Burial at Sea – Ash Sattering – Questions
Since we have a burial at sea / ash scattering business, we always get lots of questions such as: Is it legal? Do people get sea sick? Are there certain locations to scatter? Can you really place complete bodies in the ocean?
This page will answer many of these questions as well as a host of others we have received. First we we address some common general ones that almost everyone asks and go into some more detailed ones. If you have a question that is not answered, please do give us a call.
Probably the most common question that we receive. Of course it is legal or we would not have a business that offers this service. The following it taken from the California Funeral board website, it states that is legal to; Scatter at sea, at least 500 yards from shore. This also includes inland navigable waters, except for lakes and streams.
Getting Seasick of a Boat?
If you’re not prone to seasickness, consider yourself fortunate. For those who are, it’s not an experience you’ll want to repeat. If you know you’re susceptible, it’s a good idea to take simple precautions—for your own comfort and for those around you.
That said, most passengers do not experience significant discomfort. Our yachts are larger and designed for stability, and much of the time is spent in the calm, protected waters of the harbor, where conditions are typically smooth and gentle.
if you are scattering in Southern California, then bad weather is seldom an issue, that is one of the reasons that many of us choose to live here. In all the years we have been performing sea burials, we have only had to cancel or postpone charter a handful of times.
Most of our yachts are completely enclosed which will keep the rain off you. The ocean may be a bit rough at times, but since yachts are only in the open ocean for a limited time it is generally not an issue. At some locations, it is even possible to scatter within the confines of the harbor, eliminating the need for an ocean visit.
Can I arrange to have Clergy on the Yacht?
Having clergy on board is entirely the family’s choice. Many families prefer a more informal gathering, but others find comfort in including a religious element.
If you would like clergy present, you may already have someone in mind. If not, we can assist in arranging a clergy member. We work with individuals from a variety of denominations and can help coordinate accordingly. Typical clergy honorariums for a sea burial are generally in the range of $300–$400.
Emotional State on the Yacht?
This is a very interesting question. You may be surprised to learn that on the vast majority of sea burials the mood is very uplifted. I think there are probably three reason for this;
- Mant times the passing was a few weeks in the past. It could even have been months or even years. On one sea burial the cremains have been sitting in the closet for 30 years.
- Being on the ocean is so serene and beautiful. It just lends itself to a much more uplifted spirit.
- There is no body present and no casket. This tends to create a less somber atmosphere than at a church service with a casket.
Do I need a permit to scatter ashes at sea?
Yes. Families must obtain a Permit for Disposition of Human Remains (VS-9) from the county health department before the service. Detailed information about getting a permit this can be found on this site. Most of the time the families will just request that we get one.
Can I scatter ashes directly from a pier, dock, or beach?
No. California law (§ 7117) prohibits scattering from piers, bridges, beaches, and inland waters. It must be done offshore by boat or aircraft. This is the case even if the end of the pier is over 500 yards from shore.
Do I need a permit to scatter ashes at sea?
Yes. Families must obtain a Permit for Disposition of Human Remains (VS-9) from the county health department before the service. Detailed information about getting a permit this can be found on this site. Most of the time the families will just request that we get one for them.
Can multiple family members scatter ashes together?
Yes. Many ceremonies allow family and friends to take turns scattering a portion of the ashes, often accompanied by flowers, petals, or prayers. In addition to this, cremains – say husband and wife – may be co-mingled (with the permission of the family) and then scattered at the same time.
Can we include flowers or other items in the scattering?
We encourage this. Fresh flowers and biodegradable wreaths are permitted. Non-biodegradable items (plastic, ribbons, metals) are not allowed under EPA guidelines.
How long does a typical ash scattering service last?
Generally trips are 1–2 hours in duration, allowing time for travel offshore, the ceremony itself, and reflection on the return trip. It depend on the harbor you are scattering from. As well, some families choose to extend their charter and have additional time for family bonding.
Can we request military honors during an ash scattering?
Yes. Veterans may be honored with a ceremonial flag presentation, Taps, and other recognitions if arranged in advance. We would make appropriate arrangements for each family that is eligible. The family will need to supply us with a copy of the deceased DD214 military discharge form. The honors presentation takes place before the yacht leaves the dock and generally before the family even boards.
Can ashes be divided between land scattering and sea scattering?
Yes. Families often keep a portion of the cremated remains in an urn, scatter some at sea, and sometimes use other memorial options (keepsake jewelry, scattering gardens, etc.). The appropriate permit would need to be arranged ahead of time. This is usually handled by the funeral home.
How soon after cremation can ashes be scattered at sea?
Once the cremation is complete and the disposition permit is issued, scattering can take place at any time, depending on weather, scheduling, and family readiness. Sometimes however families do prefer to keep the cremains at home for a while until they feel comfortable letting go.
Full Body Burial at Sea Questions
Is full-body burial at sea legal?
Yes. Full-body burial at sea is permitted under both U.S. Navy regulations and EPA guidelines. The body must be prepared according to federal requirements and the burial must take place at least three nautical miles offshore in water at least 600 feet deep. When we perform the burial we always use much deaper than the minimum, as well the body is weighted.
Who is allowed to have a full-body burial at sea?
Any U.S. citizen may request full-body burial at sea. Most often people thing this is just an option for veterans, but that is not the case. Civilian full-body burials can also be arranged with licensed funeral providers and properly equipped vessels.
What special preparations are required for a full-body sea burial?
Bodies must be prepared in a way that ensures they sink quickly and permanently. This often involves a weighted shroud, metal casket bands, or drilled caskets as per EPA and U.S. Navy guidelines. We have done many civilian burials with shroud as well as assisted the military with casket preparation. We have produced a video on the military casket preparation.
How do families participate in a full-body burial at sea?
For Navy burials, families are NOT present — the ceremony is conducted by the Navy, and families receive photos and certificates. For private civilian full-body burials, families may attend onboard if using a properly licensed vessel and funeral provider. Because the family often wishes to attend we have done burials on our vessel for military personnel.