In all this I have to agree with Amos, the reason, I spent six years as a submariner in the RN. He describe the dynamics of an emergency surface very well, as a planesman I was often involved in the operation of surfaceing the boat, our station being next to the ballast control operator and a few feet from the officer of the watch position. Prior to surfacing an examination of the local area was always carried out using both periscopes and passive sonar equipment. For sonar to hear something there needs to be a noise source, the stuff you see in the movies regarding sonar is usualy complete tosh. Visibilty and sea state would also affect the use of the periscope, remember that they only have a foot or two of clearance in normal operation. in any kind of chop thats quite a lot.

As for people doing things in designated submarine exercise areas, I have seen acts of stupidity (no navigation lights at night for example)that makes you wonder how they are allowed out the house alone let alone take a vessel to sea.

Sledge