[Bullethead]

A lot depends on where you hit them. Ships only sink from hits that let in water. If all your hits are above the water, then they ain't gonna sink, or at least not rapidly.

Quite often, however, ships that show heavy damage are technically sinking. Remember that the current color of the dot and the name of the current damage status are just that--current values. Neither of these things show trends. Many times, but not always, ships that are heavily damaged will have water coming in faster than they can pump it out. They will often eventually go to sinking status as a result. However, you might not see that happen.