Why the Blitz damaged fewer active warships than expected

How many Royal Navy ships were damaged by the Blitz?

Fewer than might be assumed because active warships spent little time in harbor, though ships already under repair remained exposed.

The popular image of ships concentrated in port does not match the Royal Navy's actual operating rhythm. The Blitz struck particular harbors on particular days rather than maintaining continuous pressure on every base. Active ships were often at sea, reducing the number available as targets. Vessels already immobilized for repair were consequently among those most vulnerable to additional bomb damage.