How to intercept?

[Zosimus]

Originally Posted by desirableroasted

Since nothing, other than a task force, moves at more than 9kt, racing off at flank speed is a fool's errand. Especially since "East" is vague and since (in GWX at least) ships and convoys can and do change course.

If I can reasonably reach an intercept point within 4-5 hours, without turning my mission inside out, I will. Can't hurt, right? But banging off 10-12 hours a full flank.... tried that many times. Not worth it. And, yes, I am an ace at trigonometry, but the game simulates uncertainty very well.

The point is to conserve fuel so as to have as long a patrol as possible. More time on the lake, more targets, more kills. Zipping around every time BDU burps is the fastest way home with nothing in the bag.

First of all, I have intercepted and sunk merchants that were moving at faster than 9 knots so I'm going to call a big BS on the first claim.

Second, you're right that convoys can and do change course–all the more reason to intercept them as soon as possible. Every extra hour you take is an increased chance that they've changed course and thrown your calculations off.

Third, if you're using a scientific calculator in the game, then imo you're cheating. You should make your intercept with the same tools that real u-boat commanders had to use. Accordingly I don't see what an expert at trig has to do with it.

Fourth, assuming you find a convoy that is moving at 7 knots (not uncommon) then surely if you find yourself behind it you sail out and around it at full speed. You're not really trying to do an end around on this baby at 10 knots, are you?!

Finally, I've never had fuel as a consideration. You usually sail off, sink a bunch of ships, and sail back without using even half your fuel. As long as your normal day-to-day operations is ahead one-third, you're fine.