Launch Deployment
A launch secured in its davit
A launch being lowered to the rail
The launch is lowered to the boarding deck (rail) by the davit operator. Two lines are secured (fore and aft) to the rail. Two frapping lines are held by deckhands to maintain hook control.
Passengers board the launch and transport gear. Each passenger wears a lifejacket and hardhat. A passenger gets on the bow and another on the stern. They untie a line from the hook to prepare for release.
The launch is lowered into the water. The passengers release the hook and the davit operator lifts the hooks out of harm's way. The deckhands throw off the lines and the launch is ready to survey.
The passenger prepares to unhook the launch
The launch is ready to conduct hydrographic operations