What to expect on a burial at sea Ash Scattering
If you are considering hosting a burial at sea and want to know what to expect, you are not alone. Whether this is your first time attending a burial at sea, planning an ash scattering ceremony, or working with our company for the first time, we are here to answer any questions and guide you through the process.
All burial at sea services are conducted aboard a private yacht charter, reserved exclusively for your group. This allows families a quiet, intimate setting to honor their loved one with privacy, dignity, and care.
A burial at sea is a time-honored tradition that offers families a peaceful and meaningful way to say goodbye. Whether chosen for personal, spiritual, or environmental reasons, this type of memorial provides a unique and deeply moving experience.
Understanding what to expect can bring comfort and clarity during a difficult time.
What Is a Burial at Sea?
A burial at sea is a ceremony in which a loved one’s remains, either cremated or casketed, are respectfully committed to the ocean in accordance with all legal and environmental regulations.
These ceremonies may be:
• Private and attended by family and friends
• Religious or non-religious
• Simple or fully personalized
Because the service takes place on a private chartered vessel, the family or designated representative is responsible for the disposition of the remains during the ceremony. Our crew is present to operate the vessel safely and provide guidance, but the act of scattering or committing the remains is performed by the family or their chosen officiant.
Many families find peace in the natural setting and the symbolism of returning their loved one to the sea.
Before the Ceremony: Planning and Preparation
Proper planning ensures the ceremony goes smoothly and allows families to focus on remembrance rather than logistics.
What you need to bring on board
✔️ Disposition of Los Angeles Human Remains Permit
✔️ Death Certificate
✔️ Cremated remains
✔️ Any personal items for the service, such as music, photos, or memorabilia
Families are responsible for bringing all required documentation and the remains on the day of the service. To help guide you through the process, you can find our burial at sea planning checklist here.
What Happens During a Burial at Sea Ceremony?
Departure and Journey
The ceremony begins as the private yacht departs the harbor. During this time, families may begin preparing the remains for scattering. The journey to the designated scattering location typically takes approximately 20 minutes, providing a calm and reflective start to the service.
The Service
Once the designated location is reached, the captain will stop the vessel and guests may begin the ceremony. As this is a private charter, families have the flexibility to conduct the service in a way that feels most meaningful to them. Depending on the family’s wishes, this may include:
• Words of remembrance
• Prayers or blessings
• Poetry or music
• A moment of silence
Service length will vary depending on the amount of time booked and the type of ceremony planned.
Committal to the Sea
The remains are gently and respectfully released into the ocean by the family or designated individual. Flowers or petals may be scattered on the water, or guests may place flowers individually in commemoration, creating a beautiful and symbolic farewell.
For more ideas on creating a meaningful ceremony, please see our post on how to personalize a burial at sea service.
*An urn is not required to scatter. Guests may bring biodegradable urns or containers if they wish.
After the Ceremony
Following the service, families may spend additional time on the water before returning to shore, depending on the booking time. The private charter setting allows for quiet reflection, shared memories, and personal moments of closure.
Some families choose to commemorate the location privately or return annually to honor their loved one.
What is the process to book a burial at sea?
STEP 1
Pick a yacht that can accommodate your guests and is your vibe
STEP 2
Check availability for your preferred date
STEP 3
Confirm the booking by paying for the service
STEP 4
Let us guide your family through a beautiful service
Los Angeles Yacht Charter
Los Angeles Yacht Charter is the premier yacht rental company in Southern California. We offer a wide variety of services to help tourists and locals alike enjoy the beautiful moments that the ocean has to offer. Whether you're looking for a private yacht rental for your next vacation, a romantic sunset cruise, a burial at sea, a private fishing trip or a passenger boat rental for a large group, we have you covered.
We understand that not everyone is familiar with the ins and outs of renting a yacht, which is why we offer a concierge service to help you with everything from booking your charter to planning your itinerary. We want you to relax and enjoy your time on the water, so let us take care of the details!
Carbon Neutral Yacht Charters
Los Angeles Yacht Charter works with SeaTrees who works directly with high-quality reforestation and forest protection projects around the world. Each of these projects sequester carbon, while also providing significant social and ecosystem benefits.
Meaning that you are not just offsetting your carbon footprint, you’re having a positive impact on the ocean with every charter booked. Making you #OceanPositive
Need help?
Our representatives would be more than happy to help you make the right decision for your family. Fill in the form below and submit. One of our representatives will then get in contact with you within 24 hours to help you with your questions.
More info on burial at sea and ash scattering services
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.
What is a bareboat charter?
A bareboat charter is a vessel leased by the owner to another person (the “charterer”) without a captain or crew.
> It is considered a recreational vessel and may not be subject to Passenger Vessel inspections by the U.S. Coast Guard.
> Once the charterer takes possession, they are entirely responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel and its passengers.
> The owner of the vessel is generally not responsible for collisions, personal injuries, or crew wages.
> The charterer is responsible for the crew, fuel, insurance, maintenance, repairs, and any liability associated with the vessel.
> The charterer may select and pay crew and may discharge the master or any crew member without referral to the owner.
> The owner may require general proficiency standards for the crew based on federal statutes.
> Charterers and passengers are solely responsible for understanding and agreeing to the terms of any bareboat charter agreement.
