How loud is a blue whale?
A blue whale is about 188 dB, with a typical range of 180–188 dB. Measured underwater (dB re 1 µPa). Roughly 120–127 dB in air terms – underwater decibels are not directly comparable.
Underwater sound levels use a different reference pressure (1 µPa instead of 20 µPa) and water has a much higher acoustic impedance than air, so underwater decibels are roughly 61–62 dB higher than in-air decibels for the same sound intensity. In air-equivalent terms, a blue whale would be around 126 dB.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
More recordings elsewhere
- Blue Whale B call @ 5X by MBARI_MARS – CC BY 4.0 (freesound)
- Polka-Dotted Blue Whale by Kevan Paul – CC BY-SA 3.0 (jamendo)
- blue whale D calls **audible only with appropriate speakers** by MBARI_MARS – CC BY 4.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels is a blue whale?
About 188 dB, with a typical range of 180–188 dB.
Is a blue whale louder than a jet engine?
Underwater decibels cannot be compared directly with in-air figures like a jet engine's 140 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.