Did you try a different browser to see if it's a Safari issue, or if it's a problem with the iPad?
I can't tell you whether or not it's youtube. Whenever I tap a link in Safari, the app opens, because it's installed on my iPad, and I don't face this problem.
Is your iPad up to date?
It maybe some compatibility problems between YT and iPad. Did you check if the youtube app suites your needs?
I always use safari to watch YT videos. I'll see if everything goes dandy.
I feel that the app is faster and smoother than using Safari to watch videos. I've used both.
Video quality just sucks in the app, and buffering takes longer than safari. I've been watching videos in safari and I have never had any problems until now.
Video quality can be adjusted in the app.
1. Tap on the 3 dots on the top right.
2. You get an option to change quality.
I just deinstalled the app and watched youtube videos on two different browsers without problems.
Well it doesn't always crash on every video though.