There are probably as many methods of retrieving boats as there are people doing it. The only thing that really matters is that which ever method you decide to use (or methods), keep it fairly 'simple'. If it works, it works. Doesn't really matter how outlandish it is, sort of.
Using a 'snag-line' works in most instances if there's something to 'snag'. Rather push a boat in? Fine, do so. If you are worried about burning up the motor in that rescue boat, then that boat just isn't all that suitable for rescue work, is it?
Swimming after a boat isn't exactly the smartest thing in the world to do for several reasons. I'm sure you can think of a few of them. Think 'extremes', that isn't all that unlikely an occurrence, unfortunately. It's your 'neck', literally. You never know what someone may have thrown in that water. And in one place where I boat, I'm not thrilled with getting that water on the boat, much less -on- me!
- 'Doc


If you really get desperate, train a duck to retrieve.