David Ledet, 63, Ernest Williams, 69, James Wallingsford, 55, Anthony Hartford, 55, Lawrence J. Warren, 36, dead, 8 others still missing after lift boat capsizes miles from coast near Port Fourchon, Louisiana

The hope is that the 12 missing people have found air pockets to survive inside the Seacor Power, most of which is submerged in 50-foot seas about 8 miles (13 kilometers) off the Louisiana coast.

Walcott, who has also worked on lift boats, echoed that frustration about conditions. He said the boats are not designed for travel in rough weather.

The U.S. Coast Guard has said Seacor Marine, the boat's owner, confirmed the vessel left Port Fourchon with 19 crew members on board about 1:30 p.m. April 13, and distress signals were sent about three hours later when it capsized. At the time, the Coast Guard reported 80 to 90 mile per hour winds in the area, 7-to-9-foot seas and limited visibility.