What is seasickness?

It may seem like something unique to the sea, but seasickness is just motion sickness that happens on the water. Seasickness happens when your vestibular system, which is a part of the inner ear and helps with coordinating movement with balance, becomes conflicted because of the unusual motion of a being on a boat on the water. 

While seasickness isn’t a regular occurrence, it’s always possible. Most commonly, it affects those prone to migraines, the elderly, pregnant women, and children. Guests know they are experiencing it when they have a slight feeling of discomfort. It can be as minimal as nausea, or could trigger effects such as dizziness, sweating, or vomiting. However, with prevention and awareness it can hopefully be handled. 

Top tips for how to avoid getting seasick aboard your yacht charter

How to prevent seasickness before you come aboard your yacht charter

• Prepare your body for a big day of fun. Get a full night’s rest and a good breakfast so that your body is in top shape for the day.
• Come hydrated! Seasickness and related medications cause dehydration and headaches. 
• Contemplate bringing an acupressure bracelet. This is a totally natural option that can help reduce seasickness. A small button on a cloth bracelet stimulates the P6 point on your wrist. By pressing the small button, just three fingers above the wrist it can alleviate or lessen the effects of motion sickness. 
• Consider seasickness medicine
  • There are over the counter and prescription drugs available that target seasickness. Guests are likely to have heard of the over the counter products such as Dramamine and Bonine. Options such as these require adequate time to take effect (think 24hrs), as the medicine is much more effective if it’s already in the bloodstream. Be sure to take into consideration the effects of the prescriptions and if unsure consult your medical professional.
• Bring items with peppermint and ginger. These natural remedies are known for the ability to sooth seasickness. 
• Bring crackers and blander foods, to help settle the stomach.
• Plan ahead and bring / take anything you may need to alleviate any stress that could impact your day on the water.
• Anxiety is a big contributor to seasickness, so it’s important to get your head in the right mindset. 

How to prevent seasickness while onboard your yacht charter

• Avoid alcohol. It dehydrates the body and can make the inner ear even more sensitive to movement as it impairs your balance.
• Stay hydrated! Seasickness and related medications cause dehydration and headaches. 
• Enjoy the view. Don’t get sucked into reading for long periods of time, unfortunately phones and books can trigger a sensory conflict. Your visual field stays focused and balanced, while the inner ear detects twists and turns, potentially activating nausea.

What to do if you begin to experience the effects of seasickness on board your yacht charter?

• The first thing to do is alert your yacht charter crew. They can help gauge what would be best for you based on your symptoms. 
• Get a great forward looking spot on deck. The fresh air and a view of the horizon helps rebalance your body to the motion of the yacht.
• Clear your mind and focus on the music and good conversation.

Are you considering hosting a burial at sea ash scattering and want to know what to expect. Whether it is your first time on a burial at sea, doing an ash scattering, or working with our company we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

What you need to bring on board

✔️   Disposition of Los Angeles Human Remains Permit

✔️  Ashes

(no urn is necessary, but families are welcome to use a biodegradable urn)

✔️  Any music they would like to have on board. We advise pre-downloading incase there is not a good connection.

What happens once we are at the burial at sea scattering location?

At the scattering location, families are encouraged to express themselves with their chosen words—whether through a heartfelt prayer, a meaningful toast, or a cherished song. The day is entirely tailored to honor your loved one in a way that feels most fitting. Following your personalized service, the ashes are gently scattered, embarking on their poignant journey into the sea. It’s a moment that allows families to bid a serene goodbye of a lifetime.

What do the crew do on a burial at sea ash scattering?

The crew will assist in whichever way the family is comfortable with. Preparing the ashes for release, or setting up memorial displays, the crew is there to help.

Does the crew perform the service at the scattering location? 

Our dedicated crew is available to assist with the respectful lowering of the ashes. Families have the option and responsibility to provide and read any texts or sentiments they wish to be shared during this meaningful moment.

How do we confirm a booking?

