For Newbies

I haven't seen this posted since 2005 on another site, but once you get your snorkel, keep it raised at all times while on the surface. If you have to crash dive the snorkel being already up will allow you to keep your diesels running an extra 3 to 4 seconds. That means your U-boat will still be pushing 16+ knots as your bow dips below 19 meters. You will rocket through the 20s and rapidly attain 35 meters in record time. In fact I do this every time I wish to do a sound check - as soon as the diesels switch off below water I cut all engines and continue to glide down without wasting my batteries. Then I blow tanks once to re-engage my diesels.

It is also important to keep your snorkel up in heavy weather as this will keep your electrics from kicking in every time a huge wave engulfs your boat.