cost of scattering ashes at sea

How Much Does It Cost to Scatter Ashes at Sea?

Scattering ashes at sea has recently become the most popular form of burial at sea, with the cost of scattering ashes at sea varying based on the size of the group and the type of service chosen. It is a meaningful and symbolic way to bid a final farewell to your loved ones, allowing their spirits to be set free in the ocean.

The cost of scattering ashes at sea differs based on the group size: 1-6, 7-12, 13-18, and 19-25. You can select from our many charter boats for scattering ashes.

You can choose from various biodegradable options, such as traditional urns, or more unique choices, like flowers, seashells, and turtles, to place into the ocean for a sea burial.

Although the rules for scattering ashes at sea are less strict than those for full-body burials, you may still need a funeral director to handle the cremation burial at sea. In California, the Burial at Sea Funeral Company can arrange everything for you, ensuring the process is smooth and compliant with regulations.

When Did People Start Scattering Ashes at Sea?

The practice of scattering ashes at sea links intrinsically to the history of cremation, a tradition that gained prominence in the 19th century.

While cremation itself began to take hold in the 1800s, thanks to the pioneering work of Professor Brunetti in Italy who invented the first cremation chamber, the concept of sea burials extends back through centuries and across many cultures, long before cremation became widely accepted.

Ancient Origins: Sea Burials Before Cremation

Sea burials have been a significant ritual for many civilizations throughout history. Ancient cultures held the ocean in high regard, viewing it as a sacred and mysterious realm where life began and where the spirit could continue its journey. This reverence for the sea led to various burial practices that predate the scattering of cremated ashes.

The Vikings, for example, were renowned for their elaborate sea burial ceremonies. They would place the deceased on boats laden with personal belongings and often set the vessel ablaze, allowing it to drift out into the sea. This dramatic farewell symbolizes the soul’s passage to the afterlife and the individual’s reunion with nature and the divine.

The Vikings were not the only ones to perform sea burials; other seafaring cultures practiced similar traditions, viewing the ocean as a fitting final resting place for their loved ones.

Historical Notables and Naval Traditions

Historically, sea burials were also common among sailors, explorers, and naval personnel. Sir Francis Drake, the famed English sea captain and privateer of the 16th century, was reportedly buried at sea in his full suit of armor off the coast of Panama.

This act cemented the tradition of maritime burials for those whose lives were intrinsically tied to the sea. For centuries, the ocean has been the final resting place for countless sailors lost to shipwrecks and naval battles, further entrenching the cultural significance of sea burials.

The Royal Navy practiced sea burials regularly, especially during long voyages where returning the deceased to land was not feasible. Sailors were wrapped in sailcloth, with their bodies weighted down by cannonballs or other heavy objects to ensure that they would sink and not wash ashore.

This ritual honored those who perished at sea and reflected the great solemnity of the occasion. The ship’s captain often said a few words or recited prayers before committing the body to the deep, marking the sea as the sailor’s final resting place.

The Transition to Modern Practices: Cremation and Ash Scattering

With the development of cremation in the 1800s, the ways people could honor the deceased began to change. As cremation gained popularity, particularly in the 20th century, the concept of scattering ashes in meaningful locations, such as the sea, emerged as a natural evolution of the ancient sea burial practices.

The shift from traditional sea burials to ash scattering also brought new cultural and environmental considerations.

Ash scattering ceremonies allowed families and loved ones to commemorate the deceased in a more personal and symbolic manner, often accompanied by words, prayers, music, or rituals that held special significance. For many, the ocean represents eternity, freedom, and the cyclical nature of life, making it an ideal place for such ceremonies.

How Popular is Scattering Ashes at Sea?

In the United States, traditional burials are steadily being replaced by cremation and alternative burial practices, including ash scattering. According to the 2020 NFDA Cremation & Burial Report, the cremation rate in 2020 was 56%, significantly higher than the burial rate of 37.5%. This shift is partly due to greater flexibility in religious practices around burial and the cost of scattering ashes at sea being more affordable compared to traditional burials.

