I love how people are pulling facts out of their asses.
I'm sorry this doesn't agree with your romantic ideas of the age of Sail.
Granted, Britian is not my strongest point, but the same goes for France. French sailors were issued a full uniform; In fact, the 'marine' of the new patch is simply a French sailor. Though, the shako is officially incorrect for this period (12-15) - They should have a hat not unlike the British marines, with an eagle plate. The French sailor class with her random weaponry and half-clothing fits the period before 1805.
That being said, I love the addition of the patch, so personally I don't really mind. I might get a reskin to give the French sailors their proper hat, though.