Ocean Sonics: Shaping the future of underwater sound technology

For more than a decade, Ocean Sonics has been at the forefront of innovation in ocean sound monitoring. Based in Truro, Nova Scotia, the company has not only transformed traditional hydrophones into "smart" devices but has also set new standards in ocean tech solutions that are tackling global challenges like climate change and maritime security.

Ocean Sonics was born from a deep-rooted passion for sound and a desire to revolutionize underwater acoustic technology. As CEO & founder Mark Wood explains, “I’ve always been passionate about sound – it’s a hobby of mine. When I had the chance to work with sound in the ocean, I jumped at it.”

A hydrophone is an underwater device that detects and records ocean sounds from all directions. Traditional hydrophones, while effective, generate immense amounts of raw data, making it difficult to relay information from the ocean floor to the surface. Which is why Ocean Sonics pioneered the concept of the "smart hydrophone."

Unlike conventional ones, smart hydrophones process data at the sensor itself, enabling users to receive real-time, processed results instead of vast amounts of raw data. This innovation not only streamlines the data collection process but also allows users to customize the level of processing based on their needs. “Every time we make our products better or easier to use, people find more and more cool ways of using them,” Wood adds.

Ocean Sonics’ pursuit of innovation led to the development of a variety of groundbreaking products, including a newly launched sensor and a quiet acoustic buoy.

ALTA, a core component of Ocean Sonics’ icListen Smart Hydrophone, is a transducer traditionally sourced from external suppliers. However, rising costs and supply chain disruptions during the pandemic prompted the company to take matters into its own hands.

“We decided to make our own transducers,” Wood explains. “Now, we can proudly say that our main product is crafted entirely by Ocean Sonics, giving us more control over costs, quality, and production timelines.”

In addition to the ALTA, Ocean Sonics developed a quiet acoustic buoy designed for precise underwater measurements. Traditional buoys often generate noise, contaminating the sensitive recordings captured by hydrophones. Ocean Sonics' buoys are optimized for quiet operation. These buoys also support compliance with emerging international standards, such as ISO regulations for ship noise monitoring and underwater construction. Paired with Ocean Sonics’ Lucy software, these systems offer unparalleled capabilities for real-time data analysis and compliance reporting.

Ocean Sonics’ success on the global stage has been bolstered by support from programs like Invest Nova Scotia’s Export Development Program (EDP). The program facilitated the company’s participation in major trade missions and exhibitions, including Oceanology International in London and Shipbuilding, Machinery & Marine Technology (SMM) in Hamburg.

“These events are crucial for us,” Wood notes. “Being part of the Canadian pavilion not only reduces costs but also enhances our credibility, especially when establishing relationships with distributors.”

Trade missions also provide valuable networking opportunities. “There’s a network effect at these events,” says Wood. “You share a booth with other companies, and they direct potential partners your way. It’s a collaborative environment that’s hard to replicate.”

Ocean Sonics’ headquarters is in Truro with additional office space in the Centre for Port Innovation, Engagement and Research (PIER) at the Port of Halifax for their growing software team. Its proximity to Halifax, a hub for ocean tech innovation, offer unique advantages. “We’ve gone to several events at PIER and Centre for Ocean Ventures & Entrepreneurship (COVE). It’s nice to rub shoulders with like-minded people who understand the challenges and opportunities of working in the ocean tech sector,” says Wood.

Nova Scotia’s natural environment also plays a pivotal role in Ocean Sonics’ operations. Located near the Bay of Fundy, renowned for its dramatic tides, the region provides an ideal testing ground for underwater technologies – a setup proven to be invaluable for product development. “We can set up our equipment on the sand flats at low tide, test it in 12 meters of water, and then retrieve it when the tide goes out,” Wood explains.

As global interest in ocean health and security continues to grow, Ocean Sonics is well-positioned to meet increasing demand for advanced acoustic technologies. “The market is expanding,” Wood notes. “Our tools are critical for studying climate change and monitoring ocean health.”

One area of significant growth is the use of autonomous vehicles in ocean research and observation. Ocean Sonics’ sensors, designed to integrate seamlessly with these platforms, are paving the way for more cost-effective and efficient data collection. “Sending a fleet of autonomous underwater vehicles equipped with our sensors would allow for comprehensive data collection at a fraction of the cost and risk of traditional methods,” Wood explains.

Looking ahead, Ocean Sonics aims to continue innovating by expanding its product line, exploring new markets, and continuing to collaborate with partners worldwide. “We’re excited about the future,” Wood concludes. “With the growing importance of understanding and protecting our oceans, the opportunities for innovation are limitless.”

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