I don't really understand the risks of a voyage like that, and I don't know what the parents have done to prepare for the risks. Maybe the mom is a pediatrician. Maybe they had really bad luck. So I am unable to pass judgment.

There are people who'd tell you you're a fool for: joining the army; going camping; rock climbing; owning a gun; not owning a gun; riding the bicycle; living in the country; living in New York; etc. The list goes on. People are afraid of risks, and different people are afraid of different kinds of risks.

Me, I've sailed small boats on a lake in good weather. I wouldn't go anywhere near open seas.