But, what about being on a recreational dive boat with 11 other people where everyone is gearing up shoulder to shoulder? Does a 7' hose get in other people's way and make a tangled mess?)
Only if you and/or the other people(s) "make a tangled mess." Hose length is irrelevant unless you're a wanton slob draping you hose willey-nilley where ever you please... and the short-hosers are doing the same thing.