Burials at Sea – Scattering of Ashes

Burials at Sea

Scattering of Ashes –
An At-Sea Memorial Service Or A Celebration of Life

A burial at sea ceremony may also celebrate the recognition that like life, all bodies of water flow together, connect, and will unite on this earth so that ultimately, a loved ones energy may always be near to those who have passed and those that will someday join in the circle of life.

Contact our Ship Operations Team:
Click Here to send an inquiry.

pilot-burialThe base charter rate is $900.00 for two hours (includes 6% Port charter fee), $300 for each additional hour.

Pilot can accommodate up to 25 passengers.


swiftBoat-burialThe base charter rate is $900.00 for two hours (includes 6% Port charter fee), $300 for each additional hour.

Swift Boat can accommodate up to 25 passengers.


californian-burialThe base charter rate is $2,000.00 for two hours (includes 6% Port charter fee), $800 for each additional hour.

Californian can accommodate up to 50 passengers.


San Salvador Pacific Heritage TourThe base charter rate is $2,000.00 for two hours (includes 6% Port charter fee), $800 for each additional hour.

San Salvador can accommodate up to 45 passengers.


A few options that we feel will be appropriate for consideration of the memorial services.

  • Cannon Salute on Californian or the San Salvador – $125 per shot
  • Scottish Bagpiper aboard – $230
  • Refreshments onboard (food and beverage) – Call for quote
Items we will need:
  • County of San Diego Burial Permit. Click here for instructions. For more information contact SD County by EMAIL or phone (619) 692-5733.
  • In addition, you will also need to supply us with an original Death Certificate which you would obtain from the mortuary, crematorium or the state in which the person had passed.

Historic Origins: The scattering of ashes at sea ceremony is often related to the celebration of the circle of life; whether it be as a ritual or commitment to ones life purpose or passions, or to ultimately devote a solemn commitment with our loved ones from the past or our future. A burial at sea ceremony may also celebrate the recognition that all bodies of water flow together, connect, and will unite on this earth so that ultimately, a loved ones energy may always be near to those who have passed and those that will someday join in the circle of life.

How much time do I need to schedule an Ash Scattering Service or Burial at Sea Ceremony?
The minimum time frame is three days to schedule our vessels, although if you have the necessary documents we will try to accommodate your wishes. Scheduling is based on ship availability, group numbers, and special services.

Why do you depart so early in the day? We depart early, weather and water is most calm during the morning. Plus parking is less of an issues, and free till 10am.

What if I have a large group? The museum has additional vessels available and they vary in price.

Why are forms required? Federal Law and State Law regulations require specific records and standards to be adhered to when performing any burial of remains.

Where do I obtain the required forms? The crematorium of mortuary will provide to you the necessary forms.

What if I or my family does not want to attend the Ash Scattering? You may have the Ashes Scattered by the museum, but you will be required to complete the required forms, plus one additional form. The cost for a non-attended Ash Scattering service is $195.00

All Maritime Museum of San Diego Captains are fully licensed by the United States Coast Guard and are professionally trained. The Museum and its vessels are commercially insured and licensed by the state of California as a “Cremated Remains Disposer”.