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Families may choose to board a vessel with the cremated remains, creating a shared moment of reflection together. For those unable to attend, ashes can be mailed to us securely. We will perform the scattering with equal respect and provide you with documentation.
Every family receives a Certificate of Burial at Sea with the date, time, and precise GPS coordinates of the scattering. This ensures peace of mind that the service was carried out exactly as promised.
In addition, all coordinates and required details are officially reported to the EPA’s online Burial at Sea reporting portal. This ensures full compliance with federal regulations and provides families with confidence that the service was documented with the same care and transparency used for every official sea burial.
In the United States, sea burials are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Ashes must be scattered at least three nautical miles offshore. All services must also use U.S. Coast Guard–approved vessels. At Sea Services, every ceremony is conducted in full compliance with EPA and Coast Guard regulations.
Our captains take safety and conditions seriously. Ceremonies may be rescheduled due to weather, as the sea can change quickly. While this may add a layer of unpredictability, it ensures a safe, serene experience.
Many families bring rose petals, music, or personal readings to make the service uniquely meaningful. Biodegradable urns can also be chosen for a graceful release into the water.
Veterans and their spouses may qualify for burial at sea through the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard. Sea Services also offers tailored veteran programs to honor those who served.
Burials at sea often cost far less than traditional burials. Services through Sea Services typically range around $350–$425 for unattended scatterings, while private charters for families are available upon request.
If mailing cremated remains, families use a secure kit provided by the U.S. Postal Service (Priority Express, with tracking). Sea Services provides clear instructions to make the process as simple and respectful as possible.
Unlike traditional burials that require embalming chemicals, caskets, or large land use, sea burials are natural and environmentally considerate. Using biodegradable urns and flowers ensures no harm to marine ecosystems.
Not every captain or charter service specializes in memorials. Sea Services has been dedicated solely to burials at sea for over 25 years, working with licensed captains nationwide to ensure every family receives compassionate care and professional service.
A burial at sea is more than a ceremony—it’s a moment of closure, reflection, and connection to the natural world. With the right planning and guidance, it can be a peaceful and memorable tribute.
At Sea Services, we’ve guided thousands of families through this process with compassion and professionalism. Every service is conducted on licensed U.S. Coast Guard vessels, families receive a Certificate of Burial at Sea with GPS coordinates, and all required details are reported directly to the EPA’s official Burial at Sea portal for full federal compliance.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you plan a dignified and meaningful sea burial for your loved one.
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