One of the first decisions families face when planning a burial at sea in Florida is whether to choose an attended or non-attended service. Both are meaningful, dignified, and fully EPA-compliant — but they serve different needs. Here is everything you need to know to make the right choice for your family.
What Is an Attended Burial at Sea?
An attended burial at sea allows family members and close friends to join Captain Brad on the boat for a private ceremony at sea. You will travel through the scenic Indian River Lagoon and out Ponce Inlet to the 3-nautical-mile mark, where Captain Brad will conduct the ash scattering ceremony. You are welcome to say words, read a poem or prayer, play music via Bluetooth, and scatter biodegradable flowers alongside the ashes. Our attended service accommodates up to 6 guests and is priced at $550 for up to 3 people, with $50 per additional guest. This is the most popular option for families who want to say a personal goodbye together and share the experience of the open ocean.
What Is a Non-Attended Burial at Sea?
A non-attended burial at sea is performed privately by Captain Brad and his mate on your behalf — without family present on the boat. Captain Brad travels to the 3-nautical-mile offshore location and conducts the ash scattering ceremony with the same care and reverence as an attended service. The non-attended service is priced at $425 and is ideal for families who live out of state, prefer a simpler and more private farewell, or are working within a tighter budget. Captain Brad provides the exact GPS coordinates of the scattering location and photos of the ceremony for both service types.
Key Differences at a Glance
Attended burial at sea: $550 for up to 3 guests ($50 per additional guest, up to 6 total). Family members are present on the boat. Private captain-led ceremony at sea. Bluetooth music available on our larger vessel. GPS coordinates and optional certificate provided. Non-attended burial at sea: $425. Captain Brad performs the ceremony privately. GPS coordinates and photos provided. Ideal for out-of-state families or those preferring a simpler service.
Which Option Is Right for Your Family?
Choose an attended service if your family wants to be present for the ceremony, say a personal goodbye, scatter flowers, play music, and share the experience together. This is the most healing option for families who are local or can travel to New Smyrna Beach. Choose a non-attended service if family members live far away and cannot travel, you prefer a private and simple farewell, or you are working within a tighter budget. Both services honor your loved one with the same dignity and care. Captain Brad treats every ceremony — attended or non-attended — as a sacred responsibility.
How to Book a Burial at Sea in Florida
Booking with Ashes at Sea Florida is simple. Call Captain Brad directly at (386) 401-9900 — he personally answers every call — or use our online booking form at ashes-at-sea-florida.com/booking. A $100 deposit secures your date, with the remaining balance due on the day of the ceremony. We are available 7 days a week, 7 am to 9 pm. We are honored to serve your family.