No sympathy or slack for this couple from me.
IMO, they are pathologically immature, irresponsible, inexperienced, and self righteous, selfish, and entitled. They have made terrible choices for their children, IMO.
They deserve every single criticism of their foolish and immature choices, IMO.
I consider that their level of immaturity and irresponsibility rises to the level of child neglect. I do think DCF should be involved here. They clearly need outside evaluation and recommendations before they subject their minor tiny kids to their "adventure dreams" again, IMO. And I say this as someone who has lived all over the world, visited many countries, and now has a few kids. These are not "rational" adventurers. They are brash, irresponsible, and immature. Bad situation for tiny children. Their kids aren't middle schoolers or teens learning navigation and other lessons. They are kids in DIAPERS, with unique and fragile childhood needs. That they can't see this, or make excuses for their decisions, is inexcusable. They deserve all criticism, IMO.
I'm fine with them pursuing their "dreams" on the open ocean for themselves. I draw a big line where they subject such small children to their selfish and irresponsible desires.