T&T: line cutting and nets, scuba versus hose

[Chester Brummett]

Reading these reports caused me to consider one aspect of the recovery
operation, that I did not see discussed in detail

I am a fairly experienced scuba diver, carry four tanks on board, stowed in a
speical design box in the aft cockpit.  Also have a 60 foot hose so that for
any bottom work, I do not have to get out a tank.

Reading Phil's experience.  I understand that he stated his preference to use
scuba for the recovery operation.

My thought process, I think I would have chosen to use the hose attached to
the on-deck tanks.  I would think it would be preferred to not have to deal
with the added 40+ pounds in the heavy seas--harder to get on and off the
boat, and the added mass would (I think) make it more difficult to hold
position on the pitching boat while cutting the trash and not bang into
things.

Yes, I would have the hose to deal with and keep from getting tangled in the
trash; but with scuba on, you would have the tank and BC to keep from getting
tangled. I can imagine the trash tangled in the tank regulator; and in these
conditions possibly very difficult to untangle.

Phil stated that he had the tank bang against the hull a few times; the tank
and BC would absorb the shock rather than your back.  And of course, with a
BC, you can "fine tune" your bouyancy.

Hard to imagine having to go overboard in these conditions, I will admit that
I never have (and hope never to).  I do plan to add a helmet as discussed.
Head injury would be fatal.

Trade-off; as stated, if it had been me, I think I would have gone with the
hose.

Chet
DeFever 44+5, Cygnet
Daytona Beach