STEP 1: Select a vessel

Pick a yacht that can accommodate your guests and is in your preferred style

STEP 2: Confirm Availability

Check availability for your preferred date (text us or fill out a form on the boat page that you like)

STEP 3: Book

Confirm the booking by paying for the service (we will send you a contract via email). All service details will be provided in the confirmation email.

STEP 4: Attend burial at sea service

Let us guide your family through a beautiful service

Burial at Sea Timing

With no special coordinates guests can estimate the following timeline to be the minimum amount of time needed for burial at sea. The booking starts at the time of departure. 

Guests arrive at Dock          (15 minutes in advance of the booking)

Depart

20 minutes* Journey to Scattering Location 🛥️

                              Ashes are placed into the basket 🧺

                               Arrive at Scattering Location

10 minutes Service Words

10 minutes Ashes are Lowered 🌹 

20 minutes* Return to Dock 🛥️

**Please note timing can vary per vessel and departure location.**

How do I plan a burial at sea?

☐ Be sure to have the Los Angeles Disposition of Human Remains Permit

☐ Send out an invitation to those you wish to attend the burial at sea service

☐ Decide if you would like to have the ashes lowered in a basket or placed in an decomposable urn

☐ Select who will lower the ashes. A family member or a member of the crew?

☐ Discuss with family what you would like to happen when the ashes are lowered. Do you want everyone to share a memory? Will someone say a prayer? Does everyone prefer to watch and say their goodbyes in silence?

☐ Decide if you would like to have memorial cards available at the burial at sea service. If so have them made & Printed

☐ Select and have any music that you would like to listen to prepared

☐ Arrange any food and beverage you would like on the boat for your guest. Be sure to check the vessel policy on food and beverage.

☐  If you don’t plan to have a wake on board, arrange a post burial at sea gathering for a luncheon at home or local establishment

Navigating Solutions: Your Extra Help is Just a Click Away!

Give us an email info@losangelesyachtcharter.com or  text 424-328-1417

For the unattended burial at sea you will need to ship the cremated remains to our office. Please check out below all the information you need on ‘How to package and ship cremated remains’.

General Instructions for shipping cremated remains

The United States Postal Service® offers Priority Mail Express® and Priority Mail Express International® service for shipping human or animal cremated remains domestically and internationally.

Cremated remains are permitted to be mailed to any domestic address when the package is prepared as described below and in the referenced postal manuals.

Cremated remains are permitted to be mailed to an international address when the designating country does not prohibit the contents and when Priority Mail Express International service is available to that country. You can verify this by checking the Individual Country Listing in the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, International Mail Manual (IMM®)

Packaging of cremated remains

You will need a primary inner sift-proof container, cushioning material, and an outer shipping package.

Note: A sift-proof container is any vessel that does not allow loose powder to leak or sift out. There are many options available to store cremated remains — Typically the bag you receive the ashes in should be acceptable inside the external shipping box.

USPS® recommends consulting with a licensed funeral director to help you select the best container.

Inner Primary Container

■ Domestic Shipping: The inner primary container must be strong, durable, and constructed in such a manner as to protect and securely contain the contents inside. It must be properly sealed and sift-proof.

■ International Shipping: A funeral urn is required as the inner primary container. It must be properly sealed and sift-proof.

For a burial at sea, the Los Angeles Disposition of Human Remains Permit must be included inside the package or arranged with Los Angeles Yacht Charter in advance.

Seal and Address the Inner Primary Container 

In the event the shipping label becomes detached from the outer container, the Postal Service™ recommends that you put the sift-proof container in a sealed plastic bag. Then, attach a label with the complete return address and delivery address on the sealed plastic bag and the wording “Cremated Remains.”

Cushioning Material 

For both domestic and international shipping, place sufficient cushioning all around the inner primary sift-proof container to prevent it shifting inside the outer shipping package during transit and to absorb any shock to prevent breakage.

Outer Shipping Package

For both domestic and international shipping, cremated remains must be shipped by USPS Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail Express International Service utilizing either a USPS-produced or customer-supplied shipping package. If using a customer-supplied shipping package, it must be strong and durable to withstand transportation handling.

