Chasing Dory Explore

The Chasing Dory Explore is a compact and affordable underwater drone designed for enthusiasts eager to explore beneath the water’s surface. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the GLADIUS MINI, the Dory offers a user-friendly experience without compromising on essential features.

Weighing approximately 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs) and measuring 18.8 cm (7.4 inches) in width, the Dory is notably portable, making it convenient for travel and spontaneous adventures. The drone is tethered to a Wi-Fi buoy via a 15-meter (49-foot) cable, allowing users to control it through a smartphone app within this range. This setup ensures a stable connection while exploring various aquatic environments.

Equipped with a 1080p Full HD camera featuring an f/1.6 aperture and a 100° field of view, the Dory captures clear and vivid underwater footage. Dual 250-lumen headlights illuminate dark or murky waters, enhancing image clarity. Additionally, an in-built colour restoration algorithm ensures that photos and videos maintain natural hues, compensating for the colour distortion commonly experienced underwater.

The Dory is designed for simplicity and ease of use. Controlled via the Chasing Dory app, available on iOS and Android devices, users can manoeuvre the drone, adjust settings, and view live footage directly from their smartphones. The app also offers features like image editing with 19 filters, social media sharing, and live streaming capabilities. The Co-Play function allows one user to pilot the drone while another manages the camera, fostering collaborative exploration. With a battery life of up to 35mins at full throttle and 4hrs with the lights off in still water.

While the Dory offers impressive features for its size and price, it does have some constraints. The Wi-Fi range is limited to 15 meters, which may restrict exploration in larger bodies of water. Additionally, the drone relies on thrusters for vertical movement, lacking a ballast system; however, if the battery depletes, the Dory will float to the surface, facilitating easy retrieval.

The Chasing Dory Explore stands out as an accessible entry point for underwater exploration. Its compact design, user-friendly controls, and robust imaging capabilities make it an appealing choice for hobbyists and casual explorers. While it may not meet the demands of professional applications, its performance and affordability offer significant value for personal use and recreational adventures. RRP £579

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