Burials at sea offer a unique and meaningful way to bid farewell to loved ones, allowing their remains to return to the embrace of the ocean they cherished or admired. In the United Kingdom, this age-old tradition is governed by specific regulations to ensure environmental protection and respect for the departed. Burials at Sea can be a fitting send of for a fisherman, sailor, captain, naval officer and anyone who like to spend time on or near the sea.
Marine Management Organisation (MMO)
The MMO’s purpose is to protect and enhance our precious marine environment and support UK economic growth by enabling sustainable marine activities and development. They monitor activities in the seas surrounding England & Wales to ensure Marine Protected Area’s, rare biological species, shipwrecks are all safeguarded from marine activity by receiving licence applications and issuing or refusing licenses. Burials at Sea falls within their jurisdiction to oversee the correct process is performed by the funeral director. The MMO discourage funeral directors conducting burials at sea and would prefer families to opt for an Ashes burial at sea or scattering as there is less impact on marine life. However, they are still currently accepting licence applications and issuing licences for Burials at Sea in England & Wales.
Locations
Burials at sea are typically conducted in designated areas of the ocean, away from shipping lanes and sensitive marine habitats.
The MMO provide guidance on suitable locations and conditions for burials to ensure safety and environmental protection.
The Needles – Isle of Wight
Tynemouth Upon Newcastle
Between Hastings & Newhaven
The cost for the licence is £50. Should you wish to request a licence for a location in England & Wales outside of these 3 designated areas, you will need to complete a rigorous licence application at the cost of £175.
General Information
Burials at sea must adhere to strict environmental regulations to minimize any impact on marine ecosystems. Only biodegradable materials, such as soft wood coffins are permitted to ensure minimal environmental impact. Funeral Directors must obtain permission from the MMO before conducting a burial at sea. This involves an application detailing the proposed location, date, and method of burial, along with relevant documentation. You have the option to conduct a ceremony aboard a vessel or from shore, depending on your preference or the wishes of the deceased. The ceremony can be a great way to show the deceased connection to the sea and their love of nature, you can also incorporate religious or spiritual rites, readings, music, and the scattering of flowers or petals.
The MMO maintains records of all burials at sea, including the location, date, and details of the deceased. This ensures transparency and accountability in the process, as well as compliance with regulations.
Burials at sea in England & Wales offer families a poignant and timeless way to honour the memory of their loved ones while returning them to the vast and eternal embrace of the ocean. With careful planning, adherence to regulations, and respect for the environment, families can find solace in knowing that their departed are laid to rest in a manner befitting their connection to the sea.
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