Assessing sound exposure from shipping in coastal waters using a single hydrophone and Automatic Identification System (AIS) data

► We analysed spatial distribution of underwater ship noise sources in Falmouth Bay, UK. ► New method combines continuous passive monitoring with single hydrophone and AIS data. ► Intermittent ship noise raised 24-h SEL by 14.4 dB (9-day median, range: 0.01-1 kHz). ► Commercial vessels within 20 km and local small boat traffic most significant sources. ► Method can be applied to noise assessment in Marine Protected Areas.