Map view
Nearby on the Southeast & Mid-Atlantic
What to expect in Cape Charles
Your captain meets your group at the dock, takes you to the scattering spot, and gives you time for words, music, flowers or silence. Afterward, the captain records the coordinates of the scattering so your family always knows where it took place. Biodegradable urns and flowers can be ordered from our memorial store and delivered before your service.
Scattering rules in Cape Charles
Captain license
Not required
Inside Cape Charles waters
Not settled
Chesapeake Bay (inside waters); Atlantic Ocean past the Bay mouth / off the Eastern Shore barrier islands
Ocean
3+ nautical miles from land
Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.
Cape Charles harbor is on the Bay side, so every EPA ocean scattering means running south and out the Bay mouth past Fisherman Island, then 3 nm beyond land. Rough estimate: about 15-20 nm each way; confirm on NOAA chart. The Bay itself is inside waters with no clear state rule. Watch the Chesapeake Bay entrance naval restricted area (33 CFR 334.320) and the Myrtle Island Air Force range off the ocean side (33 CFR 334.330). Death certificate copies: Eastern Shore Health District (Northampton County).
Full Virginia guide: permits, paperwork and sourcesLast checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.
Questions families ask about Cape Charles
How much does a burial at sea cost in Cape Charles?
The boat listed in Cape Charles, VA starts at $899 for a private charter. The price depends on the boat, the length of the trip and the size of your group. You send the captain your date and wishes, receive a written offer, and pay only if you accept it; an 11.5% booking fee is added at checkout.
How many guests can come on a memorial cruise in Cape Charles?
The boat listed in Cape Charles takes up to 13 guests. Every charter is private, so only your family and friends are aboard.
How far out do boats go for a burial at sea from Cape Charles?
In the ocean, ashes are scattered at least 3 nautical miles from land under the federal EPA rule, at any depth. From Cape Charles, boats head out to the Atlantic Ocean past the Bay mouth, off the Eastern Shore barrier islands. No permit is needed in advance; the captain reports the scattering to the EPA within 30 days.
Can ashes be scattered in the bay or harbor at Cape Charles?
Bays, harbors and rivers are inside waters, so the federal ocean rule does not cover them, and Virginia has no clear rule for scattering there. That is why captains in Cape Charles hold the ceremony out in the open ocean, where the rule is clear.
What do I need to bring for a burial at sea in Virginia?
The ashes and the crematory release form. Your captain will confirm anything else they need before the day.
What can we put in the water with the ashes?
Only things that break down naturally: the ashes, loose flowers or petals, and a biodegradable water urn if you would like one. No plastic, balloons, wreath frames or glass. Biodegradable urns and flowers can be ordered from our memorial store before your service.
How do I book a burial at sea in Cape Charles?
Choose a boat above and send the captain your preferred date, time and number of guests, along with anything you would like for the ceremony. The captain replies with a written offer, usually within a day. Nothing is charged until you accept it, and if plans change you can ask for a new date first.