Hammocks in Submarines: A Historical Perspective and Modern Reality
Do submarines have hammocks? This question has intrigued many as the idea of a hammock comes to mind when one thinks of relaxation and comfort. Historically, hammocks have been a part of naval life, but with the evolution of submarine design and technology, their use has evolved.
Historical Use of Hammocks in Submarines
Before World War II, the use of hammocks in submarines was quite common. However, after the war, there was a decline in the use of hammocks, with bunks becoming the standard. In the older submarines, hammocks continued to be used by some crew, with the HMS Tribune being a prime example. Commissioned in 1939, this submarine still had hammocks that were in use for at least some crew members.
Submarine Bunks - From World War II to Today
In the days of diesel-powered submarines, the sleeping arrangements were quite unique. Most enlisted personnel slept in the After Battery, which could accommodate a staggering three layers of sleeping racks. These racks were covered by a mattress inside a cover and each bunk was equipped with a curtain and light, providing a sense of privacy and comfort, albeit somewhat limited. The hinged trays, 6 inches in height, offered protection during routine activities. The limited headroom made it uncomfortable for tall individuals, and the sleeping arrangements adhered to a strict pecking order based on seniority.
Officers and Chiefs had shared spaces in the Forward Battery, and even the Captain had his own private space. British boats, such as the ones visiting Hong Kong, did still retain hammocks, though they did not look particularly comfortable.
Modern Submarine Life
Today, modern submarines have evolved to prioritize space efficiency over creature comforts. With the design thinking of submarines closely resembling that of spacecraft, the primary focus is on accommodating machinery and systems. This means that hammocks have largely been phased out in favor of bunks or berthing racks.
Hammocks, despite their comfort and ease of use, take up more space. In a confined environment like a submarine, where every inch of space is precious, this becomes a significant drawback. Rather than adding unnecessary space-consuming amenities, the priorities lie in maximizing the functional aspects of the submarine's design. Machinery and systems take precedence, which leaves limited room for luxuries like hammocks.
Submarines, therefore, transitioned to efficient sleep bunks. These bunks provide the necessary comfort and functionality while adhering to the stringent space requirements of undersea environments. The shared spaces and bunk arrangements are a reflection of the close-knit community that submariners form, working tirelessly to maintain the integrity and readiness of their submarines.
For those interested in visualizing these historic sleeping arrangements, a simple Google search or a visit to platforms like Quora with the query "submarine bunks" can reveal numerous images and insights into this fascinating aspect of naval history.