Rapid Profiling of Marine Notches Using a Handheld Laser Distance Meter

A rapid, single-user profiling method for rocky shores is described. The Leica Disto D8 handheld laser distance meter measures distance up to 100 m and inclination in 360u. It automatically calculates horizontal distance and vertical elevation. Memory storage accommodates data for 30 measurement points, allowing easy plotting of shore profiles. This technique allows even inaccessible, dangerous, and overhanging cliff faces to be evaluated faithfully and within minutes. It is a major improvement over standard methods that often involve risky coasteering and climbing. Examples are given from marine notches in Thailand.