Getting through the canal is tricky, risky, but certainly doable. If I want to cut down time, and if i make the choice to go through "der kanal" I follow several simlpe rules.
1. Travel on the surface only at night, but if a DD IS spotted, then get under those waves.
2. Dive and stay down during the day time, and stay quiet. Rig the boat for silent running.
Takes time, but if you're careful, you can easily come out the other side in one piece
