I often struggled with the issue of safety boats. On one hand as a solo paddler you would like some immediate assistance in case of life-threathening emergencies. Alternatively having a safety boat does come with huge compromises on the adventure and learning value of an open sea crossing.
I speculate that the concept of 'safety boats' was probably introduced by tight-ass military men into the sports last time. If these boats are for emergencies, then a doctor and medical equipment should be onboard, and an evacuation route charted out with timings. If not, I really can't figure out its real value in expeditions except to hold supplies.
A large volume kayak can hold supplies for weeks. With proper planning and training, unsupported expeditions had been responsible and safe. Andrew was said to be responsible, and I suspect he had a freak accident.
I guess the first question that everyone have to convince themselves - and their loved ones - before an expedition would be "Am I (and my loved ones) prepared to accept it if things go wrong? "
If yes, by the grace of the sea you will return.
