Choosing Between Scattering and Full Body Sea Burials: Your Complete Guide to Ocean Farewell Options
When considering final arrangements for a loved one who felt a deep connection to the sea, families today have meaningful options that honor both personal wishes and environmental considerations. Sea burials offer a peaceful alternative to traditional cemetery interment, but understanding the differences between scattering cremated remains and full body burial at sea is essential for making the right choice for your family.
Understanding Your Sea Burial Options
There are two primary types of sea burials available to families: scattering of cremated remains and full body burial at sea. The most common method of burial at sea is a scattering of cremated remains. This involves taking cremated ashes out to sea and either scattering them directly on the water’s surface or placing them in a biodegradable container that dissolves in the ocean.
Full body burial at sea, while less common, is also a legal option. Full-body burial at sea is permitted under both U.S. Navy regulations and EPA guidelines. The body must be prepared according to federal requirements and the burial must take place at least three nautical miles offshore in water at least 600 feet deep. Contrary to popular belief, any U.S. citizen may request full-body burial at sea. Most often people think this is just an option for veterans, but that is not the case. Civilian full-body burials can also be arranged with licensed funeral providers and properly equipped vessels.
Legal Requirements and EPA Regulations
Both types of sea burial are governed by strict federal regulations under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). The EPA has issued a general permit under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) to authorize the burial of human remains at sea, including full-body burials and release of cremated remains. The MPRSA general permit authorizes the transportation and burial at sea of non-cremated and cremated human remains in ocean waters under specified conditions.
The key legal requirements include:
- Burial or scattering must take place at least three nautical miles from land in waters at least 600 feet deep. Depth requirement does not apply to scattering.
- Materials used must be biodegradable. This includes flowers, wreaths, and other memorial items.
- The EPA must be notified within 30 days of the burial or scattering.
- Only human remains may be buried or scattered. Remains may not be mixed with medical waste.
For full body burials, additional requirements apply. As per the maritime rules, you should bury your deceased loved one at a minimum depth of 600 ft. Depth requirements are applicable only in the case of full-body ocean burials or casket burial at sea. If using a casket, a requirement of at least 20 2-inch holes are to be drilled into the casket to facilitate rapid sinking and venting of air. Not only is it a requirement of 20 holes, but these holes have to be placed in specific areas of the casket. Eight holes on the top and eight holes on the bottom are to be evenly spaced, and the two ends of the casket are to each have two holes evenly spaced.
Cost Considerations
One of the significant advantages of sea burial is cost-effectiveness compared to traditional funeral services. In general, burial at sea is less expensive than a traditional funeral. To begin, the cost of cremation is lower than other funeral home services.
For scattering services, costs vary widely based on attendance and location. The average cost of an attended water burial at sea ranges from $500 to upwards of $2,000, depending on the time involved, size of boat and number of people attending. For example, a company called New England Burials at Sea that offers ceremonies throughout the country, lists the cost of an unattended ash scattering where family members are not present on the boat at about $1,000. The company’s attended ash scatterings range anywhere from $2,275 to $9,975, depending on the number of passengers on the boat.
Full body burials are more expensive but still competitive with traditional services. Prices for full-body burial at sea by a private company start between $5,000 and $10,000 but increase depending on the length of the journey, number of passengers and any additional services (food, music, flowers, etc.). Unattended and attended full body burials at sea are priced between $9,975 and $10,975. For comparison, the median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial in 2021 was $7,848, according to an NFDA study.
Environmental Benefits
Sea burials offer significant environmental advantages over traditional cemetery burials. Full Body Burials at Sea are considerably less expensive than a traditional funeral and are considered Environmentally Friendly. A burial at sea is not only an option for former sailors or Naval personnel, but an option available to everybody. Our natural burial Full Body Burial at Sea is a way of caring for the dead with minimal environmental impact that aids in the conservation of natural resources.
Traditional burials often involve embalming chemicals, metal caskets, and concrete vaults that don’t decompose naturally. In contrast, sea burials use only biodegradable materials and return the body to the natural cycle without environmental contamination.
Choosing the Right Service Provider
When selecting a sea burial service, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals who understand both the legal requirements and the emotional significance of the ceremony. For families in the Long Island area, Sea Burials Long Island, NY providers like Eternal Peace Sea Burials offer comprehensive services that handle all regulatory compliance while providing compassionate support during this difficult time.
Eternal Peace Sea Burials, serving Nassau County and Queens, NY, exemplifies the professional approach needed for sea burials. Located in the serene regions of Nassau County and Queens, NY, our company specializes in providing dignified sea burial services. With a commitment to compassion, professionalism, and respect, we offer families a tranquil way to honor the memory of their departed loved ones. Our team of experienced professionals ensures that every detail is handled with care, providing a peaceful final resting place amidst the beauty of the ocean.
Planning and Personalization
Modern sea burial services offer extensive personalization options. In our continuous effort to provide meaningful farewells, Eternal Peace Sea Burials now offers personalized memorial services. Understanding the unique life of each individual, we customize services to reflect the personality and wishes of the departed. This can include specialized music playlists, themed decorations aboard the Seaspray, and personalized ceremonies that can range from traditional to non-traditional gatherings.
Families can choose from various ceremony formats, including attended services where family and friends join the voyage, unattended ceremonies where the captain performs the service privately, or shore viewing services where families witness the ceremony from land. Additionally, we offer the option of having a priest present to perform religious rites and prayers, creating a truly personalized tribute. Additionally, we provide the option of having a priest present for your memorial service.
Making Your Decision
The choice between scattering and full body sea burial ultimately depends on personal preferences, religious considerations, budget, and the deceased’s wishes. Scattering offers a simpler, more affordable option that many families find meaningful and accessible. Full body burial provides a more traditional approach while still offering the environmental benefits and oceanic setting that many find comforting.
Both options require careful planning and compliance with federal regulations, making it essential to work with experienced providers who can guide families through the process. Whether you choose the gentle scattering of ashes on ocean waves or the solemn dignity of a full body sea burial, these services offer a meaningful way to honor a life while providing comfort to those left behind.
The ocean’s timeless beauty and vastness provide a fitting final resting place for those who felt drawn to the sea in life, offering families a place of peace and remembrance that connects their loved one with the eternal rhythms of nature.