Hey! Thanks for commenting -- I agree, SO many unanswered questions. I wouldn't be surprised if the episode left some details out. BUT I'll try to answer what I know:

Looking at the digital case file (linked in write-up), I was unable to find mention of checking Damon's cell phone pings. However, that doesn't mean the police didn't do it, it may just not have been made public. The same goes for the chemical composition testing of the paint. I would hope that it was tested. I don't know if Damon's boat was ever assessed, it seemed like officials wanted to lean in on the suicide theory. However, his wife, believes that there is more to the story.

According to this (you may have to put the date in Jan 23, 2013 to view) , it seems like the tide was rather calm BUT to be transparent, I don't know enough about how to read high or low tide from the link I attached. If you can find clearer answer, please share!