Google unveils first underwater 'Street View' of Great Barrier Reef

Google's popular Street View maps have descended beneath the ocean surface, with the launch of the world's first 3D mapping of the Great Barrier Reef.

Researchers Catlin Seaview Survey have joined with Google to create the database, which allows people to virtually dive the World Heritage Area.

The site will also log how the reef currently looks to compare its state after threats like cyclones or global warming.

Catlin Seaview Survey Executive Director Richard Vevers said researchers used a special camera to collect hundreds of thousands of images from along the Queensland coastline.

Vevers explained "the camera used for the survey is something that was specifically designed for this project

"It allows us to take full 360 (degree) images every three seconds as we're travelling along reef environments."

The Great Barrier Reef is the latest addition to Google's 3D maps, which already allow virtual dives of other reefs around the world.

The images can be accessed through Google Mapsand have been recorded from dozens of reef locations.

Vevers added “they can go jump in the water, go on a virtual dive and see how different the reef is along the 2,300 kilometres.”

Google spokesman Shane Treeves hoped it gave people across the world a chance to experience the natural wonder, adding “to be able to Street View underwater to a place where very few people can visit allows people to understand how beautiful these locations are, not just here in Australia but all across the world.

"All you have to do is drag your peg man and you can swim virtually underwater from your own home to explore 360 degree images of these locations."

Click here to view the Google mapping.

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