It is one of the first questions any family asks when considering this kind of farewell. The answer is clear: scattering ashes at sea is not allowed without express authorisation from the Harbour Master (Capitanía Marítima). Complying with the law is essential to avoid fines and, above all, to live this moment with complete peace of mind.
The rules in force: authorisation and a cleared boat
To scatter ashes lawfully, it cannot be just any boat. It has to be a boat that is authorised and “cleared” specifically for this activity. In addition, the company or the skipper in charge must apply for and obtain the Harbour Master’s permit before setting off. If you work with a specialist company like ours, the family doesn’t need to worry about this paperwork, because we take care of everything.
Where are the ashes scattered? The exact coordinates
Ashes cannot be scattered at just any point along the coast. It is the Harbour Master who designates the exact coordinates where the ceremony may take place. This authorised point is usually around half an hour’s sailing from the home port, ensuring it takes place in open water, away from beaches and with the privacy the family needs.
The whole trip must be made with a qualified professional skipper. We stress this: it is not legal to do it by chartering a boat yourself or from the shore.
What paperwork does the family need?
The family only needs to give us the cremation certificate, the document the funeral home hands over with the ashes. Without it we cannot apply for the compulsory authorisation. We handle everything else with the Harbour Master.
Should you use a biodegradable urn?
Yes, it is compulsory if the urn is going into the water. Biodegradable urns are designed to dissolve in the sea with no environmental impact (they are made of sand, salt or recycled paper). What is strictly forbidden is throwing ceramic, plastic or metal urns, or flower wreaths with wire, into the sea.
How to arrange the ceremony at sea in Barcelona (Sitges)
From Port Garraf (Sitges, Barcelona) we offer a complete, lawful service for scattering ashes in the Mediterranean. We handle the whole authorisation with the Harbour Master, sail our cleared boat to the authorised area (about 30 minutes away) and, at the end, give you an official certificate confirming that every rule has been followed.
Authorised service from Port Garraf
We arrange your ceremony with complete discretion, lawfully and respectfully.
See details and prices