I used a hookah set for the first time last season for
maintenance and underwater
inspection. Overall very pleased. I have around 50 ft of hose and a 50 ft extension(not used the extension yet).
My set up is a
deck mounted
compressor connected to the boat's
service batteries. The compressor pressurises a floating buffer air tank and then there is a line to my demand set.
I was surprised how easy life is under the
boat once you get neutral buoyancy sorted out
I did consider building my own but in the end, decided I didn't have enough knowledge of the compressor and pipework standards required to ensure uncontaminated air, so bought from a reputable supplier.
I also considered
buying a
scuba set but decided against because I didn't want to have the concern of recharging the
tanks with unknown suppliers in pretty
remote places.
Finally I would not recommend that anyone uses these devices unless : -
1. They are a confident swimmer
2. They have had some
training
3. They fully understand the
depth constraints on diver and of the compressor
The world changes in a heartbeat if you snag your mask and it fills with water or you snag your airpipe and lose your mouthpiece or you have a coughing fit - even if you are just 6ft beneath the surface. Knowing what to do really matters.
Would I make the same decision again? Yep, I am delighted.