Question

Do you descend down the line or free descent on a boat dive?

Answer 1

Depends on the operation and conditions. Shallow dives and drift dives are a free descent. Deep dives in the Gulf I usually lead a group and we descend down the anchor line so everyone stays together. I go first and watch everyone come down. that way if someone has a problem equalizing or something I can stop the group and handle the problem then resume the descent. If drift diving everyone goes in the water at the same time with a backroll so that the group doesn't get seperated.

Answer 2

Yes it depends on the dive site. From an anchored boat (especially with waves and current), I like to use the anchor line. On night dives I'll mark it with a strobe. In low visibility I'll tie off my wreck reel, so I'll be sure and find way way back easily. With a drift dive, even though I can descend fast, I'll go under last and watch my divers.

Answer 3

I always follow the direction of the boat captain/divemaster.  It usually depend on conditions, especially current and depth.

I watch many divers descend, adjust buoyancy and then get with their buddy.  I always descend with my buddy.

Answer 4

Free descend using the line as my reference unless there is current and then I  will use the line.  I generally descend about 5-10 ft and then flip head down so I can swim and control my decent.  I used to descend on the line but traffic and the lack of control made me stop.

Answer 5

Depends on the type of diving and Depth. If drift diving you will free descend. Shallow dives like the Reefs off Key Largo you will free descend. If you diving a deep dive to a wreck or something you will descend on a line.

Answer 6

Free descent. A line on the way up for decompression.