Burial at Sea: Cruise Guidelines
Introduction: A Meaningful Final Resting Place on the Ocean
For those who have spent their lives drawn to the water, the idea of a final resting place at sea can provide a sense of peace and closure. Whether a loved one has always had a special connection to the ocean or simply wished for an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial, burial at sea offers a beautiful and respectful option.
Increasingly, families are choosing to scatter ashes in the open ocean as a way of honoring their loved ones. This practice is becoming more accessible, especially with cruise lines offering services to facilitate the scattering of ashes while cruising the seas. However, before setting sail, it is important to understand the guidelines, regulations, and logistics involved in carrying out a burial at sea.
This guide will provide an overview of the process, including the legal requirements for burial at sea, cruise line guidelines, and the benefits of choosing the ocean as a final resting place. We’ll also cover practical steps to ensure a meaningful, memorable ceremony for those seeking a peaceful goodbye in the vastness of the ocean.
The Legal Requirements for Burial at Sea
Regulations Under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act
In the United States, burial at sea is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). The EPA oversees the practice to ensure it is done responsibly, protecting both the marine environment and the dignity of the deceased.
Three Nautical Miles from Shore: A key requirement for burial at sea is that the ashes must be scattered at least three nautical miles (about 5.6 km) from the nearest land. This ensures that the scattering does not impact coastal ecosystems or human activities near shore.
Only Ashes and Biodegradable Items: The law specifies that only the cremated remains (ashes) of the deceased can be scattered. Any items used in the scattering (such as biodegradable urns or containers) must also be non-toxic and biodegradable. Non-biodegradable objects such as plastics, metals, or chemicals are prohibited because they can harm marine life and pollute the ocean.
Reporting Requirements: After scattering the ashes, the EPA requires that you notify the agency within 30 days. This includes providing the name of the deceased, the date and location (with coordinates) of the burial, and the name of the vessel that performed the ceremony. This ensures compliance with EPA regulations and helps preserve the integrity of the practice.
Cruise Line Policies for Burial at Sea
Cruise lines that offer burial at sea services have their own sets of rules and procedures. Whether you choose to scatter ashes on a public cruise ship or a private vessel, it’s important to understand what each cruise line allows.
Requesting Permission in Advance
The first step in arranging a burial at sea with a cruise line is obtaining permission. Most cruise lines require that families request the service well in advance—typically at least several days to a week before departure. This allows the cruise company to coordinate the logistics and ensure that the proper preparations are made for the ceremony. But we recommend doing this step as far in advance as possible.
For example, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line all offer burial at sea services, though the specifics may vary. Some lines require submission of official documents, including:
The death certificate of the deceased
Cremation certificate verifying that the remains are cremated
Information on the desired location and timing of the ash scattering
Once permission is granted, the cruise line will typically assign a designated area for the ceremony. This area is often a private part of the deck, offering the family privacy and respect during the ceremony.
Choosing the Right Ship and Itinerary
Not all cruise ships or itineraries are suitable for burial at sea. Some cruise lines, for example, may only offer this service on specific routes or ships. Additionally, the location of the scattering will need to meet the legal requirement of being at least three nautical miles from land.
If the scattering is part of a specific memorial voyage, cruise lines often make the experience as meaningful as possible by providing a ceremony led by the captain or crew. Families may also receive a commemorative certificate that officially acknowledges the burial at sea.
Commemorative Ceremonies at Sea
Many cruise lines recognize the emotional importance of burial at sea and offer commemorative services. While the specific ceremony may vary from cruise to cruise, most lines offer the option of having a ship's officer (typically the captain or a senior crew member) lead the ceremony. This is an opportunity for family members to gather together in a respectful and peaceful setting as they scatter the ashes.
The captain often reads a few words in honor of the deceased, followed by a brief moment of silence. Some families also choose to personalize the ceremony with readings, music, or a special tribute. For those who wish to be as involved as possible, many cruise lines offer personalized ash scattering, where the family may take part in physically releasing the ashes into the ocean.
Why Choose Burial at Sea? The Benefits of a Final Resting Place on the Ocean
A Peaceful, Beautiful Location
For many people, the idea of returning to nature—particularly to the ocean—is deeply comforting. Whether they spent their lives living near the coast, enjoyed sailing, or simply had an affinity for the sea, a burial at sea offers a beautiful, peaceful final resting place.
The ocean is a symbol of eternity and renewal, offering an expansive setting where the ashes dissolve into the water, uniting the deceased with the vast, endless horizon. This symbolic connection to nature is why many people see burial at sea as a final celebration of life.
Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable
Burial at sea is often seen as a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional burial or even cremation. Unlike conventional burial practices, which involve non-biodegradable materials like caskets, vaults, and embalming fluids, burial at sea requires no land use and has a minimal environmental impact.
Additionally, the remains themselves—mostly mineral and bone ash—pose no harm to marine life. As families scatter the ashes, they are returned to nature in a process that benefits the ecosystem, as the ashes gradually dissolve and become part of the water, enriching the ocean’s natural cycle.
A Unique Memorial Experience
The ceremony of scattering ashes at sea also offers a unique opportunity to honor a loved one in a way that is personal and meaningful. It provides an intimate setting for families to reflect on the person’s life, share memories, and say a final goodbye in a way that many find more fulfilling than traditional ceremonies.
Many families choose burial at sea because it aligns with the lifestyle or values of the deceased. For those who have always been passionate about the ocean, sailing, or nature, the final act of scattering their ashes on the open water becomes a symbolic gesture of freedom and peace.
Planning the Perfect Burial at Sea Ceremony
Choosing the Right Time and Place
Selecting the right location for the ash scattering is a deeply personal decision. Some families may opt to scatter ashes in a place the deceased loved, such as a favorite coastal town, while others prefer to choose a random but equally beautiful location in the ocean. No matter the choice, it’s important to work with the cruise line to determine a suitable location and time for the ceremony.
When choosing the time for the ceremony, families should also consider the weather conditions. Calm seas and clear skies will make the ceremony more peaceful and meaningful, ensuring that the ashes are scattered gracefully.
Incorporating Personal Touches
Personalizing the ceremony is a wonderful way to make the final farewell even more special. Families might choose to incorporate:
Favorite music that the deceased enjoyed
Poems or readings that hold sentimental value
Pictures or objects that remind family members of the deceased
For families who choose a specific time of day, such as dawn or dusk, the setting sun or sunrise can add a beautiful, poignant backdrop to the ceremony.
Conclusion: A Final Voyage of Love and Peace
Burial at sea is a meaningful, respectful, and beautiful option for families seeking to honor their loved one’s final wishes. With cruise lines making this service more accessible, families can easily fulfill these wishes while ensuring a memorable and dignified ceremony. By understanding the legal guidelines, choosing the right time and place, and personalizing the ceremony, a burial at sea becomes a final journey of love and peace, providing a fitting tribute to a life well lived.
