Recording underwater impulsive noise data is an important aspect of mitigating its environmental impact and improving maritime environmental management systems. This paper describes the method used and results of the spatial monitoring of both the baseline noise level and the impulsive noise sources in the Port of Cartagena. An autonomous vessel was equipped with a smart digital hydrophone with a working frequency range between 10 and 200 kHz and a received voltage response (RVR) of, approximately, −170 dB re 1V/µPa. A GIS map was drawn up with the spatiotemporal distribution of the basal sound pressure levels by coupling the acoustic data with the vessel’s GPS positions to identify the sources of the impulsive noise of interest and their temporal characteristics. The loading of cargo containers was identified as the main source of impulse noise. This study is the first of a series designed to obtain accurate information on underwater noise pollution and its potential impact on biodiversity in the Port of Cartagena.

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The data recording of underwater noise is a key aspect for the prevention and improvement of management systems of maritime spaces. Thus, due to the presence of activities potentially generating impulsive noise, ports deserve special attention. This article describes and shows the results of the spatial monitoring of both the basal noise and impulsive noise sources present in port facilities. A vessel was equipped with a smart digital hydrophone with a working frequency range between 10 and 200 kHz and an RVR (Received Voltage Response) of, approximately, −170 dB @ 1 V/µPa. Coupling the acoustic data together with the GPS coordinates of the vessel, a GIS map with spatiotemporal distribution of the basal sound pressure levels was made, identifying the sources of impulsive noise of interest and its temporal characteristics. This is a preliminary step for the development of future studies on underwater noise pollution and its potential impact on biodiversity in the environment of port facilities, with the maximum guarantees possible.

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