Planning a burial at sea ceremony in Florida is simpler than most families expect. With the right guidance, the process is straightforward — and the experience can be one of the most healing and meaningful farewells your family will ever share. Here is a complete step-by-step guide.
Step 1 — Choose Your Service Type
Ashes at Sea Florida offers two types of burial at sea ceremonies. The attended service ($550 for up to 3 guests, $50 per additional guest, up to 6 total) allows family members and close friends to join Captain Brad on the boat for a private ceremony at sea. The non-attended service ($425) is performed privately by Captain Brad on your behalf — ideal for families who live out of state, prefer a simpler farewell, or are working within a tighter budget. Both services include the exact GPS coordinates of the scattering location and the option for a commemorative nautical certificate.
Step 2 — Select Your Date and Time
Morning departures are generally recommended for the calmest seas and most comfortable temperatures. Captain Brad monitors weather conditions closely and will reschedule at no charge if conditions are unsafe. We are available 7 days a week, 7 am to 9 pm. We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during peak spring and fall seasons.
Step 3 — Book Online or by Phone
Booking is simple. Use our online booking form at ashes-at-sea-florida.com/booking, or call Captain Brad directly at (386) 401-9900. He personally answers every call and is happy to walk you through the process. A $100 deposit secures your date, with the remaining balance due on the day of the ceremony.
Step 4 — Prepare for the Ceremony
For an attended service, gather the cremated remains in a container or biodegradable urn. You may also bring biodegradable flowers and rose petals to scatter alongside the ashes, a Bluetooth device to play music or a meaningful playlist, photos or a small framed picture of your loved one, and any written poems, prayers, or personal words you would like to share. Non-slip shoes and sun protection are strongly recommended. Non-biodegradable items should remain on the boat.
Step 5 — Arrive at the Departure Point
Meet Captain Brad at 2455 Boat Ramp Drive, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 at your scheduled time. We recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early. Captain Brad will greet your family warmly, go over the ceremony details, and answer any last-minute questions before you board.
Step 6 — The Ceremony
The boat ride through the Indian River Lagoon and out Ponce Inlet to the 3-nautical-mile mark takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Once offshore, Captain Brad will slow the vessel and conduct the ash scattering ceremony with care and reverence. You are welcome to say words, read a poem or prayer, play music, or simply observe in quiet reflection. After the ceremony, you will receive the exact GPS coordinates of the scattering location — a meaningful keepsake your family will treasure forever.
What Happens After the Ceremony?
Captain Brad provides the GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude) of the scattering location after every service. An optional commemorative nautical certificate — personalized with your loved one's name, the date and time of the ceremony, and the GPS coordinates — is also available. Many families also order a handcrafted memorial shadow box from Ashes at Sea Florida, starting at $150, as a lasting keepsake of the ceremony. We are available 7 days a week to answer any questions. Call Captain Brad at (386) 401-9900 or visit ashes-at-sea-florida.com/booking to begin planning. We are honored to serve your family.