As cremation rates rise, so do the options for what to do with cremated remains. Many people are also driven by a desire to reduce their environmental impact, leading to a growing interest in eco-friendly burial options. As a result, more individuals are choosing to scatter ashes at sea, allowing the natural forces of wind and water to guide their loved ones to rest on the ocean floor.

Do I Need Permission to Scatter Human Ashes?

Yes, you do need permission to scatter ashes at sea. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a general permit under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) to authorize the transportation and burial of human remains at sea.

In the United States, laws regarding cremation and the scattering of ashes vary by state. Each state has its own regulations, which means that the legal rights and processes surrounding the scattering of ashes can differ depending on your location.

Generally, state laws govern how to obtain permits, transport cremated remains, and choose a final resting place.

Here are some key points from the EPA’s guidelines:

• Prepare human remains for burial at sea according to the requirements of the relevant civil authorities.
• Scatter cremated human remains at least three nautical miles from land, regardless of water depth.
• Use only biodegradable materials for any flowers or wreaths.

Planning a Scattering Ashes at Sea Ceremony

When preparing for scattering ashes at sea ceremony, there are several important factors to consider:

Transportation:

You’ll need a boat to carry you at least three nautical miles from the shore for the scattering of ashes. Look for water burial services in your preferred location to arrange transportation.

Be sure to ask if the service includes securing the necessary MPRSA permit and providing GPS coordinates for the location. Also, consider the number of guests attending the ceremony when selecting the boat.

Weather:

One common issue with scattering ashes at sea is the wind blowing ashes back onto guests. It can be difficult to predict wind direction on the ocean or a lake, so bringing a simple tool like a ribbon attached to a stick can help gauge the wind. Take a moment to assess the wind direction, and wait for a calmer moment if necessary.

Make sure everyone stands upwind so the ashes blow away from the boat and guests. Scattering the ashes closer to the water can also help reduce the chance of them being caught by the wind. However, some blowback may be unavoidable.

Mind the weather forecast, as rain or high humidity can cause the ashes to clump, making them harder to scatter. Rough waves and strong winds can also complicate the ceremony.

Check the Condition of Cremains:

Before heading out to sea, open the urn to check the condition of the cremains. Ashes may settle or clump over time. If they aren’t loose enough to scatter, gently break apart any clumps with a spoon or similar tool.

Ensure the urn is easy to open but has a tight seal to avoid accidental spills. Keep in mind that the ashes may be inside a plastic bag, so having scissors on hand could be helpful.

Be Prepared for the Journey:

When traveling by boat or plane, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the conditions. Boat decks can be slippery, so wear no-slip footwear and bring layers to stay warm, as it’s often colder and windier at sea.

If you or any attendees are prone to seasickness, take the necessary medication beforehand. If children are attending, ensure they are carefully monitored and take safety precautions to avoid any accidents at sea.

Why Do People Scatter Ashes at Sea?

Scattering ashes at sea is a growing trend that reflects a variety of emotional, spiritual, and practical considerations. The practice is rooted in a desire for connection—both to nature and to the memory of a loved one—and often carries significant personal, environmental, and cultural meanings. Additionally, the cost of scattering ashes at sea is often more affordable compared to traditional burial methods, making it an attractive option for many families.

Below, we explore the reasons why many families choose sea scattering as a final farewell for their loved ones.

1. Connection to Nature and the Concept of Eternity

One of the foremost reasons families choose to scatter ashes at sea is the profound sense of connection it fosters with the natural world and the cycle of life.

The ocean, vast and boundless, serves as a powerful metaphor for eternity and continuity. To many, scattering ashes at sea symbolizes a return to nature’s essential elements—water, wind, and earth—and allows the departed to become part of a larger, enduring existence that transcends human life.

The rhythmic ebb and flow of the ocean can evoke feelings of tranquility, symbolizing the ceaseless journey of the soul. This resonates with many spiritual and philosophical beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife.

