The tropical cover story had a practical cost once the force entered harsh Atlantic weather. Emerald's crew reached Canada short of usable clothing and needed replacements from the Red Cross. Heavy seas swept away boats and depth charges and effectively destroyed the cruiser's Fairey Seafox. The losses followed from preparing ships and crews for the climate implied by the disguise instead of the conditions they actually encountered.
Notable Point · 21:30-22:14
Atlantic weather exposed the cost of the tropical disguise
Heavy seas stripped boats, depth charges, and Emerald's Seafox from the tropically prepared force, while crews reached Canada short of usable clothing.