At Peace In The Pacific

FAQ

About Scattering Remains at Sea

If you would like more information or have any questions, please feel free to email:

Captain Steve

Or call:

(949) 515-8232

Frequently Asked Questions

We realize that this can be a very uncomfortable time for any family, and our main endeavor is to make your tasks easier through our knowledge and caring. Here are some common questions we’ve encountered along the way. If you have any specific inquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

How do I ship Cremated Remains for an Unattended Ceremony?

You may ship Cremated Remains through USPS.  Please use “Return Receipt Requested” for your shipment. Parcel Services like UPS or FedEx don’t accept cremated human remains. Your mortuary or crematory can assist you with packaging the remains properly.

The USPS has the following rules for shipping human ashes:

Rule 462.2 "Human ashes are permitted to be mailed provided they are packaged as required in 463b. The identity of the contents should be marked on the address side. Mail pieces must be sent registered mail with return receipt service."

Packaging and Marking - The following conditions apply:

Rule 463b "Dry materials that could cause damage, discomfort, destruction, or soiling upon escape (i.e., leakage) must be packed in sift proof containers or other containers that are sealed in durable sift proof outer containers."

How do you release our Cremated Remains in the ocean at an Unattended Ceremony?

There is no difference in our process between Attended and Unattended Ceremonies. Unless you have something specific in mind (and we will do our best to comply with any wishes, as long as they are legal in the State of California), the Cremated Remains will be transferred to a wicker basket, covered with colorful rose petals, and slowly lowered by the Captain into the water as the boat drifts with the current. The exact GPS (latitude and longitude) position is noted in the ship’s log, so an embossed certificate can be issued at a later time to the family. This enables you to revisit the site in person, or find it on a nautical chart whenever you like.

How will I know when the release of our Cremated Remains takes place?

Our goal is to release the Cremated Remains as soon as possible after we receive them, preferably within the week, weather permitting. The certificate you receive will note the exact time and place of the release. At your request, the Captain will phone you the morning of the release.

I’ve kept the Cremated Remains at home for a while. What do I do now?

We did exactly the same thing. That’s what got us started in this business. Contact us any time and we will assist you by answering any questions you may have.

Are there any additional charges?

Our ceremonies are all-inclusive. If you desire a specific location for the release that is beyond our usual range, there would be an extra charge for fuel and time.

How long does the Attended Ceremony last?

Our normal time frame is approximately two hours, from embarkation to debarkation. The actual release of Cremated Remains ceremony is guided by your family and the sea conditions. The Captain will discuss the ceremony with you before and during the cruise, and if your wishes change, just inform Captain and he will do his best to accommodate them.

How do I pay you?

Payment for an Unattended Ceremony is requested prior to the release of Cremated Remains.

Payment for an Attended Ceremony is requested at the time of debarkation.

Is a gratuity expected for the crew?

Gratuities are neither required nor expected, however, as with any personal service rendered, a gratuity is an accepted way to say “thank you”.

What should I look for from any company who advertises this service?

You will want to find a company you feel comfortable and confident with. Not all companies providing release of Cremated Remains are licensed by the State of California to do so. Make sure you verify that your choice holds a valid CRD, and has a licensed USCG Merchant Mariner on board. You can check CRD credentials here and USCG Mariners here. Our licenses are all posted on our Credentials page.