Burial at Sea Long Beach
A burial at sea in Long Beach offers families a peaceful and meaningful way to say goodbye to a loved one. Los Angeles Yacht Charter can help arrange private ash-scattering services departing from Long Beach, with professionally operated vessels available for both small families and larger memorial groups.
Choose from several Long Beach vessels based on your guest count, budget and preferences. Services can be arranged for different charter lengths, giving families the flexibility to plan anything from a simple ash scattering to a longer memorial cruise with more time to gather, share memories, hold a ceremony and enjoy time together on the water.
Our family business has helped families plan memorials at sea throughout Southern California, and we can help explain the vessel options, timing and practical details before you book.
What to Expect During a Long Beach Ash Scattering
Your captain and crew will depart from Long Beach and cruise offshore to an appropriate location for the ash-scattering ceremony. Once the vessel reaches the ceremony location, the captain will slow or stop the vessel so family and friends can gather, share memories, play music or say a few words.
When your family is ready, the cremated remains can be scattered at sea in accordance with the applicable requirements. After the ceremony, the vessel returns to Long Beach.
The exact experience varies by vessel and family. If you have a specific ceremony, religious tradition or memorial request in mind, let us know when you inquire.
Long Beach Burial at Sea Options at a Glance
Long Beach is one of our best departure locations for larger memorial groups, with several vessel sizes available. Current options range from smaller luxury yachts to passenger vessels accommodating large gatherings.
Services start at approximately $1,100 for a one-hour burial-at-sea charter, depending on the vessel and number of guests. Vessel availability and pricing can vary, so contact us with your preferred date and group size and we will help identify the best option.
Burial at Sea Boats in Long Beach
Showing all 3 matching vessels
Personalize the Memorial
Every family remembers a loved one differently. Depending on the vessel and availability, you may be able to include music, flowers or other meaningful touches as part of your time on the water.
$350
Harpist
A live harpist can provide gentle music during your memorial on the water. Ask about current availability and pricing.
$300 for 20 doves
Dove release
A dove release can add a symbolic moment of remembrance to the memorial. Available as an optional addition.
$350
Bagpiper
A professional bagpiper can provide live music during the memorial for families who would like to incorporate this tradition.
Where to Gather After a Burial at Sea in Long Beach
Parkers Lighthouse
Located close to the Long Beach departure area, Parkers lighthouse offers waterfront dining and private-event options for families who would like to gather after the service.
Gladstones
Gladstone’s offers casual waterfront dining and private space suitable for memorial gatherings. It is within walking distance of the Long Beach departure area.
Tantalum
Tantalum offers waterfront Asian-inspired dining and can be a good option for families looking for a larger meal or gathering after the service.
Burial at Sea Insights
Planning a Burial at Sea in Long Beach?
Tell us your preferred date, approximate guest count and any special requests. We’ll help you compare the available Long Beach vessels and find an option that fits your family.
Long Beach Burial at Sea FAQs
What is the best time for scattering ashes at sea?
Early morning is often the calmest time for a charter on the water, though late afternoon or sunset can also provide a peaceful setting for reflection.
What days of the week can I book a charter for a burial at sea experience?
Private charters are available seven days a week. Please contact us for availability and pricing.
How long does an ash scattering experience take?
The length of the experience can vary depending on the time your group spends sharing memories or personal words. On a one-hour charter, guests can expect about 15–20 minutes to speak and lower the ashes.
Do I need an urn for a scattering at sea?
An urn is not required. Guests may bring biodegradable urns or containers if they wish. Please note that by law, urns cannot be left in the ocean and must be emptied according to regulations.
What paperwork is needed for an ash scattering?
California law requires a Disposition of Human Remains Permit and a certified copy of the death certificate. Families or licensed providers are responsible for securing the necessary documentation.
How much does a burial at sea experience cost?
Pricing varies based on departure location, vessel, and guest count. Please contact us for a custom estimate tailored to your group.
Where are ashes scattered at sea?
Scattering may take place within 500 yards of the shoreline according to California Health and Safety Code §7117.
Are children included in the guest count?
Yes. The United States Coast Guard counts all children individually from ages 0–18. On luxury yachts, all children 13 and under are required to wear life jackets for safety.
Are refreshments included?
Unless specified, refreshments are not included. Each vessel has its own food and beverage rules. Boats with liquor licenses do not allow outside alcohol and may offer cash bars upon request (pricing varies).
What type of clothing should I wear?
Bring a hat and sunglasses. Comfortable layers are recommended to adapt to the conditions of the day. It can be windier on the water than on land, and layers can be removed if it gets too warm.
How far in advance should I book a charter?
Charters are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date and time. Nothing is on hold or confirmed until payment is received and a confirmation email is issued.
What happens to urns or containers left on board?
For safety and environmental reasons, any container used to transport cremated remains will be disposed of by crew after the service. We encourage families to bring any personal keepsakes ashore or make arrangements prior to the ceremony if they wish to retain them.
Will I get seasick?
Seasickness varies by person. Morning charters are often calmer, so consider this when booking. Review tips in advance if you are concerned.
What happens to a body after burial at sea?
After a burial at sea, the ashes will find their place within the Pacific. Some parts will remain near the service spot, while others travel with the currents. For a full body burial, the body is placed in a special casket, sinks to the ocean floor, and disintegrates safely over time.
Who is responsible for the disposition during a burial at sea?
The legally authorized Person in Charge of remains retains full responsibility and authority over the disposition at all times. While vessel crew may assist with operational tasks such as positioning and lowering, they act solely in a support capacity and do not assume responsibility for the disposition itself. The Person in Charge of Disposition remains the final decision-maker throughout the process and is responsible for ensuring that all applicable federal, state, and maritime regulations are met.
What do you call a burial at sea?
A burial at sea can refer to either an ash scattering or a full body burial at sea. Both involve placing the deceased into the Pacific as a final resting place.