They were doing all they could to avoid throwing a fellow man overboard. But they had no ideal what they were up against. Finally the fear of losing their own lives made them ask for forgiveness before reluctantly throwing Jonah overboard. This resulted in the raging storm ceasing. Notice that there obedience eventually lead to their offering a sacrifice to God.
Obedience is always better than sacrifice.
Sometimes obedience might look foolish, but if it's God's desire it will work out well. Praying always brings us back into the presence of God . Distance is never a barrier. God is always waiting for us. His mercy never ceases.