[propbeanie]

That is part of the rub, ain't it? Not being seen, while seeing them good enough to report... You also have to have a report from your crew of "Ship spotted!" three times, for three separate ships, and have targeted and locked at least one, for the report to go through. You can check the NavMap and verify how many icons you have for "ship spotted", unless you have map contacts turned off. To do the report in as "safe" of a manner as is possible, you should determine their course first, so that you can attempt to parallel theirs, to an extent. You do not want to show a broadside to them, since it makes it much easier for them to spot you. Periscope up though, max zoom, and "lock" on a ship while attempt to bird-dog them, but not to get too close - just enough. I will sometimes open the Captain's clipboard while attempting to do this, and as soon as you see the "broken ship" icon mend together, you are able to send a Contact Report. Then back off and await the reply, if you care to. This can also be done while submerged, but you generally have to be at Radar Depth for that, so that you are able to Xmit.