Is surface-supplied diving necessary for underwater ship husbandry?

Surface-supplied diving is typically not necessary for underwater ship husbandry, which can often be performed effectively using other diving methods, including air-supported scuba diving, depending on the specific tasks and conditions involved.

Ship husbandry tasks, such as cleaning, inspection, and minor repairs, generally occur at shallower depths where standard scuba systems can be sufficient. These operations frequently do not demand the extended capabilities provided by surface-supplied systems, such as prolonged air supply, increased operational safety, and the ability to work at greater depths or in varying current conditions.

Surface-supplied diving is usually reserved for more demanding operations, particularly those that involve deeper work, longer durations, or hazardous environments, where the advantages of a tethered supply of breathing gas and better communication can significantly enhance safety and efficiency. Therefore, underwater ship husbandry can be safely and effectively accomplished without the need for surface-supplied systems in many scenarios.