USS Surf (SP-518)

Surf (Steam Yacht, 1898) 1217051801

USS Surf (SP-518) was a patrol vessel that served in the United States Navy during World War I. Originally built as a private motorboat, the vessel was acquired by the Navy in 1917 for service as a patrol boat in the coastal waters of the United States. Throughout its naval service, USS Surf performed a variety of tasks including patrol duty, convoy escort, and surveillance to protect the American coastline and harbors from enemy submarines and saboteurs.

Service History

The USS Surf was commissioned in 1917, shortly after the United States entered World War I. The vessel was part of a larger effort by the Navy to bolster its coastal defenses using privately owned vessels that could be quickly converted for military use. USS Surf was assigned to the 2nd Naval District, operating primarily in the waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.

During its service, USS Surf conducted regular patrols, ensuring the safety of merchant vessels traveling in and out of American ports. The patrol boat was also involved in laying and maintaining anti-submarine nets, a critical task given the threat posed by German U-boats during the war.

Design and Construction

The USS Surf was a wooden-hulled motorboat, typical of the civilian vessels pressed into military service during World War I. It was powered by a gasoline engine, which provided a modest speed suitable for patrol duties along the coast. The boat was armed with small caliber guns and depth charges for defense against submarines.

Post-War Service and Decommissioning

After the end of World War I, the need for coastal patrol vessels like the USS Surf diminished. The boat was decommissioned from the Navy in 1919 and returned to its owner. The post-war history of the vessel is not well-documented, and it is unclear whether it returned to private service or was scrapped.

Legacy

The USS Surf (SP-518) represents an important chapter in the history of naval warfare, highlighting the use of civilian vessels for military purposes during times of conflict. The boat's service during World War I underscores the diverse strategies and resources employed by the United States Navy to ensure the nation's security.