For convenience, the Postal Service has a Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box that may be used for domestic or international shipments using the applicable Priority Mail Express service. The Priority Mail Express Cremated Remains box can be ordered online at the Postal Store on USPS.com® and is available as part of a kit.

Before closing and sealing the shipping package, the Postal Service recommends adding a slip of paper with both the sender’s and recipient’s address and contact information inside the package. This extra step will help to identify the sender and receiver in the event the shipping label becomes detached.

Labeling and Markings

To increase the visibility of mailpieces containing cremated remains, the outer shipping box (USPSproduced or customer-supplied) containing cremated remains must be marked with Label 139, Cremated Remains, affixed to each side (including top and bottom). Label 139 is available at the Postal Store on USPS.com or can be obtained at a retail Post Office™ location.

Label 139 (Dimensions: 4″ x 6″)

Address Your Package

Domestic Shipping:

■ A complete return address and delivery address must be used. The address format for a package is the same as for an envelope. Write or print address labels clearly. Use ink that does not smear and include the addresses and ZIP Codes™ for you and your recipient.

■Double check the mailing address, especially the ZIP Code. You can use Look Up a ZIP Code™ on USPS.com.

■ Mailers may generate single-ply Priority Mail Express labels through Click-N-Ship® or other USPS-approved methods.

International Shipping: A complete return address and delivery address must be used. The mailer must indicate the identity of the contents (Cremated Remains) on the required applicable customs declaration form. To determine the applicable required customs form, see IMM Section 123.61.

Note: If available, the cremation certificate should be attached to the outer box or made easily accessible. The sender is responsible for adherence to any restrictions or observances noted by the designating country.

For More Questions:

■ Visit a Post Office to speak with a Sales and Service Associate.

■ Call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).

■ FAQs on USPS.com.

■ Video – How to Package and Ship Cremated Remains: https://www.youtube.com/user/uspstv. For postal supplies, visit the Postal Store on USPS.com: https://store.usps.com

How to Package and Ship Cremated Remains – US Post Service Publication 139 (September 2019)

Warmly invite guests to join you for a burial at sea in whichever manner feels most fitting for your group. Whether it’s through a heartfelt word-of-mouth invitation or a beautifully crafted formal invite, the choice is entirely yours. Our aim is to ensure that the occasion is shared with those who matter most in a way that resonates deeply with your collective spirit.

Who do you invite to a burial at sea service?

Deciding who to invite to a burial at sea service is a deeply personal choice that often reflects the unique relationships and bonds shared with the departed individual. Close family members, including spouses, children, siblings, and parents, are typically the first to be considered for such an intimate gathering. Additionally, close friends, colleagues, and other loved ones who shared significant connections with the deceased may also be included. It’s essential to prioritize those who would find solace and comfort in being present to bid their final farewells amidst the serenity of the ocean. Ultimately, the guest list should reflect the wishes of the deceased and the desires of those closest to them, ensuring that the ceremony is a meaningful and inclusive tribute to their life and legacy.

You can find inspiration on who to invite to burial at sea service by revisiting holiday card lists, an address book, scrolling through the deceased contacts or reaching out to those who spent a lot of time with them. 

What to include on a burial at sea service invite?

Preparing for a meaningful burial at sea requires attention to detail, especially when informing your guests. Here’s what to include on your invitation:

Boat Pickup Location: Navigate your guests to the embarkation point with clarity.

Parking Instructions: Smooth sailing starts with hassle-free parking—include where to dock their vehicles.

Pickup Time:Don’t miss the boat! Stress the importance of punctuality, as captains and boats adhere to tight schedules. Arriving at least 15 minutes early ensures every moment of the service is cherished.

Contact Information:Share your contact details and request RSVPs, Just in case a last-minute check-in is needed.

Post-Service Gathering: After the heartfelt ceremony, will there be a shoreside gathering to continue sharing memories and honoring your loved one? Let your guests know the plan.

