How to arrange for an attended service for your family:

The easiest way to arrange for and get details on arranging a family attended scattering at sea is to fill out our brief Feedback Form. You will find the option to request a range of dates, your preferred location, get information on pricing, etc., or receive a direct phone call.

For your convenience, we have put the general steps here for you to get an idea of what is included and what you can expect. Remember, these are general steps, since each family is different, and services may differ from port to port! During the entire process, we are available to answer questions and support your decisions.

  • Request a price and date (Go to Contact Form)
  • We schedule the boat and hold the date for you.
  • Send a deposit (the amount to be discussed first ), and any other paperwork we may need, such as the death certificate, out of state transit permit and authorization from primary next of kin [why do we need these]
  • You can notify us if you would like us to purchase any flowers or a wreath, or any other biodegradable items for the day of your family's service. Depending on the location and / or boat, some floral items may be at no additional charge - please ask...
  • Arrange for your travel if coming from out of town. We can help by recommending lodging/car rental/restaurants, etc., just let us know what you want to do. Tip: It is best if you are traveling to allow for additional days in town so that if unexpected weather or marine conditions occur, there will be time to reschedule your service within a day or two.
  • California: We will usually obtain the necessary Permits at no charge; If the death occurred in California, however, we may need to contact the mortuary who issued the permit to amend the death certificate and get a new permit - they may charge a fee for this. Tip: If you already have the correct permit, you can receive a discount.
  • We will send you instructions, suggestions, and directions with a map before your scheduled date. These papers will have emergency mobile phone numbers on them so that you can reach someone when en route to the boat if necessary.
  • We will board the boat and proceed offshore about 1 mile to 3 miles - depending on the port and laws - requests for specific locations are welcome.
  • On some of our boats, you are welcome to bring your own food/drink items. On others, there is a galley where food and drink may be purchased. Tip: Because our trips are usually 2 hours or less, it is not necessary to have food and drink on the boat. Many families will gather afterward at a nearby restaurant to enjoy a meal while on land.
  • When we've reached the destination, we will stop the boat and there will scatter the ashes, recording the Latitude  and Longitude for the burial place. You can lay the flowers or other biodegradable items at this time. If possible the engines can be turned off, but this is always at the captain's discretion.
  • Many families bring along a personally written eulogy for the deceased. Others read the loved one's favorite poetry. If you want to bring something to read during the service, it is recommended to print it in 14 or 16 point font for easier reading on the boat.
  • You are encouraged to do whatever best suits your family during this time. We will not interfere with your service, and will be ready and willing to help and/or participate in case you need us for anything.
  • When you are ready, we will then proceed back to shore.
  • We will mail the Memorial Certificate, noting the date and location of the final resting place.

Would you like to request pricing and/or availability? Go to the contact form

We hope this overview has helped you. Again, these are general steps. and we take all special requests into consideration.