Various cultures perceive the sea as a sacred space where the spirit is free to continue its journey, flowing with the currents and merging with the infinite expanse of the waters. This view can provide great comfort to grieving families, as they feel a deep sense of peace knowing that their loved one is now part of the earth’s natural processes, carried along by the eternal tides.

2. A Deeply Personal Connection to the Sea

For some, scattering ashes at sea reflects the personal passions or life experiences of the deceased. A strong connection to the ocean can stem from a variety of sources, making the act of scattering ashes over the water a highly meaningful and personal choice. These may include:

• A lifelong love for the ocean manifested through sailing, surfing, swimming, or other water sports.
• A professional career tied to the sea, such as naval service, commercial fishing, or marine conservation.
• Fond family memories associated with seaside vacations, beach gatherings, or waterfront living.
• A profound respect for marine life and ecosystems is often rooted in a commitment to protecting the ocean environment.

In each case, scattering ashes at sea serves as a tribute to the life and passions of the departed, ensuring that their final resting place reflects what they loved and cherished in life.

3. Embracing the Symbolism of Freedom and Boundlessness

The ocean’s vastness inherently represents freedom, openness, and an unconfined spirit, qualities that many people value and wish to associate with in their final disposition.

In contrast to the traditional burial in a fixed and limited plot, scattering ashes at sea offers a sense of boundlessness and limitless possibility.

For those who led adventurous lives or found peace in nature’s open spaces, scattering ashes over the water can represent a final journey into freedom. It allows the bereaved to imagine their loved one as free and unbounded, carried away by the tides to new horizons.

The expansiveness of the sea can evoke feelings of release and transcendence, suggesting that the departed is now at one with the elements and experiencing eternal freedom.

4. Environmental Considerations and Sustainability

As environmental awareness increases, more people are seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional burials. Scattering ashes at sea is seen by many as a greener option with minimal ecological impact when done responsibly.

Traditional burials often involve embalming fluids, metal caskets, and concrete vaults, all of which can have a considerable environmental footprint. By contrast, scattering ashes at sea avoids these concerns, allowing for a simple, natural return to the earth without the use of synthetic materials or chemicals.

Those who wish to make environmentally conscious decisions in death find solace in the idea that sea scattering leaves a light footprint and honors the natural world in a sustainable way. This sense of environmental stewardship can be a driving factor in choosing the ocean as a final resting place.

5. Honoring Cultural and Historical Traditions

Sea burials hold a rich and varied history across many cultures and traditions around the world. For centuries, people have looked to the sea as a fitting and honorable place for a final farewell.

From ancient Viking funerals, where cremated remains were set adrift in ships, to the longstanding traditions of naval burials at sea, the practice has deep cultural roots.

In various spiritual and cultural beliefs, the sea represents both life and death, a place of mystery, transformation, and renewal.

For those with a maritime background or who come from communities that honor sea burials, scattering ashes over the water can be an important way to connect to these historical practices and uphold a tradition that resonates deeply within their culture and family heritage.

Scattering ashes at sea is a poignant, meaningful choice for many families seeking a final tribute to their loved ones. It reflects a deep connection to nature, personal experiences, the desire for freedom, environmental consciousness, and cultural significance.

The sea, in its eternal beauty and boundlessness, becomes a space where life is honored, remembered, and continues in a different form, offering comfort and closure to those left behind.

Creating Memorable and Respectful Ash Scattering Ceremonies

During a time of loss, honoring a loved one’s final journey can be deeply healing, and we are here to help make that experience both meaningful and respectful. Our professional and compassionate team designs our ash scattering services at sea to provide families with a solemn, memorable, and dignified ceremony conducted with care. We carefully consider the cost of scattering ashes at sea to offer families an affordable and respectful option.

We strive to create a comforting and peaceful experience, offering solace to grieving families while treating your loved one’s remains with the utmost respect and dignity.

Our crew dedicates itself to upholding a standard of excellence in every detail of the ash scattering process. We understand that this is not just a service but a cherished moment of remembrance, and we take great pride in facilitating ceremonies that honor the unique wishes and legacy of the departed.

