Return to the Ocean: Your Complete Beginner’s Guide to Sea Burial Options in 2024

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most profound experiences, and choosing the right farewell is deeply personal. For those who felt a special connection to the ocean — or who simply seek a more natural, serene, and eco-conscious alternative to traditional burial — an ocean committal may be the most meaningful tribute of all. If you’re new to the concept, you’re not alone. More families than ever are exploring burials at sea as a dignified, beautiful, and increasingly popular way to say goodbye.

What Is a Burial at Sea?

A burial at sea is the disposal of human remains in the ocean, normally from a ship, boat, or aircraft, and is regularly performed by navies as well as private citizens in many countries. It is a unique form of burial that many cultures still practice today, and it is a legal alternative to traditional burial in the U.S. within certain guidelines. While it is more common among active-duty members and Navy veterans, it is also an appealing choice for civilians with a special attachment to the ocean.

Who Can Have a Sea Burial?

Anyone can choose a sea burial — you don’t have to be a military member. The most common type of burial at sea today is the scattering of cremated remains, but full body committal is also an option. There are two main ways to request a burial at sea: through the Navy or through a civilian charter company. Civilian ocean burials are when civilians charter a private boat, hire a funeral director to come along, and bury a loved one on the water.

Your Ocean Committal Options Explained

When planning a sea burial, families typically choose from several types of committals. Understanding each option helps you make the most informed and meaningful decision:

• Cremated Remains Scattering: There are not many regulations related to scattering cremated ashes at sea. They can be scattered at any depth, but it must be done three or more nautical miles from shore. Flowers or urns are permitted as long as they are 100% biodegradable.
• Biodegradable Urn Burial: There are two main ways to bury cremated remains at sea: in a biodegradable urn or by scattering the cremains. Biodegradable urns made for water burials float for a few minutes, then sink into the water and slowly disintegrate.
• Full Body Burial: According to federal law, a full body burial at sea can only be completed in an area that’s at least 600 feet deep and at least three miles from shore. The body is respectfully placed in a specially prepared weighted shroud or casket designed to ensure a natural and permanent descent to the ocean floor, and these materials must be biodegradable and free of substances that could harm the marine environment.
• Attended vs. Unattended Services: Offerings can range from simple, unattended ash scatterings to fully attended ceremonies with custom elements. For families who cannot travel to the water, an unattended scattering performed by professionals provides a peaceful and respectful alternative.

Understanding the Legal Requirements

Sea burials in the United States are regulated to protect both the dignity of the deceased and the health of marine ecosystems. Here are the key rules every family should know:

• The MPRSA general permit authorizes burial at sea of non-cremated human remains at locations at least three nautical miles from land and in ocean waters at least 600 feet deep.
• Cremated remains shall be buried in or on ocean waters of any depth, provided that such burial takes place at least three nautical miles from land.
• You need to contact the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency within 30 days of a planned sea burial event and fill out a simple form.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) regulate ocean burials under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act, and permits are required for the committal of human remains to the ocean.
• Placement of materials which are not readily decomposable in the marine environment, such as plastic or metal flowers and wreaths, tombs, tombstones, monuments, or mausoleums, is not permitted.

A licensed funeral director or authorized vessel operator must oversee the ceremony to ensure all federal requirements are met, as these regulations exist to protect marine ecosystems and ensure dignified treatment of the deceased.

What to Expect During the Ceremony

On the day of the ceremony, the vessel departs from a coastal port and travels to the designated burial location. Once at sea, family members gather on deck for a meaningful service that may include readings, music, prayers, or personal memories shared about the deceased. The actual committal of remains is handled with utmost dignity and respect, often with family members participating directly.

Holding a service at sea allows family and friends to gather, reflect, and share memories in a meaningful environment. For many, the act of coming together on the water becomes an important part of the grieving and healing process.

Why Families Are Choosing Sea Burials

In just the past 10 years, the percentage of people opting for cremation instead of traditional burial has risen exponentially, above 70% in some areas. Along with this shift, sea burials have grown significantly in appeal for several compelling reasons:

• Eco-Friendly: Eco-friendly sea burials minimize environmental impact, aligning with the values of those committed to preserving nature.
• Personalization: Sea burials offer flexibility in personalization, allowing families to honor their loved ones in a unique and fitting way, whether for the serene environment or the environmental considerations.
• Cost-Effective: One of the main reasons sea burials are gaining popularity is the high cost of traditional burial services, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 for a coffin alone.
• A Lasting Connection: Families are provided with photographs or GPS coordinates to remember the exact location, creating a lasting connection with their loved ones.

Meet Eternal Peace Sea Burials: Serving Nassau County & Queens, NY

At Eternal Peace Sea Burials, the team understands the profound significance of saying goodbye to a loved one. Located in the serene regions of Nassau County and Queens, NY, the company specializes in providing dignified sea burial services with a commitment to compassion, professionalism, and respect.

Their team of experienced professionals ensures that every detail is handled with care, providing a peaceful final resting place amidst the beauty of the ocean. Knowing this is a difficult time, they are there to support families every step of the way, with services designed to provide a sense of closure and peace so families can focus on celebrating the life of their loved one.

Arranging a service with Eternal Peace Sea Burials is designed to be as straightforward and respectful as possible, beginning with assisting families in understanding and complying with all necessary legal requirements, including obtaining the proper permits and adhering to environmental regulations. They are committed to ensuring that each burial reflects the individual’s life and values, with a professional and deeply compassionate approach that recognizes the importance of personalized and respectful service.

Ready to Begin Planning?

Whether you are pre-planning your own final wishes or arranging a farewell for someone you love, understanding your ocean committal options is the first and most important step. Families should work with experienced funeral service providers who are familiar with all compliance requirements and can guide them through the permit process seamlessly. With the right team by your side, a sea burial can be one of the most peaceful, meaningful, and memorable farewells imaginable — a return to the ocean, and to eternal peace.

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