Frequently Asked Questions about Sea Burial

In a sea burial, the ashes of the deceased are placed in a biodegradable urn and committed to the sea. The burial takes place on the open sea in designated areas. It is a form of natural burial, particularly suitable for people who had a connection to the sea. More about the process

For a sea burial, the deceased must have been cremated. Additionally, proof must be provided that the deceased wished for this form of burial – through a will, pre-arrangement contract, or credible statement by relatives. A permit from the regulatory authority is required. More about legal requirements

Required are: death certificate, proof of declaration of intent (will, pre-arrangement contract, etc.), cremation certificate, and permit from the regulatory authority. The funeral company usually handles all formalities. More about documents

Basically yes, if relatives can credibly attest that the deceased wished for a sea burial. However, written proof (will, pre-arrangement contract) is the safest way. More about requirements

Relatives meet at the harbor, are welcomed on board, and sail to the burial site. The ceremony takes place there: The urn is committed to the sea, accompanied by music, words, or flowers. The ship's bell tolls four times, the ship circles the site three times. More about the process

The entire ceremony takes about 2 to 3 hours. This includes the journey to the burial site (45–60 min.), the ceremony itself (30–45 min.), and the return journey.

Yes, in an accompanied sea burial, relatives and friends sail with the ship to the burial site. Depending on the ship, 10 to 80 people can participate. Alternatively, there is the silent sea burial. More about types

In a silent sea burial, the burial takes place without relatives on board – the crew conducts it respectfully. In an accompanied sea burial, relatives sail along and can actively participate in the ceremony. More about types

Yes, flower petals and individual flowers can be placed in the water as a final tribute. Flower wreaths, bouquets, and ribbons are not allowed. All materials must be biodegradable.

Yes, a clergy member can accompany the ceremony on board. Both Protestant and Catholic ceremonies are possible. More about ceremony design

No, children's participation is not mandatory. If children participate, they should be prepared in an age-appropriate way beforehand. More about preparation

Sea burials take place at the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Well-known departure ports are Warnemuende, Travemuende, Wismar, Cuxhaven, and Wilhelmshaven. More about locations

In extreme weather conditions, the date will be postponed. Modern ships can sail in moderate conditions up to about wind force 5.

Silent sea burials often start at about 1,500–2,500 EUR, accompanied ceremonies with relatives on board are often between 3,000–6,000 EUR. More about costs

Only biodegradable urns made of sandstone, salts, unglazed clay, cellulose, or bio-composites. Metal, plastic, and lacquered surfaces are prohibited. More about sea urns

Many funeral companies throughout Germany offer sea burials, even if they are not located on the coast. An internet search or recommendations can help.

Yes, sea burials are possible in many countries, e.g., in the Netherlands, Denmark, Great Britain, or on the high seas. Regulations differ by country.

Relatives receive a sea chart with the GPS coordinates. Many visit the coast nearby. Some providers offer memorial voyages. More about remembrance

A memorial voyage is a trip to the burial site at a later time, e.g., on the anniversary. Relatives can place flowers in the water and remember in silence. More about memorial voyages

Sea burial is considered resource-saving: no cemetery land needed, urns are biodegradable. Cremation is required which consumes energy, but overall the balance is positive. More about environmental aspects