We conduct every step, from preparation to the final scattering, with thoughtfulness, allowing families to find peace in knowing that their loved one’s ashes rest in trusted hands, released into the sea with care and reverence.

Personalized and Thoughtful Services at Burial At Sea

Over the years, families have shared their gratitude for the way we have helped transform a sorrowful moment into a beautifully memorable farewell. The Burial At Sea company works closely with families to incorporate special elements that make each ash scattering ceremony unique, whether that involves playing a specific piece of music, holding a brief spoken tribute, or honoring the individual’s personal connection to the sea.

We tailor the cost of scattering ashes at sea to suit various preferences, making the process accessible for all.

Our attention to the departed’s last wishes and the surviving family’s specific requests allows us to personalize every ceremony, making it heartfelt and conducted just as envisioned.

Our team is always attentive to the emotional and practical needs of grieving families. We offer guidance and support throughout the process, helping families plan and prepare for the scattering service in a way that honors their loved one’s life and memory.

Whether the ceremony is intimate and private or larger and more ceremonial, our priority is to bring a sense of comfort, reverence, and fulfillment to this poignant farewell.

A Unique and Healing Experience at Sea

Scattering ashes at sea provides a peaceful, natural setting for a final resting place, and our goal is to make the experience serene and uplifting. The open ocean, with its vast horizons and gentle waves, offers a powerful and calming space for reflection and remembrance.

Many families find comfort in the beauty and tranquility of the sea, seeing it as a fitting way to honor a loved one’s adventurous spirit, connection to nature, or love for the water.

We thoughtfully design our services to create a meaningful experience for everyone involved. From the moment you step on board, our crew supports and comforts your family, guiding you through every step of the ceremony with respect and sensitivity. We structure the cost of scattering ashes at sea to provide families with options that suit their needs while maintaining the dignity and significance of the event.

The scattering ceremony itself can be as simple or as elaborate as desired, whether it’s a quiet, contemplative moment with just a few words spoken or a more detailed event with music, floral tributes, and readings.

Testimonials of Comfort and Gratitude

Families who have chosen our services consistently express their satisfaction with how we handle the delicate nature of ash scattering at sea. We often receive heartfelt messages of gratitude, highlighting not only the beauty and solemnity of the ceremony itself but also our crew’s dedication to supporting families in their time of grief.

Clients appreciate our attention to detail, compassionate service, and our ability to provide a truly respectful and meaningful farewell to their loved ones.

It is our privilege to serve families during such a significant and personal moment. We understand the deep emotional weight of this final tribute, and we feel honored to bring peace, healing, and a sense of closure to those who entrust us with their loved one’s final journey.

When you choose our ash scattering services, we assure you a beautiful and dignified ceremony conducted with care, respect, and honor for the life lived.

Our Burial Services at Sea

At Burial At Sea, we dedicate ourselves to excellence, conducting each ceremony with the utmost respect and care. Our locations in San Pedro, Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Redondo Beach provide convenient options for families across the region.

In San Pedro, CA, and surrounding areas, we offer comprehensive services tailored to meet the unique needs of every family. Whether you prefer scattering ashes or a full-body burial, our experienced team is here to support you throughout the process. The cost of scattering ashes at sea is clearly outlined, providing transparency and peace of mind for families as they plan this important farewell.

Serving Santa Catalina Island and nearby regions, we personalize each ceremony to honor your loved one’s wishes and legacy, creating a heartfelt tribute that will endure over time. We also keep the cost of scattering ashes at sea competitive while maintaining the quality and dignity of our services.

We invite you to contact our San Pedro, CA office to discover more about our burial at sea services. With diverse locations and comprehensive offerings, Burial At Sea commits to helping you commemorate your loved one’s memory in a truly special and dignified manner.

For additional information on our service plans, vessels, and memorial options, please feel free to reach out to us at 310-714-0548. You can also connect with us via our online form to discuss your funeral needs, and we will promptly respond to your inquiries.