I was surprised to learn the boat was left in the ocean. I can't think of one reason why this would be a good thing. I read early on it was to "mark the spot" which is unnecessary imo.
Maybe clues from the boat wouldn't lead to the boys but I think anything learned from the incident could help bring understanding and closure to a terrible tragedy.
I guess this is where the difference of opinion lies: as others have said before, the most crucial and vital areas of understanding are patently obvious: do not traverse a dangerous inlet in a small boat when a storm is approaching and have at least a radio and basic safety equipment in your boat in all conditions.
These are the only areas of "understanding" that have any real value.
What the boys were intending, how much fuel they may have expended, where exactly they drowned...I doubt these could be determined with certainty...when the boat was found more than 48 hours after the "event" occurred. These details aren't even particularly pertinent IMO to a recovery operation for the bodies....this is the open sea! Currents, tides, marine life all add unknown variables. I just dont know what "clues" from that boat have any REAL value in this particular case.
And personally, I cannot even see how such "clues" could provide closure. One might speculate that a certain amount of gas meant they were indeed heading for the Bahamas. But it would be a guess, only speculation, and no definitive assessment could close the debate of what really happened for the families. They were seen by a witness heading out to sea as larger boats with experienced captains headed IN...to avoid the approaching storm. THAT is just about the last detail that can ever be close to confirmation.
Any so-called "clues" could only provide further speculation and rumor ...not proof. No one is going to be able to examine an overturned boat and say..."Without a doubt, this boat capsized at this precise location as the boys were trying to turn back, wearing their life jackets, etc etc."
There's no comfort or closure to be found from that boat and its "clues."
The parents know they had wonderful sons, who led happy though short lives and died doing something they loved. Others will take away valuable safety lessons from their loss.
That's where the families comfort and closure lies IMO.