[jester]

Another factor one should think about if you followed the shattered fleet scenario.

Fleets or task forces are almost like a living being. Each vessel or vessel class is an important organ if you will.

Again, lets use Jutland for another example. The destroyers conduct a screening operation like the imfamous "Death Ride" or like was done with Taffy III at the Battle of Leyte. They turn and attack a superior force/screen/delaying action. And are decimated. (We can also use the sea portion of the Battle of Okinawa) the means of decimation is the GMs choice.

But, the convoy be it troops or supplies is left vulenerable and left to their fate.....every vessel for its self. This can also be said for larger more vulnerable vessels. Because without a destroyer screen to protect from submarines or aircraft your carriers and battleships and even cruisers will be highly vulnerable. They make for the nearest port that provides refuge.

Now, the submarine has won the day. Did the destroyers sink all of the submarines? Or are they still lurking out there? Your vessel can take the risk, then again do they have the fuel? Did they sustain damage? They can't take many more hits. Did they loose a lot of crew in the action? Did signifigant members of the crew desert once they reached land?

Plus, pre 2000 there were ALOT more non combat vessels like fleet oilers and other supply ships that could fill the scenario of a vessel stuck in port. Pre 2000 a good number of our capital vessels were oil burners thus there was a requirement for fleet oilers which would be defenseless in a battle and have to flee or seek safety in a port.