Some French coastal islands remained unraided even though the Royal Navy could have attacked them easily. Both the islanders and British crews understood the imbalance of force. The ships instead bought fresh fruit, vegetables, and water from the inhabitants. Purchasing those supplies close to the blockade reduced demand on the longer route from a British or neutral port.
Notable Point · 27:05-28:06
Local purchasing sustains the blockading fleet
Royal Navy ships sometimes left weak French islands untouched and bought water, fruit, and vegetables from their inhabitants instead.