Battles no. Wars yes. I believe after the battle of Thermopylae, the Greeks retreated from their homes into the water and won by their Triremes being smaller and nimbler on the waves. The giant Persian ships could not maneuver as well and got stuck. Granted, the Spartans had to build their magnificent city-state again as she was razed, her ground salted, but the Spartans won at the end. That told, as I stated in my comment just before this one, I concur with your sentiments; tis better to never, ever abandon ship.

True.

However, those retreating might be ready to spring a trap.