By addressing these points in your invitation, you’ll ensure a smooth and respectful experience for all involved in honoring your loved one’s memory at sea.

Text message burial at sea invitations

When inviting guests to a burial at sea via text message, consider crafting a message that communicates the solemnity of the occasion while providing essential details. Begin with a brief introduction acknowledging the significance of the event and expressing gratitude for their presence during this difficult time. Then, succinctly outline the details of the service, including the date, time, and location of the burial, along with any special instructions such as arrival times or parking information. Encourage recipients to RSVP by a specified deadline and offer your contact information for any further questions or assistance. Remember to convey the importance of honoring the memory of the departed individual and the significance of their presence at this meaningful ceremony.

How to enhance digital invites with a digital image

Enhance your digital invitations by incorporating a meaningful image that captures the essence of your loved one’s spirit. Whether it’s a serene seascape, a cherished memory, or a symbol of remembrance, a digital image can add a heartfelt touch to your invitation. Simply craft a thoughtful message with the details of the funeral burial at sea service and attach the image before sending it via text to friends and family. This personalized approach not only conveys the important information but also honors the memory of your loved one in a meaningful way.

Regardless of your level of technical expertise, there are numerous user-friendly platforms available, offering simple templates that anyone can utilize. Many for free as well such as Canva or Poster my wall 

Social Media burial at sea invitations

Inviting guests to a burial at sea service via social media should be approached with sensitivity and thoughtfulness. Begin by crafting a heartfelt message that honors the memory of the departed individual and outlines the details of the ceremony. Include essential information such as the date, time, and location of the service, as well as any special instructions or requests. Consider creating a private event page or group where guests can RSVP and share memories or messages of condolence.

By leveraging the power of social media in a respectful and considerate manner, you can ensure that loved ones near and far have the opportunity to join together in commemorating the life and legacy of the departed amidst the beauty of the sea.

Before posting anything online,, it’s considerate to ensure that all immediate family and close friends have been personally informed. This thoughtful gesture helps prevent any inadvertent feelings of exclusion or hurt that may arise from discovering important information through social media channels.

Some ways to invite guests to the burial at sea using online resources is to:

– Create a private facebook event that is only visible to the guests you select.

– Post an event on the page of the deceased

Email burial at sea invitations

If you have the email addresses of all your invitees you can easily crafta beautiful invite via user-friendly platforms like Evite  or Greeting Island. There are many free templates with stunning designs that convey all the essential service details with style and grace.

Printed invitations for a burial at sea

If you prefer to uphold a timless tradition and have the time, consider sending a printed burial at sea invitation.

You can easily design and order physical printed invitations online at companies like: Shutterfly, Minted, Paperless Post. Many will also mail them directly to the guest on your behalf. 

Let spirits fly free with a beautiful dove release service. The dove symbolizes peace, hope, and freedom. As the doves wings flutter into the sky, lose yourself in the serenity of the beautiful burial at sea. Dove releases are a beautiful way to end a burial at sea and Los Angeles Yacht Charter is happy to help families arrange doves so that everything is ready and prepared for them when they board.

How do dove releases work on a burial at sea?

When we arrive at the scattering location, families will have their service and the ashes will be lowered. Afterwards the doves will be brought to the area. The doves are then released, flying above the remains and flocking together and soaring in the sky. The timing of the release can of course always be customized to the families preference.

History of Dove Releases

Dove releases have been used for over 5,000 years. Egyptians started this beautiful practice and it spread across the world, adapting itself to a variety of cultures and eras. There is evidence of dove releases in ancient Greece, China, across the roman empire, and more. Each civilization has their own dove  interpretation, but all highly respect this beacon of light that graces our skies.

Why do people have dove releases at burials at sea?

A dove release can mean different things to families during their service. As the dove is released and begins its journey to some it can feel like they are a part of their loved ones’ next “flight.” For others the doves are a beautiful way of releasing their grief and turning into a beautiful memory. For each group it’s different, and whether the dove release is symbolic or for aesthetic purposes the release is magical to watch and amazes all in attendance.

