Google is adding panoramic underwater views to Google Maps. Maps users can now get access to some of the most stunning underwater images at any time. Google says this is just another step towards their goal of providing “people with the most comprehensive, accurate and usable map of the world.” This update to Google Maps adds six of the world’s living coral reefs. Users can feel like they are swimming with some of the most beautiful underwater scenery without strapping on an oxygen tank.

Google’s underwater views use the same technology as Street View, so navigating around the reefs should feel incredibly familiar to most Google users. Google partnered with The Catlin Seaview Survey to get these high quality images. They used a special underwater camera known as the SVII to capture the photos.

Google features reefs from the Philippines, Hawaii and Australia. In all there are six views available, three of which are in the Great Barrier reef. You can see a sea turtle, a manta ray and see the reef at sunset. In Hawaii, you can join snorkelers in Oahu’s Hanauma Bay and pass over Molokini crater. The Philippines brings an amazing view of some ancient boulder coral.

This a great chance to get to see underwater in a way you never thought possible. Google is clearly working to make Google Maps the most detailed mapping application available. Hopefully, they expand on this and add more underwater locations in the future.

Source: Google Blog