Types of Sea Burial

There are various forms of sea burial that differ in the participation of relatives and the design of the ceremony. The appropriate form can be chosen according to wishes and circumstances.

Silent Sea Burial (without relatives)

In a silent sea burial, the burial takes place without relatives on board. The ship's crew conducts the ceremony respectfully and with dignity.

• No relatives on board
• Burial conducted by experienced crew
• Relatives receive sea chart with GPS coordinates
• Often chosen due to distance or cost considerations

A silent sea burial is the most reserved form and still allows for a dignified farewell at sea.

Accompanied Sea Burial

The accompanied sea burial is the most common form. Family and friends sail with the ship to the burial site and participate in the ceremony.

• Family and friends sail along
• Individual ceremony design possible
• Personal farewell at sea
• Depending on ship, approx. 10–80 persons possible

The accompanied sea burial enables a shared farewell and active participation in the ceremony.

Anonymous Sea Burial

In an anonymous sea burial, the GPS coordinates of the burial site are not disclosed to relatives. This form is rarely chosen but may correspond to the express wish of the deceased.

• No disclosure of coordinates
• No location for targeted remembrance
• Sometimes corresponds to the wish for complete return to nature

Ceremony Design

Regardless of the chosen form, the ceremony can be individually designed:

Secular Ceremony

A non-religious design with personal words, poems, or music chosen by the relatives.

Religious or Church Ceremony

A clergy member can lead the ceremony on board or say prayers. Ecumenical services are also possible.

Free Eulogy

A professional celebrant or relatives give a personal speech.

Musical Accompaniment

The deceased's favorite music or classical funeral music can be played during the ceremony.

Flowers and Petals

Flowers, wreaths, or individual petals can be added to the urn in the water. Important: All materials must be biodegradable.

Comparison Table: All Types at a Glance

Feature	Silent Sea Burial	Accompanied Sea Burial	Anonymous Sea Burial
Relatives on Board	No	Yes (10–80 persons)	Possible
Individual Ceremony	Standard ceremony	Fully individual	Standard ceremony
GPS Coordinates	Yes, with sea chart	Yes, with sea chart	No
Memorial Voyages Possible	Yes	Yes	No
Cost (Guide)	2,000 – 3,500 EUR	3,500 – 6,000 EUR	1,800 – 3,000 EUR
Typical Reason	Distance, budget	Shared farewell	Express wish
Waiting Time	Often shorter	Scheduling required	Often shorter

All prices are guide values including cremation and urn. Details see Costs & Price Guide.

Further Information

• Sea Burial Process – The day of the ceremony in detail
• Preparation for Relatives – Practical tips
• Remembrance – Options after the sea burial