What Is Burial at Sea?
Burial at sea is the practice of committing a person's remains to the ocean — either as cremated ashes (a "scattering") or as a full-body burial in deep water. It is one of humanity's oldest funeral traditions and remains a meaningful, dignified, and often more affordable alternative to a land burial. Families most often choose it for a loved one with a lifelong bond to the water: naval veterans, merchant sailors, fishermen, surfers, divers, and anyone who simply felt most at home by the sea.
In the United States, burial at sea is fully legal and regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). The two core federal rules are straightforward: remains must be released at least 3 nautical miles from shore, and the EPA must be notified within 30 days of the burial. Full-body burials carry extra requirements — including a minimum water depth and rules on which materials may be placed in the water — while cremated remains have far simpler documentation. Most licensed operators handle the paperwork and EPA notification on the family's behalf.
There are four common types of ocean memorial: ash scattering (the most common and affordable), full-body burial at sea (deep-water and EPA-permitted), military burial at sea (offered at no charge to eligible veterans by the U.S. Navy), and eco-friendly memorials such as biodegradable urns and memorial-reef placements. Each option differs in cost, legal requirements, and logistics, which we break down in our service comparison and cost guide.
OceanFarewell is a free, independent resource — we do not sell services or take bookings. Our goal is to explain the laws, costs, and process clearly so you can make an informed decision. Use the state-by-state directory for U.S. regulations and departure ports, the international section for the rules in the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, and our guides for step-by-step explanations.
Types of Burial at Sea
Burial at Sea by US State
Select your state for local regulations, typical costs, departure ports, and how the process works.
International Burial at Sea
Each country has its own laws. We cover the key regulations and requirements worldwide.
Guides & Resources
How Burial at Sea Works
A step-by-step overview of the process, from permits and regulations to the ceremony itself.
Read guide →How Much Does Burial at Sea Cost?
Price ranges for ash scattering, full-body burial, and eco-memorials across the US and internationally.
Read guide →Is Ash Scattering Legal in the Ocean?
Federal and state rules, EPA distance requirements, and what permits you actually need.
Read guide →Compare Burial at Sea Service Types
Ash scattering vs. full body vs. eco memorial — costs, requirements, and what to expect.
Compare types →