Unattended burial at sea ($195)
If you have a loved one who would like to be scattered into the pacific, but aren’t able to attend an ash scattering or burial at sea service in person then an unattended burial at sea service is the perfect option for you.
A beautiful farewell
On our unattended burial at sea services we perform a traditional ash scattering service on your behalf. The boat will venture out three nautical miles before the captain will gently release the ashes into the sea followed by a traditional sailor’s goodbye. After the services we will send a digital certificate with the details of the ash scattering including official coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the services. Ashes can be sent via the United States postal service or arranged to be dropped off in person.
How to package and ship cremated remains for an unattended burial at sea
For the unattended burial at sea you will need to ship the cremated remains to our office. Please check out in the following article all the information you need on ‘How to package and ship cremated remains’.
Los Angeles Disposition of Human Remains Permit
California state regulation requires a permit for the disposition of human remains. Please read here how to obtain the permit. If you are from out of state or are unable to pick one up please let us know and we will assist you in obtaining the permit.
Where do the ashes go once they are scattered in the Great Pacific Ocean?
Please check out this comprehensive map of where the currents of oceans around the world will take the ashes.
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More information
What is an unattended burial at sea?
An unattended burial at sea is when ashes are scattered for you, by one of our captains, into the pacific ocean when circumstances don’t allow you to be present.
How does an unattended burial at sea work?
On our unattended burial at sea services we perform a traditional ash scattering service on your behalf. The boat will venture out 3 nautical miles before the captain will gently release the ashes into the sea followed by a traditional sailor’s goodbye. After the services we will send a certificate with the details of the ash scattering including official coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the services.
When does the unattended burial at sea take place?
Our unattended ash scattering services vary based on the time of year. Once the service is confirmed we will keep in contact to let you know when we will be going out for the service. We will also send a certificate of the service including the latitude and longitude of the ash placement.
Do I need an urn for an unattended burial at sea/ ash scattering?
Urns are not necessary for an unattended burial at sea, however guests are welcome to send or provide a biodegradable urn to release if they wish our captain to do so on their behalf.
How will I know when the unattended scattering took place?
When the booking is confirmed we will let you know when the ashes will be scattered. After the unattended scattering we will send you a certificate of the service with geo coordinate (latitude and longitude) of where your loved one started their journey.
How will I know where the unattended burial at sea took place?
We will provide you the exact dispersal details (longitude and latitude coordinates) where the cremains were released.
What paperwork do I need for an unattended ash scattering?
To perform an ash scattering we need the following documentation:
For a passing in California
-A signed authorization form
-The Los Angeles Disposition of Human Remains Permit (Burial Permit VS9 PDF).
For a passing outside of California
– A signed authorization form
– Cremation documentation/transit permit will be issued by your local County Health Department.
– A copy of the departed death certificate
Where do unattended burials at sea/ ash scattering services go?
Our unattended services go three nautical miles off the coast, in the Los Angeles area. We will send the exact latitude and longitude of the service on the certificate for your reference.
How soon in advance do I need to book an unattended burial at sea / ash scattering at sea?
Feel free to reach out and book at an unattended service at your convenience.
How can I customize an unattended burial at sea?
Our services are meant to honor the life of your friend or loved one, if there is anything we can do on your behalf such as read a prayer or play a song while doing the scattering we are happy to oblige.
How do you scatter ashes on an unattended burial at sea service in California?
We place ashes in the water most commonly using a basket method. We can use a provided biodegradable urn upon request.
Do you have a licence to scatter the ashes at sea?
Los Angeles Yacht Charter is fully licensed to provide burials at sea and ash scattering services. For over 10 years we have had an official Central Registration Depository Licence which is needed in order to be able to provide scattering services.
Are your captains licensed to do an unattended burial at sea?
All of our captains are officially licensed under the California state law to provide professional yacht charter and burial at sea services. Our captains have been selected through an extensive training program and will always stand for the safety of our passengers. Our captains are also experienced in hosting burial at sea/ ash scattering services and will do what it takes to make you feel comfortable during the burial at sea ceremony.
Is it legal to have ashes buried at sea on my behalf?
It is legal to have a burial at sea company scatter ashes on your behalf. As long as you provide the necessary paperwork ( the authorization form & the Burial Permit VS9). At Los Angeles Yacht Charter we are in accordance with all regulations needed to be able to provide an unattended burial at sea service.
What happens to the ashes after an unattended burial at sea?
After an unattended ash scattering the ashes will find their place within the great Pacific. Some parts will make the service spot home, while others will go with the currents around the world. After a full body burial at sea the body will sink to the bottom of the ocean and disintegrate within the special casket.
Are human ashes bad for the ocean?
As long as Environmental Protection Agency measures are followed, to ensure that the environment is not disturbed then ashes are not bad for the ocean environment.