BODY BURIAL AT SEA…

While unfamiliar to most, (non-cremated) body burial at sea is allowed under the jurisdiction of the EPA.  This type of service requires a solid wood or metal casket for containment.  Prior to ocean interment, Maritime Burials will prepare the casket to the required U.S. Coastguard/Navy guidelines.  Additionally, interment must be carried out in approved federal waters. 

Maritime Burials, specializes in providing this type of ocean interment.  During the voyage, service and emersion, the casket will remain discretely veiled.  For military, the casket will be respectfully covered with the veteran supplied American Flag during the voyage and service.  The casket is gently lowered below the water surface before its release for final committal.

Our Body Burials are conducted by our crew and are provided as unattended due to the distance and unpredictable sea conditions.  Your family can designate one family member to ride on vessel and serve as witness at no additional charge.  Attended services require a separate boat charter service to accompany burial.  Maritime Burials will be happy to assist in helping your family make these additional charter arrangements.

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT…

More and more conscientious citizens are looking for ways to live in harmony with our planet.  The death care industry is also looking for ways to incorporate avenues for those with environmental concerns.  While very few of our activities are entirely green; we believe burial at sea represents a major step in this direction.  Traditional burial permanently ties up valuable land and cremation uses significant amounts of energy, expels carbon monoxide and other undesirable particulates into the atmosphere.  Studies have shown that due to grooming and care; over time, traditional burial leaves a greater carbon footprint than even cremation.

Non-Cremated burial at sea offers a more natural way to return our body to the elements.  With the help of the natural macrobiotic processes and time, even the required wood or metal casket will break down and return to its basic mineral elements.

Your funeral provider will be helpful in explaining all of your burial at sea options.