The guttural thrum of a boat engine may be a prelude to a thrill-packed day on the water, but it’s not music to everyone’s ears. Excessive boat noise is such an issue that Transport Canada is looking into the best ways to curtail it.
How do I know if my boat is too noisy?
If people have to raise their voices to be heard when your boat drives by at speed, it’s probably too loud, according to Muskoka-based organization Safe Quiet Lakes. They recommend testing your boat’s sound level by using a decibel meter—you can buy one online or download an app, such as NIOSH Sound Level Meter (iOS) or Decibel X Pro Sound Meter (iOS, Android). Make sure the decibel scale is set to A and the speed to slow.
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Start by taking a reading from three feet behind the transom with the boat idling. The proposed limit for this stationary measurement is 88 dB (AS) (SAE J2005). Next, take a reading from shore. As the boat passes by (at any distance), it should create less than 75 dB (AS) to meet the proposed standard (SAE J1970).
How can I make my boat quieter?
If you have an exhaust diverter system, keep it permanently disengaged and on quiet mode. If you have thru-hull exhaust, look into installing a muffler ($500–$1,500 per engine, not including installation). Gibson Performance makes an easy-to-install muffler ($980), which the company claims will make your boat compliant with the 88 dB (AS) standard without compromising power. A third option is to redirect the engine exhaust through the propeller or below the waterline. Costs will vary depending on your existing engine and exhaust configuration.
The unforgettable cottage sound that triggers nostalgia
Last year, Transport Canada launched a survey to determine what Canadians think the best option is to manage noise from pleasure craft engines. The most popular option was introducing performance standards with decibel limits for both operators and manufacturers. Among other reasons, it’s the only plan that realistically addresses excessive engine noise emissions from both new and existing vessels.
This article was originally published in the August 2023 issue of Cottage Life.
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