Choosing the sea as the place to say goodbye is a beautiful decision. For everything to go smoothly and without legal surprises, though, it matters to know how to arrange it properly. Here we explain, step by step, how we do it, in strict compliance with maritime rules.
Step 1 — the cremation certificate is the key
The only document the family needs to have to hand is the cremation certificate issued by the funeral home. It is essential: without it, no official application can be made to the maritime authorities.
Step 2 — book an authorised (cleared) boat
This is the most important point. Scattering ashes at sea on your own is not allowed. You must use a company with a boat cleared and authorised specifically for this purpose. The company applies to the Harbour Master for authorisation, a compulsory step that cannot be skipped. Doing it covertly carries serious penalties and spoils a moment that should be one of peace.
Step 3 — reserve the private outing
Our ceremonies are private, for the family alone (up to 11 passengers plus the skipper). Once we have the certificate and the chosen date, we apply for the permit and prepare the route to the exact authorised point.
Step 4 — the day of the ceremony and the exact coordinates
The family arrives at Port Garraf at the agreed time. Once on board, the skipper sets a course for the exact coordinates the Harbour Master has designated for the scattering. The trip usually takes around half an hour.
On reaching the authorised point, the engine is stopped. The family has all the time in the world to read something, play some music or simply share the silence as they place the biodegradable urn in the water. The skipper stays respectfully in the background.
Step 5 — back to port, and the keepsake
On the way back to port, the ceremony stays in the heart. We give the family an official certificate confirming that the service was carried out in accordance with the Harbour Master’s rules. It is a lasting keepsake of such an important moment, a document that shows the farewell met every legal requirement.
What does the service include and how much is it?
What matters most when choosing this service is not just the boat but doing it lawfully. Our service includes handling the Harbour Master’s authorisation from start to finish, the cleared boat with a professional skipper, and a discreet trip to the authorised point. At Altair it is a single service at €420, with no packages or extras: the whole sailing boat for the family, the Harbour Master’s permit arranged, and the trip to the authorised area and back.
Would you like to arrange a ceremony?
Ask us, with no obligation. We take care of all the legal paperwork.
Talk to usYou can also read about it, calmly told, at Despedida en el Mar.