What do doves symbolize

Grace Peace, Love, Gentleness, Purity, Hope, Spirituality

Dove Meanings to different cultures

Doves are very important in spirituality. Many cultures and religions have dove elements that are important and symbolic. Some examples of doves meaning through a few cultures are as follows.

– Native Americans – While there are of course variations between tribes they were overall thought of as symbols of gentleness and peace. One Cheyenne proverb says “If a man is as wise as a serpent, he can afford to be as harmless as a dove.”

– Ancient Greeks – For the Greeks the dove was a symbol of love, renewal, and immortality.

– Christianity – One of the most prevalent references of the dove release is in the Bible, in the story of Noah. Today the dove continues to represent hope and eternal life.

– Chinese -In China the dove is an important symbol of peace, longevity, faithfulness, love, and the beginning of the spring season.

– Celtic – There is diversity between the Celtic tribes meanings, but overall the dove symbolizes peace and care for all living creatures

Seeking inspiration to personalize your burial at sea and craft a truly unique ash scattering ceremony that honors your departed loved one? Delve deeper into the possibilities ahead to discover how you can create a meaningful and unforgettable tribute customized burial at sea.

Ideas on how to create a moment for everyone at a burial at sea ash scattering

Crafting a memorable moment for everyone during a burial at sea ash scattering can indeed be challenging but deeply rewarding. Consider incorporating elements that allow each attendee to participate in a meaningful way. Ultimately, the goal is to create a shared experience that honors the departed and provides comfort and closure for all in attendance.

Group scattering: Every family member can come to the event with an individual vial of the ashes and then each individual can pour their vial into the sea, or they can pour them into a collective basket which then a spouse or partner can release to show how the departed was a piece of each one of them. 

Create memorial stones or shells: Bring a rock or shell for each guest and have them write their name and or a favorite memory of the departed. When the ashes are spread everyone can toss their or rock/shell so the ashes are in the company of good memories from loved ones. Anything placed in the water must be biodegradable. Alternatively, the memorial rock/shell can be kept by the widowed partner as a reminder of the loved one who had passed.

Burial at sea customisation using flowers

Flowers are another one of nature’s beauties that can help enhance your burial at sea service. Incorporating flowers into your burial at sea service can add a touch of natural beauty and grace.

Flower offerings: Individual roses or leis can be arranged so that each member of the group can have an offering to throw into the water once the ashes are spread.  

Floral decor: The vessel can be decorated with a floral tribute spray that shows something of meaning to the departed. For example a wreath shaped like the wishes of the departed. 

How to have customize burial at sea memorial decor

Customizing burial at sea memorial decor allows you to create a deeply personal tribute to honor your loved one’s memory. Choose a thematic decor that reflects their interests, incorporate personalized items and favorite flowers. Consider providing customized keepsakes for guests as mementos of the memorial service. By infusing the decor with meaningful touches, you can create a unique and heartfelt tribute that celebrates the life and legacy of your loved one in a meaningful way.

Photos: Feel free to bring your favorite photos of the departed to have on display. You can have a large photo in an aisle or you could do a collection of a few in frames highlighting the personality of the departed or favorite memories you had together.

Memory Board: create a memory board with memories from the life of the loved one who is being scattered.

Embrace their community: Were they avid sports fans or in a club with a distinct flag? Bring the ashes wrapped in their favorite jersey or flag of meaning.

Mementos: Take an opportunity to create a meaningful display for the ashes by incorporating mementos from the departed’s life. Consider items that held special significance, such as a beloved hat, an instrument they cherished, a piece of jewelry that adorned them, or a favorite record that was always on rotation. These thoughtful touches can serve as a heartfelt tribute, surrounding the urn with reminders of the individual’s passions, personality, and presence.

