Map view
What to expect in Galveston
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 Galveston
Captain license
Not settled
None found for scattering services
Inside Galveston waters
Allowed
Galveston Bay, West Bay; Gulf of Mexico off Galveston Island via Bolivar Roads
Ocean
3+ nautical miles from land
Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.
Scattering in Galveston Bay is allowed under 716.304. To reach the EPA 3 nm line, boats exit through Bolivar Roads between the jetties and run about 3+ nm offshore. Stay clear of the Houston Ship Channel and Galveston Channel traffic, cruise terminals, and Coast Guard security zones.
Full Texas guide: permits, paperwork and sourcesLast checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.
Questions families ask about Galveston
How much does a burial at sea cost in Galveston?
The 3 boats listed in Galveston, TX start at $450, and the highest starting price is $625, for a private charter of 2 hours or more. 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 Galveston?
Boats in Galveston take up to 6 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 Galveston?
In the ocean, ashes are scattered at least 3 nautical miles from land under the federal EPA rule, at any depth. From Galveston, boats head out to the Gulf of Mexico off Galveston Island via Bolivar Roads. 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 Galveston?
Yes. Texas law allows scattering over public waterways, and bays such as Galveston Bay and Corpus Christi Bay count. Many families still choose to go 3 nautical miles out into the Gulf.
What do I need to bring for a burial at sea in Texas?
Your written OK to scatter from the boat, with your wishes for where and how. You can write it in your conversation with the captain. 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 Galveston?
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.