BURIALS AT SEA
Alternatives to traditional burials are gaining popularity for many families for reasons ranging from personal preference to concerns about environmental sustainability. Burials at sea are among the most popular options to traditional land burial for their simplicity, for the undeniable poignance of the experience, and for the connection to a world beyond ourselves that the ocean experience can inspire, both in life and in death.
Seacoast Maritime Charters, LLC provides a safe and respectful service for families and friends who wish to scatter the cremated remains of loved ones at sea. Our licensed captains and capable crew are experienced in the particulars of these important events, and we do our best to make them as comfortable and meaningful as possible. Our boat is Coast Guard inspected, fully insured for passenger service, and includes all required safety equipment.
Regulations mandate that scatterings take place at least three miles from shore. Our stable and sturdy vessel is a perfect platform for groups of up to 28 people for such trips (a larger brand new boat with capacity for up to 49 people will be available in early summer, 2022). Most trips depart from Kittery Point, Maine and take about two hours in total. Commitment location options are offshore of coastal communities from Rye, New Hampshire to York, Maine- and include the Isles of Shoals. Locations offshore of more distant towns can be arranged at additional cost.
We are equipped with marine toilet, bluetooth sound system and an inside heated space that accommodates up to twenty people for our guests to use.
Our straightforward and low-key approach allows time at the offshore site for memorials and remembrances to suit the needs of each event. Most of our customers prefer to provide their own refreshments, and to manage the commitment service themselves (see our FAQ page for refreshment suggestions). In these cases, we provide advice, support and guidance, but leave the details to the family ( please note that we are not licensed to provide and serve alcoholic beverages, but guests are permitted to bring them on the vessel themselves).
Family members often bring flowers which are released into the Ocean at the commitment site.
The offshore experience provides a memorable setting for readings, poetry and the informal sharing of stories and memories which can add great value to the experience. Remains are committed to the water directly or in a variety of available containers designed for the purpose, and provided by the family.
As part of our basic service, we take care of the required federal reporting, and provide an Ocean Burial Certificate indicating the geographic coordinates and other details of the commitment event.
We can also provide enhanced services as desired. These includes arrangement by Seacoast Maritime Charters of refreshments, flowers, music (bagpipes, guitar), dove releases, ministerial program organization, and access to the Star Island Chapel at the Isles of Shoals on a customized basis and for additional cost.
We encourage families and friends to carefully consider the preferred framework for the commitment event well in advance to get the most from the experience for all involved. We are available to consult with you to help make this happen. We are also pleased to work with your clergy and/or bereavement professionals to create the most appropriate and meaningful experience possible.
Over the past years we have had the privilege to assist scores of families in offshore commitment ceremonies. Every family is unique, and we strive to provide the flexibility and attention required to meet individual needs and final wishes.
The Ocean experience is both awesome and unpredictable. Winds and sea conditions vary day to day. We recommend that concerned guests consider using medications such as Dramamine, scopolamine patches or similar medications according to provider recommendations- and well in advance of departure time for best effect. Ginger candies and drinks can also be helpful to maintain a happy equilibrium throughout the trip.
Basic pricing starts at $1000.00 for groups up to 14 people. Quotes for larger groups are based on total passenger count and additional services requested.
Please contact Captain Jack Farrell to discuss your goals and concerns.