A broad-band underwater acoustic transducer that uses thickness vibration mode, derived from a disk type piezoelectric ceramic, has been proposed and designed for DVL (Doppler Velocity Log). Three different types of acoustic transducer were evaluated with respect to the transmitting voltage response, receiving voltage sensitivity and bandwidth of the transducer. The effect of the acoustic impedance matching layer and backing layer is discussed. The results demonstrated that three matching layer with lossy backing layer is the best configuration for underwater transducer. The trial underwater acoustic transducer with three matching layer has a frequency bandwidth of 55%, maximum transmitting voltage response of 200 dB and a maximum receiving voltage sensitivity of -187.3 dB.