Burial & Disposal of Ashes at Sea

Burial at Sea – A Unique Final Resting Place

Introduction: 

Burial at sea is a time-honoured tradition practiced by various cultures around the world. It involves committing a deceased body to the ocean, either as a part of religious beliefs, military honours, or personal preferences. This option offers a serene and meaningful way to return to nature.

How Does It Work? A burial at sea typically involves:

Choosing a Vessel:

The body is usually placed in a biodegradable casket or wrapped in a shroud.

Location: 

Regulations dictate that a burial must occur at a location offshore. In the UK it is following locations:

• Newhaven, East Sussex
• The Needles Spoil Ground, Isle of Wight
• Tynemouth, Northumberland

Legal Considerations

Many countries, such as the U.S. and the U.K., require permits from authorities like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

The Deceased

The deceased’s body is not allowed to be embalmed and only to be covered with a biodegradable covering no canvas. A minimum of two DNA samples are to be taken and stored, this is in the rare case the body is washed ashore and needs to be identified.

The Coffin

After you have received your licence for the burial, a description of the coffin has to be lodged with the licence authority and the licence authority has the right to inspect the coffin. Holes have to be drilled through the coffin evenly spaced. Certain wood for the construction are not allowed for instance plywood. A weight of no less than 200 kg is evenly spaced, if the deceased is heavier, then extra weights are used determined by a formula set up by the Licensing authority. 

Environmental Impact: While burial at sea can be an eco-friendly option when using biodegradable materials, it is carefully regulated to avoid environmental harm. Governments enforce strict guidelines to ensure the body or materials decompose naturally and don’t pollute marine ecosystems.

Conclusion: Burial at sea provides a peaceful and meaningful end to life. It’s an option for those who wish to honour their connection with the sea, ensuring their final resting place reflects their spirit of adventure and connection to nature.

Burial at Sea

Disposal of Ashes at Sea - A gentle Farewell

Introduction: 

Disposing of ashes at sea is a beautiful and symbolic way to say goodbye to a loved one, allowing them to rest in the vast expanse of the ocean. This ceremony is often chosen for its deep emotional and spiritual significance, offering a sense of peace and connection to nature.

Why Choose to Scatter Ashes at Sea?

• The ocean symbolises eternity, freedom, and nature, making it an appealing final resting place for many.
• It can be an alternative for those who want a more informal or private ceremony outside of traditional burial sites

The Process:

• Choosing a Location: Many people choose a special place that held significance for the deceased. 
• Legal Requirements: Although scattering ashes at sea is more flexible than burial, it's still regulated. Most countries allow it but may require a notification to local environmental agencies or adherence to specific guidelines.
• Ceremony: The scattering ceremony can be personalised, with readings, music, or simply a quiet moment. Families may choose to release flowers or eco-friendly mementos alongside the ashes.

Common Traditions:

• Many families take to the water on a boat or from a cliffside or a local beach.
• Some choose to hold a small service or gathering before scattering the ashes.

Conclusion: 

The disposal of ashes at sea is a serene way to honour a loved one’s connection to nature and the ocean. It offers a touching farewell and an opportunity to let them rest in an environment of beauty, expansiveness, and tranquility.

Disposal of Ashes at Sea - A Gentle Farewell

The following two accounts of scattering ashes from a boat and from the shore, convey the solemnity and unique nature of these ceremonies.

1. A Recent Scattering of the Ashes from a Boat:

A recent scattering of ashes took place from a boat in Plymouth Sound. The vessel, a Humber 40, is frequently used for such ceremonies.

Family members and friends assembled at the marina entrance carrying the deceased ashes and red roses. The captain met them and guided them down and on to the boat.

After leaving the marina, the group discussed who would pour the ashes into the sea. Each family member and friend was given a red rose as part of the ceremony. Once the boat reached the agreed location, the captain positioned the boat facing into the wind. At this moment, two family members poured the ashes into the sea from the back of the boat. It was a solemn and reflective moment.

Afterward, the boat came to a stop, allowing each person to throw a red rose into the water, one by one. This gave everyone a quiet, personal moment to reflect or say a prayer, creating a serene and poignant conclusion to the ceremony.

 2. A Recent Scattering of Ashes from the Shore:

This scattering of ashes took place along the shore, with the family and friends choosing to release the ashes in a tidal estuary.

The ashes were placed in a plastic bag with small holes at the bottom. As the group walked along the beach, the ashes gradually sifted out of the bag and onto the sand, to be carried away by the sea. This simple yet poignant act allowed for a reflective and personal moment for all involved.