A sea burial in Morro Bay offers a deeply meaningful way to say farewell-honoring your loved one with the power and serenity of the ocean. Against the backdrop of Morro Rock and the wide Pacific horizon, families find both peace and purpose in a maritime memorial. At Pacific Coast Ashes at Sea, our experienced team is committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring your ceremony is dignified, personal, and fully compliant with all legal and environmental requirements.

Why Choose a Sea Burial in Morro Bay?

Morro Bay is uniquely suited for this kind of ceremony. Its calm harbor and easy access to open ocean routes make it a practical departure point. Many families are drawn to Morro Bay for its natural beauty, with the iconic Morro Rock and expanses of coastal terrain providing a serene setting for reflection.

A sea burial offers several meaningful advantages:

• A natural, elemental farewell - The ocean embodies flow, continuity, and timelessness.
• Environmental alignment - When conducted properly, the ceremony leaves no lasting trace, respecting marine life and coastal ecosystems.
• Flexibility in ceremony style - Whether you prefer a private, attended service or wish for a simple, unattended release, we can accommodate.
• Comprehensiveness & comfort - From vessel selection to permits, we handle logistics so you can focus on remembrance.

Vessel & Passage

Your ceremony begins with a vessel crewed by professionals and approved by U.S. Coast Guard standards. We choose a craft appropriate for your group size, ensuring safety, comfort, and dignity. From there, we'll travel beyond the bay's protective barriers, usually 30–45 minutes out to sea.

Once we reach the designated location, the captain will coordinate the ceremony. You'll have space and time for tributes, readings, prayers, or simply quiet reflection as the remains are released. After the moment of committal, we return gently to harbor.

Typical charter durations run between 1.5 and 2 hours (dock to dock).

Types of Sea Burials

• Cremated remains (ashes): The most common and straightforward option. These can be scattered directly or in a biodegradable urn, in fully compliant waters.
• Full-body sea burial: Less common, but possible - this requires a certified, weighted, biodegradable casket and strict compliance with federal regulations.

Attended vs. Unattended Service

You may choose to be present for the ceremony (attended) or request an unattended scattering (where the captain handles the process on your behalf). Either way, all services adhere to legal and environmental standards.

Regulatory & Legal Essentials

Conducting a sea burial is meaningful, but it must also be lawful. In the U.S., all sea burials fall under a general permit issued under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA). This permit authorizes burial of human remains-cremated or full body-provided certain conditions are met.

Key regulations include:

• Distance from shore: Burials must occur at least three nautical miles from land.
• Depth requirements: For full-body burials, the water typically must be at least 600 feet deep.
• Container guidelines: Caskets or urns used must be biodegradable, weighted, and free from non-degradable materials (e.g. plastics or metals).
• State permits in California: Beyond federal rules, California requires a Disposition Permit (VS-9) for any scattering or burial at sea within the state's jurisdiction. This permit is issued via the local county Vital Records office.
• Mandatory reporting: Within 30 days after the service, you must file a report with the EPA, documenting the date, vessel, coordinates, and other necessary information.
• State and local oversight: In California, additional oversight may come from the State Water Resources Control Board, local harbor authorities, and Coast Guard licensing requirements.

Because these rules are detailed and precise, many families prefer to let a trusted sea-burial provider manage all legal, procedural, and logistical tasks.

Why Choose Pacific Coast Ashes at Sea

With over 20 years of dedicated service, our team has refined the process of guiding families through meaningful maritime farewells. We bring:

• Personalized attention - We take time to understand your wishes and tailor the service to reflect your loved one's story.
• Full service handling - From obtaining permits to coordinating vessels and crews, we handle all details so you can focus on family.
• Licensed and compliant practices - Our operations comply with MPRSA and California state requirements, giving you peace of mind.
• Compassionate professionalism - With sensitivity and respect, we guide you through the emotional and practical journey.

Plan a Meaningful Farewell at Sea

If you're ready to honor your loved one with a heartfelt funeral at sea, our caring team is here to help every step of the way. At Pacific Coast Ashes at Sea, we'll guide you through scheduling, permits, and ceremony options to ensure everything is handled with dignity and ease.

Call us today on 800-900-8188 or via this Online Form to discuss your plans or request a quote.

Let us help you create a peaceful and memorable farewell along the beautiful shores of Morro Bay, California - where every wave carries love, remembrance, and grace.