If you’ve ever tried to connect your GoPro or DJI action camera to your phone or tablet while it’s underwater, you’ve probably noticed something frustrating โ the connection drops the moment the camera is submerged. Despite having built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, most action cameras become unreachable as soon as they go below the surface.
Why Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Donโt Work Underwater
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth rely on high-frequency radio waves, which are quickly absorbed by water. Even just a few centimetres beneath the surface, the signal can no longer travel โ especially in saltwater.
This means that your mobile device can no longer:
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Connect to your action cameraโs app
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Control recording or settings
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View live footage in real time
Learn why wireless signals donโt travel through water โ it all comes down to physics.
What the Camera Brands Say
Both GoPro and DJI action cameras use Wi-Fi to connect to their companion apps โ GoPro Quik and DJI Mimo โ via 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands. These connections work well above water but fail once submerged.
The Seavu Solution: Tethered Signal Transmission
Seavu solves the problem of underwater connectivity by physically relaying your action cameraโs Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signal to the surface โ where your phone or tablet can receive it just like normal.
The Seavu Seeker and Seavu Explorer kits use a three-part system:
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Receiver (built into the Seeker Mount or Explorer Housing):
Captures your cameraโs Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signal even when fully submerged. -
Tether Cable:
A rugged, marine-grade cable transmits that signal from the receiver to the surface. -
Transmitter (at the surface):
Rebroadcasts the signal wirelessly to your phone or tablet, allowing you to connect in real time via your cameraโs app.
This allows for full remote control and live viewing โ even while your camera is 7, 17, or 27 metres underwater.
Built for Real-World Use
Seavu Seeker Starter Kit โ Live view from camera mounted to just about anything
Compact, lightweight, and designed for hands-on use, the Seeker can be attached to extension poles, burley pots, or boat rails. Itโs the ultimate setup for recreational fishing, boat hull inspections, and training sessions at the pool.
Seavu Explorer Adventure Kit โ Live underwater footage with various fishing applications
Featuring a stabilised fin and modular design, the Explorer Kit is ideal for trolling, drifting, or anchoring. Itโs perfect for those wanting steady, high-quality footage in moving water or from the seafloor.
Works Where Others Donโt
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Relays 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth from your camera
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Compatible with GoPro Quik and DJI Mimo apps
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No plugs or ports connected to your phone โ fully marine-proof
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Compatible with newer cameras using Bluetooth 5.0+
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Future-proof design supports camera upgrades
Need a Direct Video Feed?
For professional use cases like film production, inspections, or long recording sessions, the Explorer+ Pro Kit โ Hard-wired video and power for professional applications provides a direct USB-C feed to a monitor, computer or capture card โ powered by fibre-reinforced cable.
Learn how DisplayLink video output works if you’re interested in connecting phones or tablets to larger displays.
Final Thoughts
Seavuโs systems are built for anyone who needs live underwater visibility โ whether youโre fishing, inspecting marine assets, researching ecosystems, or creating underwater content. With reliable signal transmission and app-based control, your GoPro or DJI camera finally works where it matters most โ beneath the surface.
Explore the full Seavu range: