In Brief:
A sea burial takes 2–3 hours and follows a set procedure: Reception at harbor → Journey to burial site → Committal of urn → four bell tolls → three circles around the site → return journey → handover of sea chart with GPS coordinates.
A sea burial is a dignified and special form of farewell. The day of the ceremony follows a set procedure that provides space for mourning, remembrance, and a peaceful farewell.
The Process in Detail
- Arrival at Harbor and Reception
Relatives meet at the agreed time at the harbor. The crew welcomes the mourners and gives a brief introduction to the upcoming procedure. - Orientation on Board
After boarding the ship, guests are familiarized with the facilities. There is time to settle in and find peace. - Memorial Service on Board (optional)
Depending on wishes, a service, eulogy, or short religious ceremony can take place on board. Music, readings, or personal words from relatives are possible. - Journey to Open Sea
The ship slowly sails out to the burial site. The journey takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes depending on location. During this time, one can absorb the special atmosphere. - Ceremonial Presentation of the Urn
At the burial site, the urn is presented with dignity, often decorated with flowers or a wreath. - Committal of the Urn to the Sea
The urn is committed to the sea. Speeches may be held, music played, or flower petals scattered on the water. Personal items that are biodegradable may also be included. - Four Tolls of the Ship's Bell
After the burial, the ship's bell tolls four times – a traditional maritime custom marking the conclusion of the ceremony. - Three Circles Around the Burial Site
The ship circles the burial site three times. This is a moment of silence and remembrance before the return journey begins. - Return Journey to Harbor
The return journey offers space for conversations, quiet memories, or simply processing the experience. - Handover of Sea Chart with GPS Coordinates
Upon arrival, relatives receive a sea chart or certificate with the exact GPS coordinates of the burial site. This serves as a lasting memento.
Maritime Traditions
The sea burial follows ancient maritime customs that give the ceremony a special framework:
- Ship's Bell: Four tolls traditionally signal the end of a watch and are rung at sea burials as the conclusion of the ceremony.
- Three Circles: Circling the burial site three times is a sign of respect and allows for a silent farewell.
- Flags at Half-Mast: During the ceremony, the ship's flags are lowered to half-mast.
Duration of the Ceremony
The entire ceremony typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes:
- Journey to burial site: approx. 45–60 minutes
- Ceremony and burial: approx. 30–45 minutes
- Return journey to harbor: approx. 45–60 minutes
The exact duration depends on the distance to the burial site and weather conditions.
Weather and Seasonality
Sea burials can be conducted year-round. On the Baltic Sea, voyages are generally possible up to wind force 5. In extreme weather conditions, the date will be postponed for safety reasons.
During warmer months, scheduling is more flexible. In winter, restrictions may occur due to ice or storms, but modern ships are equipped for various weather conditions.
Further Information
- Legal Requirements – What documents and permits are needed?
- Preparation for Relatives – Practical tips for the day of the ceremony
- Types of Sea Burial – Silent, accompanied, and anonymous burial compared