But reefs aren't 1" thick and filled with a lot of athmospheric-pressure air and meat, are they. Nor would reefs be pushed under water if something run over them. Nor are subs made of solid rock
There's no question that ramming would damage the attacker, but it was most definitely considered a worthy risk. The end result would normally be a crumpled bow, but not a sinking.
Nor was the outcome always fatal for the boat.
See this one:
http://www.uboat.net/allies/merchants/ships/2236.html
Quote:
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On 6 Oct, 1942, U-333 fought an epic battle with HMS Crocus (K 49) about 60 miles southwest of Freetown. The U-boat was rammed twice and a gun duel was fought out on close distance. Both vessels suffered damage and sustained casualties. The boat lost three men dead (including the IWO) and several men wounded, including the commander. U-333 was heavily damaged and limped back to base with help from a replacement WO from the Milk Cow U-459. Cremer then spent three months in a hospital.
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