Chapter 354 Going to France For Real This Time
The journey from the Port of Calcutta to the Port of Toulon spans approximately 5,320 nautical miles, a formidable distance that the French Pacific Fleet has been steadily conquering. Having covered 3,500 nautical miles to reach the Suez Canal, the fleet, led by the impressive IFNS Napoleon, has been making good time, traveling at a steady speed of 15 knots.
The sea conditions have been favorable, and the crew, skilled and efficient, have ensured a smooth passage thus far. Daphne, accustomed to the grandeur and luxury of royal life, has taken the journey in stride, though the monotony of the sea travel has given her ample time to think.
Standing at the ship's railing, she is joined by her brother Francis. Together, they watch as the fleet crosses the Suez Canal.
The Suez Canal started its construction in the year 1798 when Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the civil engineer Bouchard to construct a canal that would connect the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea, allowing ships to bypass the lengthy and perilous trip around the southern tip of Africa. It was completed in 1812 and has been used by merchant ships in European nations.
Of course, in order to recoup the investments made by the investors, a ship passing through the Suez Canal would have to pay a toll fee, which is calculated based on the ship's tonnage, type, and the nature of its cargo. This revenue stream has proven to be substantial, not just covering the maintenance and operational costs of the canal, but also contributing significantly to the local economy.
For the French Pacific Fleet or any other French Naval Fleet, however, since the French were the owners of the canal, they were exempted from paying the toll fees. This was a significant advantage as it reduced the operational costs for the French Imperial Navy.
However, the construction of the Suez Canal was not without its challenges and controversies. The project, spearheaded by Napoleon Bonaparte, was an engineering marvel of its time but came at a high human cost. It is estimated that the lives of around 30,000 workers were lost during the construction of the canal. The harsh working conditions, combined with a lack of proper equipment and medical facilities, resulted in a high mortality rate among the labor force.
The workers, drawn from various parts of the world, mostly Middle East and North Africa, toiled under the scorching sun, digging through the sandy and rocky terrain to create the canal. Diseases such as malaria and cholera were rampant, and many workers succumbed to these illnesses.
Now, the French are seemingly considering the need to expand the Suez Canal to accommodate future demands and larger ships. This contemplation has come in light of the increasing size of merchant vessels and the global surge in trade.
Francis could see it making progress along major points in the Suez Canal, they are engineers and surveyors meticulously assessing the existing infrastructure.
"How long would it take for us to cross the Suez Canal, brother?" Daphne asked.
Francis hummed aloud, pondering for an answer.
"The Suez Canal is 80 nautical miles long, and we are sailing at a speed of 15 knots, so it would roughly take us about 5 to 6 hours to traverse the entire canal under normal conditions," Francis calculated
Daphne nodded, taking in the information. "Good…this is good."
"You really are eager to return home, Daphne," Francis noted, picking up on his sister's anticipation.
"Yes, I am," Daphne admitted. "Aren't you excited to return home and see mother and father?"
"Of course, I'm eager to see our parents but I keep it to myself," Francis said.
"What do you mean by that?" Daphne shot a curious glance at her brother.
"Nothing, let's just return to our quarters."
***
Six hours later, the French Pacific Fleet crossed the Suez Canal, exiting at the northern end and entering the Mediterranean Sea. They sailed westward to reach Toulon. The distance between two points is 1,700 nautical miles and as for how long it would take to cover this distance, the fleet would require a bit over four days of travel, maintaining their speed of 15 knots.
Four days later, the French Pacific Fleet was welcomed by the French Mediterranean Fleet headquartered at Toulon. The French Mediterranean Fleet, comprising a variety of vessels including destroyers, battleships, battlecruisers, and support ships, was ready and waiting to greet their counterparts from the Pacific.
As the IFNS Napoleon and its accompanying ships approached, a series of communications were exchanged, ensuring a coordinated and smooth entry into the port.
The Port of Toulon, a major naval base for the French Navy, was bustling with activity. Crew members on other ships stopped their work to catch a glimpse of the Pacific Fleet, a sight not seen in these waters for quite some time. Onshore, naval personnel and civilians alike gathered to witness the arrival, the port's usual business momentarily taking a backseat.
Daphne and Francis, standing once again at the ship's railing, could feel the palpable excitement. The journey, spanning over 5,320 nautical miles, was finally coming to an end. They could see the French tricolor waving in the wind, and the familiar terrain of their homeland brought a sense of relief and contentment.
As the IFNS Napoleon docked, the crew swiftly got to work securing the ship and preparing for disembarkation.
Meanwhile on the bridge deck of the IFNS Napoleon. Admiral de Richebourg and Captain Waldeck stood before the Imperial Prince and Princess and bowed.
"Your Imperial Highnesses, it has been our pleasure to transport you safely from New France to France... We have now arrived at our destination, and the crew is in the process of preparing everything for your disembarkation," Admiral de Richebourg expressed with a formal tone.
"Sadly, this is where we will part, Your Highnesses, for we have to return to our area of operation," Captain Waldeck added. "The IFNS Napoleon and her crew will remain at your disposal until you have safely disembarked and all your belongings have been transported to your designated accommodations."
"Thank you, Admiral de Richebourg, Captain Waldeck. You and your crew have performed admirably," Francis replied, nodding his head in acknowledgment. "Please extend our gratitude to every member of the crew for their hard work and dedication."
Daphne chimed in, "Yes, thank you. This journey, though long, has been comfortable and safe, and for that, we are grateful."
The Admiral and Captain exchanged glances, their stoic expressions softening slightly as they acknowledged the praise. "It has been an honor serving you, Your Highnesses," Captain Waldeck said.
With that, the officials excused themselves, leaving Daphne and Francis alone on the bridge deck.
As the siblings prepared to leave the ship, the activity in the Port of Toulon continued to buzz around them. France had arranged for their transportation to the Versailles, ensuring that the final leg of their journey would be as seamless as the rest.
"Finally, we are at home!" Daphne exclaimed.
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