Ultimately, the correct form is to roll out. All I was saying is that one should not just step off facing away from the boat because I’ve seen someone bash their head and some someone else mentioned clipping the tank. I dove for a little over fifteen years (~12-27) and I never had an issue rolling out like I was taught to do.
From what I’ve understood, there’s a difference between rolling backwards, forwards, or stepping off in a big leap.
Rolling forwards off the boat will accelerate your tank in the direction of your head. As your Buoyancy Control Device (the vest you wear) is never as tight that it could keep the tank in check, it will hit your head as soon as you complete your roll.
Stepping out from the boat is completely reasonable thing to do, as long as you take a big step and the landing area below is clear. Some diving boats have special planks so the risk of hitting the boat is minimal in high waves, but you can also do it from the swimming platform. The only important thing is to hold on to your mask and look towards the horizon. This will ensure you don’t roll forward but enter the water straight as a candle.
