The long Siege of Gaeta ends when on July 18 when the Neapolitan garrison capitulates after the French siege artillery breaches Gaeta's walls; a major setback for the allies.

Stuart and Smith, by marching south, had missed a chance to intervene in the siege or to land at Naples and attempt to overthrow Joseph's government.

The surrender frees Masséna's force for operations in Calabria.

In Stuart's defense, his expedition has successfully accomplished its main objective, which is to prevent any early invasion of Sicily.

He has also lengthened the revolt, which the French will not bring under control until 1807.