Scattering a loved one’s ashes at sea bonds them with countless generations of those who have gone before to this final resting place. This eco-friendly option has a long, cherished history and may hold a special significance for those who have spent much of their lives on the water.

Options for burial at sea can include attended or unattended services presided over by a ship’s captain or a clergy member of your family’s choice. As with any voyage, services can take place year-round, according to weather safety conditions. Sea Burial Certifiedä funeral directors are suggested for this type of service, as the needs and logistics are quite different from funerals on land.

How It Works

Like any other service, burial at sea is best when taken care of by professionals with years of experience. Paying a bit more for your burial at sea experience will mean that the event will be seamless and truly a proper send-off. Safety is always top priority when on the water, and a reputable provider will always put the safety and comfort of your service attendees first.

United States Law requires that burials at sea take place, at least, three nautical miles off the coast of any State. Once at that point, family members are welcome to scatter the ashes on the outbound tide. A clergy member or the ship’s captain can provide a short service at this time.

Service providers will give your family a certificate after the ashes are scattered of your loved one’s final resting coordinates. This is a very important document, as visits to these coordinates can be just as powerful as a visit to a traditional gravesite. These visits can be arranged by the same company who provides the funeral service itself.

At sea, services are easily personalized for your loved one, to match his or her personality and reflect their love of the sea. An eight-bell watch or even cannon salute can be provided. Your party is then returned safely to shore. For scattering ashes at sea, no funeral director is required on the voyage.

Ash scattering services can be attended by anywhere from 5 to upwards of 400 people, or you can choose to have your loved one put to rest in an unattended service. The level of care and respect for your wishes and your loved one’s remains will not change according to the size of your service. The prices for these services vary by size and also by the port from which your voyage leaves. If you feel like this is a respectful and unique way to scatter your loved one’s ashes, feel free to contact us for more information.