To effectively reduce noise on small, high powered vessels such as tug
boats, it is necessary to conduct a concerted noise control effort. Fo
r optimal improvement, the program must be carried through all phases
of the design, construction and testing. This paper describes a progra
m instituted by the owner and design agent early in the procurement pr
ocess to control habitability noise on a large tractor tug. The owners
, dedicated to maximizing crew comfort and performance while recognizi
ng the benefits of on-deck communications, have found from prior exper
ience that without appropriate treatments the tug would have unaccepta
bly high noise levels. Noise goals were established and treatments wer
e selected, both in terms of acoustic and non-acoustic impacts. Detail
designs were developed for floating room treatments, genset and diese
l exhaust vibration isolation, and absorptive materials, Later rests r
evealed that the noise goals had been met. This paper describes the pr
ogram from initiation through acoustic trials, provides insights into
some problem areas and makes recommendations for future designs.