When to end patrol?

[seafarer]

I have to admit that I too don't do the mid-patrol refit thing. Whenever I run out of torpedoes or low on fuel, whichever comes first, I rtb and end patrol.

I know there were instances of refueling and re-provisioning during patrols, but such things seem pretty rare from my reading of WWII operations, so I tend to play with the realism in mind.

But, if you want to keep refitting and heading out, it's up to you. Then, as to when to end the patrol, again, it's purely a matter of personal preference.

[Rockin Robbins]

As soon as possible after completing the first assignment.

Just as soon as your message board says "accomplished" head back to home to collect on renown, medals, promotions and sub upgrades! It's not enough to get the job done. You want to get credit!

I've never not had the opportunity to shoot all my fish to and from that assignment. Returning with a couple of torpedoes doesn't hurt your payoff.

[-Pv-]

I do one refit on the way out when a fuel calculation proves I cannot reach my 1st objective and return.
I will do a refuel on the way back if weather degrades my return calculation.
Too many refits degrades your ability to attack the enemy later in the war with more effective boats, weapons and crew.
-Pv-

[CCIP]

I do as much as my fuel allows, and I'll only "refit" for fuel replenishment on the outbound leg, not torpedoes. Almost all my patrols last 5 weeks - that's how much, on average, my fuel lasts at standard speed.