Bathymetric & Ocean Current Survey –
Khasab

Khasab Port Redevelopment – Marine
Geophysical & Current Investigation

GIS Mappers was engaged to deliver a comprehensive marine survey for the Khasab Port Redevelopment project in Oman. The scope included bathymetric mapping, geophysical sub-bottom profiling, and ocean current measurements. This study was essential to support planning and design for infrastructure upgrades within Khasab Port and the adjacent Khor Qada coastal zone.

Ocean currents were measured using RDI Teledyne ADCP profilers at four stations: L1 and L2 in Khasab Port, and L3 and L4 in the Khor Qada area. Current speed and direction data were collected at multiple depths (2 m to 13 m) and recorded at 2-minute intervals. Analysis showed surface currents were generally faster than bottom flows. At various stations, directional flows ranged between 10° to 270°, with localized variability near the seafloor.

A geophysical side scan sonar and shallow seismic survey were used to investigate the seabed for potential hazards and buried features. Key findings included sedimentary seabed composition, scattered patches of fine sediments, submerged manmade debris, and occasional sunken vessels. No basement rock was detected within the acoustic penetration limits, indicating compact sediments dominate the area. Further borehole testing was recommended to validate sub-seabed composition.

Bathymetric data was acquired using an Odom Hydrotrac 200 kHz echo sounder. A bar check established a sound velocity of 1520 m/s, which was used throughout acquisition. Tide correction was applied using data from a Valeport Tide Gauge. Processed using HydroPro, the bathymetric chart was produced at 1:1000 scale. The survey showed shallow seabed morphology with irregular profiles and exposed areas near the breakwater and creek mouth.

This multidisciplinary survey by GIS Mappers provides essential geospatial and oceanographic information for safe and sustainable port redevelopment at Khasab. The results assist stakeholders in hazard mitigation, structural design, and marine environmental management.