Submarine methane discharge manifests in different forms and occurs on different spatial scales. Physical, biological and geochemical processes interact at the seafloor. Comprehension and description of such complex systems requires a suite of different sampling and in situ measurement technologies. As an example, investigations carried out at a submarine mud volcano are described. Multi-method investigations are challenging in respect to handling, technical inter-operability as well as synchronization and integration of the data obtained. © 2008 IEEE.