Food and Beverage

Arranging snacks for a burial at sea service can provide comfort and sustenance for attendees during a solemn occasion. Consider preparing simple finger foods and refreshments that are easy to serve and enjoy amidst the serenity of the sea. Opt for light and portable options such as sandwiches, fruit platters, cheese and crackers, and refreshing beverages. These thoughtful offerings can provide a moment of respite and nourishment for those in attendance as they honor the memory of their loved one. You can also customize the food and drink offering to tailor it to the deceased in the following ways.

Favorite foods: Arrange a spread that reflects that favorite foods of the departed. Maybe they were cheese fanatics or never skipped a cookie. 

Raise a toast: share a favorite toast of the loved one and have everyone share a cheers afterward.

Take a shot: Arrange for everyone to receive a shot of the loved ones favorite alcohol, followed by one being poured out on the ashes.

Music

Music holds the power to set the tone and evoke emotions, enriching the atmosphere of a burial at sea with a poignant soundtrack. Whether music is a cherished part of your life or held special significance to the departed, its inclusion is paramount in crafting a meaningful event. Selecting songs that resonate with the memories and emotions shared amongst attendees can create a deeply personal and memorable experience. Whether it’s a soothing melody that offers solace or an uplifting tune that celebrates a life well-lived, music has the ability to honor and reflect the essence of the departed individual.

Professional musicians: Enlisting the talents of a musician to pay tribute to the lost loved one can elevate the solemnity of the burial at sea service. Whether it’s the haunting melodies of a bagpipe, the ethereal tones of a harpist, or the heartfelt strumming of an acoustic guitar, live music has the power to imbue the occasion with a deeply personal and evocative ambiance. The soul-stirring notes echoing over the sea can serve as a poignant tribute, honoring the memory of the departed in a truly unforgettable manner.

Custom Playlist: Crafting a special playlist for a burial at sea allows you to infuse the ceremony with a deeply personal touch. Consider selecting songs that reflect the solemnity and significance of the event, or choose pieces that hold personal meaning to the departed individual. Whether it’s melodies that evoke cherished memories or tunes that capture the essence of the sea, curating a thoughtful playlist can add depth and resonance to the proceedings. Trust your intuition and select songs that feel right, creating a musical tribute that honors the memory of your loved one in a meaningful way.

Beautiful Burial at Sea addons

Honoring a loved one’s memory is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Simply being present and scattering ashes is a beautiful tribute in itself. However, at times, we may feel compelled to incorporate additional elements to help us navigate the difficulties of the passing.

Dove Release: Releasing doves can add a meaningful and symbolic touch to a burial at sea ceremony. As the doves take flight, they symbolize peace, love, and the eternal spirit of the departed, offering a powerful moment of closure and remembrance for all in attendance.

Bubbles: Blowing bubbles can create a whimsical and uplifting atmosphere at a burial at sea ceremony. As the bubbles drift gracefully over the water, they symbolize the joyous memories and cherished moments shared with the departed. This simple yet heartfelt gesture can bring comfort and lightness to the occasion, providing a beautiful way to honor and celebrate the life of your loved one with a sky full of your loved ones memory.

Nautical themed Burial at Sea

A nautical-themed burial at sea adds a unique and fitting tribute for someone who had a love for the ocean or maritime pursuits. From incorporating maritime symbols like anchors and compasses to decking out the vessel with nautical decor such as ropes, shells, and maritime flags, every detail can evoke the spirit of the sea. Consider including elements like sailor’s knots as ceremonial decorations, a traditional ship’s bell for a solemn tolling, or even a symbolic tossing of flowers or wreaths into the water. This thematic approach not only honors the individual’s connection to the sea but also creates a memorable and fitting farewell amidst the vast expanse of the ocean.

For fishing enthusiasts: A burial at sea tailored for fishing enthusiasts can be a heartfelt homage to their passion for the water and angling. Consider incorporating elements such as fishing rods, tackle boxes, and fishing lures into the ceremony. You might arrange a fishing trip burial at sea for attendees where they can also cast lines into the water as a symbolic gesture of bidding farewell. Sharing stories of memorable fishing trips and casting out lines in remembrance can create a deeply meaningful tribute, honoring the departed’s love for the sport and the sea.

