00:03What if your final resting place wasn't a cemetery, but the open ocean?
00:08No headstone, no crowded plots, just endless water, peace and freedom.
00:15And surprisingly, it can cost a lot less than a traditional funeral.
00:19Today, we're talking about burial at sea, how it works, your options, and what it actually costs.
00:26Welcome to the Funeral Channel Network, brought to you by the Funeral Program Site,
00:32your trusted resource for funeral planning, memorial design, and guidance when you need it most.
00:39So what is burial at sea?
00:41Burial at sea is the placement of a loved one's remains into the ocean in a respectful, regulated way.
00:48There are two main options, cremation with ashes scattered at sea,
00:53full-body burial in a casket or shroud.
00:57Both are legal in the U.S. but must follow EPA guidelines, typically at least 3 nautical miles from shore.
01:05Cremation burial at sea is by far the most popular and most affordable option.
01:12Here's how it works.
01:13After cremation, the ashes are either scattered directly into the ocean or placed in a biodegradable urn that dissolves.
01:22Families can choose two types of services, unattended with no family present, typically around $100 to $400.
01:31Then there's attended, where the family is present and on the boat.
01:35This option usually costs between $1,000 to $5,000 and up, depending on the boat size and location.
01:44Most families choose attended services so they can say a few words, play music, toss flowers, and share a moment
01:52of reflection together.
01:53Some providers even give GPS coordinates so you can return later to the place of sea burial.
02:00The full-body burial at sea option is less common but very meaningful.
02:06In this case, the body is placed in a specially designed biodegradable casket or shroud that will sink naturally.
02:15Requirements include at least 3 nautical miles offshore,
02:21deep water, often 600 feet or more.
02:25Okay, so what are we looking at cost-wise?
02:28Typically $5,000 to $10,000.
02:31Some high-end services can go even higher depending on distance and ceremony details.
02:37The ceremony is done on a boat, similar to a traditional service, but more intimate and private.
02:45Okay, let's put it all together so you understand the full picture.
02:49Basic sea burial, cremation plus simple service, is about $1,800 to $6,000 total.
02:59For a private boat charter, you're looking at approximately $1,000 to $4,500 depending on distance and time.
03:08You'll also need to factor in permits and fees, which range from $100 to $1,000.
03:16If you compare it to a traditional burial, which can easily run $7,000 to $20,000 or more, this
03:24is often a more affordable option.
03:26You should keep in mind these prices are estimates as of the making of this video, which is in 2026
03:34and will vary depending on your location.
03:37So why do families choose a burial at sea?
03:40For some, it's personal, love of the ocean, military or Navy background, fishing, sailing, or coastal life.
03:50For others, it's practical, lower cost, no cemetery plot needed, more environmentally friendly.
03:59And for many, it just feels more peaceful.
04:03Burial at sea is available to both military personnel and civilians, though the process differs slightly for each.
04:11For members of the U.S. military, such as those who served in the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and
04:18certain veterans,
04:19burial at sea may be conducted by the military at no cost, provided eligibility requirements are met.
04:26This typically includes active duty members, retirees, and honorably discharged veterans.
04:33The service is formal and respectful, often including full military honors depending on the individual's rank and service history.
04:42Civilians can also choose burial at sea through licensed providers who specialize in ocean memorial services.
04:50These may include scattering cremated remains or full-body burials using specially prepared caskets or biodegradable shrouds
05:00following environmental regulations set by agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
05:07Civilian services are usually arranged privately and can be customized to include family attendance, readings, or ceremonial elements
05:17offering a meaningful and peaceful farewell on the open water.
05:23A burial at sea offers something truly unique, freedom, simplicity, and a deep connection to nature.
05:31And in many cases, it's not only meaningful, but more affordable than traditional options.
05:37If you're considering it, take time to understand your options and create a service that truly reflects your loved one's
05:44life.
05:45Thank you for watching. I'll see you in the next video. Until then, take care and bye for now.
