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Scattering ashes in the ocean is a heartwarming way to honor your loved ones that have passed and give closure to a life well lived. Schedule your special time with Les George, a sensitive and accommodating Captain.
The ashes are transferred from the urn (container) you bring them in, to a medium-sized wicker basket lined with biodegradable paper. The ashes are then covered with flower petals. (Customarily, some of the flowers brought by the attendees.) The basket is lowered by the Captain, with voluntary assistance from family members, into the ocean. The ashes sink, and the flowers float to provide marker of interment. Family and friends can participate in “lowering the ashes to the deep” by assisting in letting go of the rope.
Yes. Weekends are the most convenient time for most people to gather together for the burial at sea ceremony. Services are also available at other times for the convenience and desires of the survivors.
The V.F.W. (Veterans of Foreign Wars) performs sea burial honors for veterans and their families. We have a page on our site that further describes veterans services.
No, unless you desire some special service not usually included in our procedures, there are no hidden charges. Desired special services can be discussed separately and usually accommodated at a minimal additional fee.
Yes, we will attempt to satisfy any special requests provided they are not in violation of governing state or federal statutes.
Yes. Although we are available daily, we would prefer to have you contact us to set up the time and date for the sea scattering. You can give our phone number to others who you feel might attend . . . to receive directions, parking, etc.
Yes. Appointments are usually made to gather attendees at the landing for subsequent departure. Usually arriving 15 minutes before scheduled departure is sufficient.
Yes.
Yes, usually when we are scattering other ashes.
We offer "unattended scattering" service. We receive the ashes by mail from you, promptly conduct the dispersal off the coast of Oceanside, and send you a Letter of Scattering with the date and location of the scattering.
You will find the name and phone number of the V.F.W. in the phone book of the city near the scattering location. The V.F.W. will provide a military honor guard at no charge, however, a donation to cover their personal expenses is appropriate.
We have been scattering ashes at sea for over 20 years without incident. We provide service to many United States mortuaries. We can provide references upon request.
State and Federal laws restrict where ash dispersals are not allowed. The “three-mile limit” is our guideline. Therefore, all ash dispersals will be done beyond the “three-mile limit” offshore. It usually takes about 20 minutes to reach that area.
Usually 1½ hours, depending on the “service to be conducted” arrangements made prior to departure.
It is our policy to scatter ashes as soon as possible after receipt, usually within the week. You will receive a Memorial Letter indicating the date and location of scattering.
Many people choose to keep the ashes of a loved one at home for a while (maybe even years) before feeling the need to make a decision about their ultimate placement. This is very common. Call us for assistance. Is sending the ashes by US Postal Service a proven and reliable method?
Yes, it’s been proven to be the best, fastest, and most reliable method. Some other delivery providers will not accept ashes due to liability restrictions.
Most ashes are shipped to us via registered mail. The use of United States Postal Service’s registered mail is by far the most secure form of transportation. The shipment is protected by the United States Government. It is only proper that every precaution is taken to protect this transportation of human ashes. The transportation of them at a guarded government facility assures they are safe, and protected.
Yes, high railings around the boat, and non-skid decks help keep children safe. All children under 90 pounds are provided with life vests for the trip.
Payment by personal check, money order or cashier's check will be expected when reservation is made. Make check payable to Capt.Les George.
Payment is by personal check, money order or cashier’s check. We do not take credit cards and discourage sending cash.
Family and friends customarily bring “cut flowers” for tossing into the ocean immediately after the ashes are lowered. Wreaths are also sometimes used, but the wreath must be completely biodegradable. Styrofoam wreaths are not approved for placing in the ocean.
Our primary scattering area is off the coast of Oceanside, Southern California.
Call me, Captain Les George 760 212-2963. I’ll be glad to talk to you.
For unattended scattering, we need a death certificate from the County Health Department from the county of death, and a burial permit from the County Vital Statistics Office at the place of disposition. We need our Authorization for Scattering form for attended and unattended scatterings. The Authorization for Scattering ashes form can be downloaded.
- Is the boat selected for your group Coast Guard certified to safely carry the number of people in your party?
- Does the company carry insurance?
- Will the burial be performed within 30 days?
- Are those involved in burial at sea licensed U.S. Coast Guard Masters?
- Are all your questions answered to your satisfaction?
Pacific Coast Sail Charters has met these requirements for 20 years. In these times when personal service is often difficult to find, we trust you will find our service to your satisfaction.
Wear warm clothes, preferable wind-proof, non-skid shoes, a head cover and sunglasses. complete list
Your best source is your local funeral director. He has all the information you need to make an appropriate decision about cremation and scattering of ashes. His experience can guide you throughout the entire process.
The reasons vary from person to person and family to family. Generally, people select scattering of ashes at sea because they want to return to nature what nature created.
If you are concerned about becoming sea sick, we recommend considering taking a dose of anti-motion sickness medication as the waves do cause a little bit of rocking.
The boat is exclusivly yours for the cruise and memorial service. Family and friends may conduct whatever type of memorial service they wish, and the Captain will perform the scattering ceremony.
Yes, knowing the exact coordinates of the scattering site, we can take you to that spot for any memorial you have in mind. The cost of this special re-visit service is $750.
Call 760 212-2963
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