For Surfers: Organizing a Hawaiian-style paddle out can be a fitting tribute to honor their deep connection to the ocean and the surfing community. Invite fellow surfers and boogie boarders to a paddle out where they can gather around the boat in the water as the ashes are spread. Participants can form a circle, hold hands, and share memories and stories of the departed while paying their respects. After scattering the ashes, participants can catch waves in remembrance of their friend’s love for surfing. This ceremony not only celebrates the individual’s passion for the ocean but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among fellow surfers.

After a beautiful burial at sea, the nautical bell is rung and the departed begin their next adventure. From any of our Southern California locations, the ashes begin in the Pacific Ocean and enter the California current, also known as the pacific ocean current. Some parts of the ashes will make the burial area home while other parts could venture south with current going along the equator and onto destinations as far as Asia or Australia. Each journey and individual is different, but through the burial at sea, they become one with the ecosystem of the ocean.

Planning a burial at sea entails a thoughtful blend of logistical precision and ceremonial significance. At Los Angeles Yacht Charter, we specialize in guiding families through every aspect of this poignant journey. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring that not only the waters are navigated smoothly, but also that every detail surrounding the service is meticulously attended to. With our support, you can rest assured that your loved one will be honored with a serene and dignified ceremony befitting their memory.

What do I need to know before booking a burial at sea Ash Scattering Service?

Making sure you have the administrative and logistical details are important to verify before confirming your burial at sea arrangements. Once you have these details the company can help direct you to the right options. 

Answers to have before booking a burial at sea service

🔲 How many guests would you like to have aboard the boat for the service?

🔲 Do you have a preference on where the scattering will be?

🔲 Get a consensus on a few dates and time your party will be available.

🔲 Do you have the Disposition of Human Remains Permit?

🔲 Decide how much time you will need for your burial at sea service. 

                   To decide on the time needed, think about a few things:

                   -How many loved ones will you be scattering?

                   -How many people will want to speak?

                   -Did you want some time for closure on the sea?

                   -Will you want to offer snacks and or drinks?

What do I need to book a burial at sea service?

Whoever is confirming and paying for the booking, also known as the “charter” will need to be one signing the confirmation documentation online and be coming on board the vessel (able to show ID). 

To finalize the burial at sea service you need:

🔲 Date of service

🔲 Timing of the service 

🔲 How long you would like the service to be

🔲 Form of payment (credit card, debit card, venmo, or zelle)

🔲 Disposition of Human Remains permit, or confirmation of it being provided by the funeral home or crematorium establishment

What needs to be arranged after confirming my burial at sea ash scattering?

Before you partake in your burial at sea be sure to arrange the following, so that on the day everything will run smoothly as hoped for.

🔲 Be sure to have the Los Angeles Disposition of Human Remains Permit ready, with box #16A Indicating a burial at sea

🔲 Invite your guests. Be sure to make the arrival time no later than 15 minutes before departure time so your guests do not miss the service

🔲 Decide if you would like to have the ashes lowered in a basket (available on most vessels) or placed in an decomposable urn (to be purchased)

🔲 Decide if you would like the crew or family member to place the ashes into the basket.

🔲 Discuss with family what you would like to happen when the ashes are lowered. Do you want everyone to share a memory? Will someone say a prayer? Does everyone prefer to watch and say their goodbyes in silence?

🔲 Decide if you would like the crew or family member to assist in lowering the ashes into the water

Optional things to arrange for a burial at sea

While not necessary, the following are reminders of things possible to arrange for a burial at sea service if the family would like. Every service can be customized to you and your family just be sure to indicate to the company what your hopes are. 

🔲 A large printed photo (frames and stands not available on board)

🔲 Decide if you would like to have memorial cards 

🔲 Select and download music playlist

🔲 Arrange any food and beverage you would like on the boat for your guests

🔲 Prepare to purchase any additional flowers for throwing into the water (must be biodegradable), to place on the ashes, or as decor (ie: Wreaths or standing sprays)

What to bring on board for the burial at sea?

