The paper presents the results of the noise propagation analysis in ship structures tested in a number of AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply) vessels. Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) based on numerical model developed specially for the purpose of this numerical investigation were conducted. This numerical model enabled the analysis of both the structural elements and the acoustic spaces. For the detailed studies 47 points fixed at various ship locations were selected. Prediction results with use of the numerical model were compared with the experimental results carried out in six identical AHTS vessels. Experimental studies were performed in accordance with the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolution A.468 (XII). As a result one presented a comparison of the model analysis and experimental tests results.

Study of the sea noise has been a subject of interest for many years. The first works in this scope were published at the turn of the twentieth century by Knudsen (Knudsen et al., 1948) and G. Wenz (Wenz, 1962). Disturbances called “shipping noise” are one of the important components of the sea noise. In this work the results of an experimental research of underwater noise produced by a small ship of a classic propulsion are presented. A linear receiving antenna composed of two orthogonal components was used in the investigation. Identification of the main sources of acoustic waves related with the ship was achieved. In addition, the intensity of the wave was measured. The research was performed in conditions of the shallow sea.

The impact of the noise radiated from merchant ships on marine life has become an active area of research. In this paper, a methodology integrating observation at a single location and modelling the whole noise field in shallow waters is presented. Specifically, underwater radiated noise data of opportunistic merchant ships in the waters of Zhoushan Archipelago were collected at least one day in each month from January 2015 to November 2016. The noise data were analyzed and a modified empirical spectral source level (SSL) model of merchant ships was proposed inspired by the RANDI-3 model (Research Ambient Noise Directionality) methodology. Then combining the modified model with the realistic geoacoustic parameters and AIS data of observed merchant ships, the noise mappings in this area were performed with N×2D of Normal Mode calculations, in which the SSL of each ship was estimated using the modified model. The sound propagation at different receiving positions is different due to the shielding effect of islands and bottom topography. The methodology proposed in this paper may provide a reference for modelling shipping noise in shallow waters with islands and reefs.