What is a sea burial?

How does a burial at sea work and can anyone have one? Let's learn more about this alternative funeral option.

What is a sea burial?

A sea burial – also known as "burial at sea" – involves putting a person to rest in the sea from a boat. In the UK, this can happen at certain designated coastal sites.


Traditionally, sea burial was the preserve of members of the Royal Navy. Today, anyone can have a sea burial so long as the burial is done in line with regulations and permissions.



A sea burial can be a moving and fitting send-off for someone who had a personal connection to the sea, whether professional, personal or both.

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How does a burial at sea work?

First, the body is prepared in a special way and placed in a special coffin. This is to stop the coffin from resurfacing, to minimise the burial's impact on the marine environment and to make the body identifiable. The guidelines for these preparations are on the government website.


The coffin is carried out to sea on a chartered boat with a few mourners and the people who will carry out the burial. Sometimes this is complemented by a funeral on land.


For a person to be buried at sea, the person responsible for the funeral needs to obtain a licence from the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).


There are designated locations for sea burial across the UK. In England, there are three: Newhaven in East Sussex, the Needles Spoil Ground near the Isle of Wight and Tynemouth in Tyne and Wear. In Scotland, burials at sea can take place off John O'Groats and off Oban West Coast.

Can you scatter ashes in the sea?

Yes, you're allowed to scatter ashes in the sea. You don't need a licence or permit, making it a more cost-effective option than burial at sea.


While you don't need permission, you should check the Environment Agency's advice. You shouldn't, for instance, scatter ashes near a fishery, marina, water plant or reservoir. You should also  scatter the ashes in calm weather so they don't blow into neighbouring areas.


You can also bury a biodegradable urn filled with ashes in the sea. These are designed to float for a while before sinking and eventually dissolving.

Sea burial FAQs

  • What is a full body burial at sea?

    A full body burial at sea involves the body in a specially prepared coffin being lowered into the sea. The "full body" part of the phrase is there to distinguish it from scattering ashes at sea.

  • How do burial at sea regulations work in the UK?

    To arrange a burial at sea, you must get a licence from the Maritime Management Organisation (MMO). You have to present a death certificate, a doctor's certificate and permission from the coroner.


    The body must be clothed in biodegradable clothing and not embalmed. It must also wear a tag identifying the person who died and the funeral director.

  • What kind of coffin is used for sea burial?

    Coffins used for sea burial need to be made from solid softwood and be free from plastic, lead, copper and zinc. This is to ensure the coffin biodegrades and doesn't contaminate the sea.

  • What is the cost of a burial at sea?

    A self-service licence from the MMO costs £50. This allows you to arrange a funeral at a designated area around the English coast.


    If you want to use a different site, you have to submit a licence application. This should include evidence as to why the proposed location is an appropriate site. This could cost £1,400 or more.


    On top of the licence, you need to pay for the funeral directors and the boat charter company.

  • How much does it cost to scatter ashes at sea?

    Ashes can be scattered at sea free of charge. However, you should check Environment Agency guidelines before going ahead.

  • Which famous people have been buried at sea?

    Many famous people have been buried at sea. These include Sir Francis Drake and Janis Joplin.

  • Can Catholics be buried at sea?

    Yes, the Catholic Church allows members to be buried at sea so long as the proper rites are included in the ceremony.

  • Can people attend a burial at sea?

    Typically, guests gather on the shore for a ceremony before the boat is sent out to sea and the body buried. Only a few mourners join the celebrant on the boat.

Arrange the funeral you want with AFD

AFD is a team of  independent funeral directors based in London. We lend a listening ear to our clients to ensure they get the funeral they want. Whatever your faith, culture or funeral requirements, we'll provide a tailored, compassionate service. Call us on 020 8355 7876. Lines are open 24/7 all year round.