[abel29a]

I've successfully outrun Destroyers on the surface on many occasions in GWX. Even in relatively good weather and with some moon it is possible to outrun DD's. First thing, point your strern at them, then give small rudder corrections to port or starboard to slowly alter course away from their course. They will usually bracket your suspected location with starshells, but if you manage to avoid being in the lit area placing yourself on the "dark side" gives you an even greater edge for outrunning them.

Of course, your success rate depends on the experience of the crews manning the escorts, but more often than not you can slip away. And you should always try, unless the DD is close enough to fire accurately at you, because the benefits of staying surfaced far outweighs the slim chance of getting hit by a lucky shot.

As for the surfaced attack - it works like a charm in GWX. Just maintain low profiles, decks awash and low speed as mentioned above. Also, if you want to make a surfaced getaway it's nearly impossible to attack from inside the convoy, as the searchlights will illuminate you. Attacking from either flank with a separation of 600m+ will allow you to manouver away after launching the attack, with the added benefit of allowing for a parting stern shot while escaping.