In the midst of these challenging moments, it’s all too common to overlook important details. To ensure you have everything you need, we suggest assembling all your essentials in the car you’ll be using for the service the day before. This simple step will help you stay organized and avoid any last-minute scrambles, ensuring you have everything you desire at hand during this important time.

🔲  Los Angeles Disposition of Human Remains Permit 

🔲 The remains of the deceased

🔲 Any additional decor (ex: Flowers or photos)

What is a disposition of human remains permit?

In order for the California government to keep track of the deceased, any movement or activities (such as entering, moving, and or leaving the area) of the remains requires a Permit for Disposition of Human Remains. Movement and activities also means that burials at sea need to be registered with the state.

How can I get a disposition of human remains permit?

How you collect the disposition of human remains can vary depending on the situation of the deceased:

How to collect a permit if the deceased was cremated in Los Angeles County

A Disposition of Human Remains Permit should be included in the paperwork from the funeral home or crematorium establishment. Meaning, if you have the remains already you likely already have a disposition of human remains permit. 

Alternatively, if you are still waiting to receive the remains then you will need to wait until you can pick up the deceased and the paperwork that goes along with it. You can always call the establishment and confirm that the permit will be provided. 

🛥️ If it wasn’t known that the family would like a burial at sea service at the time of receiving the permit, you can reach back out to the funeral establishment and ask for it to be updated.

How to collect a permit if the deceased was NOT cremated in Los Angeles County

According to the state of California it is required to keep track of where remains whether they were residents or if they entered the state after their passing. To get a Los Angeles disposition of human remains permit for remains that were not processed in California families have 2 options to have a permit created. 

Option 1, Go to the vital records office and have a permit created for the deceased. This must be done in person with the death certificate of the departed.

Option 2, Reach out to any LA funeral home or crematorium to have a permit created. This can be done digitally and requires nothing to be done in person.  

🛥️What does a Disposition of Human Remains Permit need to include for a burial at sea to be performed?

Any burial at sea in the state of california, must indicate the intent to scatter on the disposition of human remains permit, in box 16A. 

What does a Los Angeles County Disposition of Human Remains look like?

Can I use an out of state disposition of human remains permit for a burial at sea in Los Angeles?

The state of california requires all bodies being laid to rest in California need to have a disposition of human remains permit. This allows the state to keep track of where remains are going. Meaning that If the ashes are from out of the county of LA,the state of California, or the country of the United States, then a California disposition of human remains permit will need to be created for the deceased.

The permit can be created at the vital records office or by any local funeral home or crematorium. 

How to pick up a Los Angeles County Disposition of Human Remains Permit?

The Disposition of Human Remains Permit can be created at the Vital Records office. For the permit to be created someone needs to come in person to the office with the relevant documentation. After the information is presented to the office they will provide the permit immediately on site, there is no wait time. 

The office will need to have the following information and documents to process the permit:

🔲 An original death certificate (or a true copy) or an original transit/burial permit

🔲 The full name (of the deceased)

🔲 Date of birth (of the deceased)

🔲 Date of death

🔲 Location of death (City, County, and State)

What are the costs for a disposition of human remains permit?

The cost of the Disposition of Human Remains Permit varies based on the method chosen to have the permit created. 

Via the Vital Records directly, to have a permit created the cost is: $12.00 (They accept cash, credit, or check)

Alternatively, if a family is unable to go to the office and obtain the permit directly the cost from a funeral home or crematorium establish will very, but you can expect the cost to be: $100+

Where can I pick up a disposition of human remains permit?

Pickup Location: 

DPH Vital Records Office

313 North Figueroa Street

Room Lobby-1

Los Angeles, CA 90012

Office Hours: 

Open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Who can I contact for more information about the disposition of human remains permit?

For More information please reach out to the Vital Records Office directly:

📞 Phone Number  (213) 288-7816

📧 VRO@ph.lacounty.gov

💻 Los Angeles Vital Records Office Website