Sea Burial
The ashes are committed to the sea in an urn at least three nautical miles from the shore. A symbol of freedom and unity with nature.
A sea burial symbolises unity with the ocean and nature, as well as freedom and the absence of attachment to a fixed burial place.
The Sea Burial Process
A sea burial is always preceded by cremation, after which the ashes are placed in an urn. The urn must be made from natural materials that dissolve quickly upon contact with seawater. The urn is taken by ship at least three nautical miles from the shore. The captain delivers a short address, and the urn is committed to the sea in accordance with maritime tradition. The captain then records the burial coordinates on a navigation chart and passes it to the family.
German Law
In Germany, scattering ashes over open water is prohibited. Submerging an urn in inland waters or rivers is also not permitted. Sea burial is only possible in open sea — in the North Sea or the Baltic Sea.
Burial Abroad
In other countries, scattering ashes over water is permitted. For example, ashes may be scattered over the North Sea in Dutch waters or over the Mediterranean in Spanish waters. Through our partners, we can also arrange sea burial outside Germany.