Seascape character types are distinct areas that are relatively homogenous in character. They are generic in nature in that the may occur in different areas but share broadly similar combinations of geology, ecology, bathymetry, human influences and perceptual and aesthetic attributes. SCTs provide a framework for analysing seascape change since many influences and pressures affect seascapes with similar character in similar ways.

Seascape Charater Types were extracted from the OSI 1:250,000 coastline dataset. GIS and visual analysis combined with field work determined the individual seascape character types. Predominant datasets used were bathymetry, topography, geology, coastal land use and wave climate. Analysis and mapping used QGIS v3.8

Regional Seascapes Character Assessment (2020) project was carried out by Minogue and Associates on behalf of the Marine Institute.