There is a difference between getting onto an airplane for an exciting destination or rest and relaxation and jumping out of the airplane with a parachute. But you might not see that difference.
i can say that a relative who wanted to see “big fish” in Mexico left behind 4 children and destroyed a family who 10 years out is still filling the void he left behind including some now very maladjusted children.
Not sure how much risk there is in "fish watching".
But agree with one of your points. When my wife told me she was pregnant with our first son I told her I was through skydiving. And I found the sport entirely enjoyable and safe so long as one engaged their brain.