion and thickness data from metal structures, without exposing inspectors to hazardous environments. Learn how we integrate this capability into our workflow in our article Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UTM) with Drones.
For professionals looking to integrate these tools into their own operations, La Orizont provides a range of UAV systems and accessories, including Elios and specialized payloads. Browse our selection at La Orizont’s website and discover the tech that powers safer, smarter inspections.
If you are interested in such services or want to find out how they can be concretely applied in your operations, you can always contact us for a technical discussion or a customized offer.
