We are vetting licensed captains and vessels in Panama City now. Tell us your preferred date and we will contact you as soon as a captain is available, or choose a nearby city with boats today.
What to expect in Panama City
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 Panama City
Captain license
Not required
Inside Panama City waters
Not settled
St. Andrew Bay; Gulf of Mexico via St. Andrew Pass
Ocean
3+ nautical miles from land
Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.
Shallow Gulf water is fine for ashes - EPA sets no depth rule for cremated remains, only the 3 nm distance from land (barrier islands count as land). From downtown Panama City marinas it is about 7-8 nm through St. Andrew Bay to St. Andrew Pass, then 3 nm offshore - roughly 10-11 nm (estimate). Tyndall AFB and Naval Support Activity Panama City have restricted areas and offshore military warning areas; check notices to mariners. St. Andrew Bay is inside water - no clear state rule.
Full Florida guide: permits, paperwork and sourcesLast checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.
Questions families ask about Panama City
Are there burial at sea boats in Panama City?
We are vetting licensed, insured captains in Panama City, FL now. Tell us your preferred date through the contact page and we will reach out as soon as a captain is available, or choose a nearby city with boats today.
How far out do boats go for a burial at sea from Panama City?
In the ocean, ashes are scattered at least 3 nautical miles from land under the federal EPA rule, at any depth. From Panama City, boats head out to the Gulf of Mexico via St. Andrew Pass. 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 Panama City?
Bays, harbors and rivers are inside waters, so the federal ocean rule does not cover them, and Florida has no clear rule for scattering there. That is why captains 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 Florida?
The ashes and, if you have it, the cremation certificate from your funeral home or crematory. In the Florida Keys, a free marine sanctuary permit is part of the service; your captain can tell you more. 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 Panama City?
Contact us with your preferred date and group size and we will let you know as soon as a captain in Panama City is available. Nearby cities with boats are listed above.