Funerals Explained: Burial at Sea

In this short series, Funerals Explained, we look at Burial at Sea. It might not be commonplace, but a sea burial is an option for any funeral service.

There are many reasons why this a family might want this. If the deceased served in the Navy for many years or if they had a career as a sea fisherman. Keen boat enthusiasts or someone who had a relative buried in this way might also request this. The fact is anyone can use this option, there are a few rules that apply, but after that, you are good to go.

Let’s take a look at the rules and regulations surrounding burial at sea.

The Licence

For a sea burial, you will need to buy a licence. Currently, the cost in the UK for a burial at sea is £175. The Marine Management Organisation service is the responsible body. You apply with them and will need to confirm some details. First, a doctor will need to provide a certificate. This must prove the deceased did not have any infections or fevers at the time of death. If they did, unfortunately, this will prevent sea burial being an option for them. You may also need to inform the coroner that this is the chosen service. Your funeral director should be able to advise you on whether this applies or not.

Preparations

A special casket suitable for a burial at sea is mandatory. The primary need is that the coffin must be wooden, using only softwood. You cannot use any fittings, no plastics or metals, for example as handles and hinges. These materials do not biodegrade or breakdown. They also have the potential to contaminate the water. It is essential that we ensure the sea environment has protection. Another vital issue is guaranteeing the coffin sinks. With this in mind, the casket must have holes predrilled. These have to meet specific standards. Finally, weights equalling 200kg must be attached to the base.

The body cannot go through an embalming process. The clothes used for burial must be biodegradable and lightweight. The Navy will arrange the funeral on your behalf if the deceased was former Navy personnel. In this case, contacting their last base will get the ball rolling. Most funeral directors can assist with the process. If they have never handled a sea burial before, they will be able to get help. The Britannia Shipping Company and the Maritime Volunteer Service are available to assist. Over the last 12 months, about 12 people chose a sea burial off the coast of the UK.

Location is a Factor

Another thing to note about sea burials is that you cannot place the body anywhere. Much as we do on land, we have designated areas at sea for this purpose. Currently, the UK has three regions. Applicants can make a request to use a different, but there is no guarantee of approval.

The three graveyards of the sea off the UK are:

• Newhaven in East Sussex
• The Needles Spoil Ground near the Isle of Wight
• Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear

Applying for a different location requires co-ordinates and supporting evidence. You will need to explain why this location is suitable and appropriate. It must meet specific criteria. There must be minimal risk of the body floating to shore. It must not be in an area with commercial fishing nets.

The Funeral Service

Before leaving shore, the body will have an identification tag added in case it was to drift to shore. The concern of drifting is something that worries many families. For this reason, the three designated sites are strongly recommended. It has been long confirmed that these are safe sites to avoid any drifting.

The family can choose to attend the burial or say their final goodbyes on shore. There is no obligation for the family to take part. As the burial area must be somewhere that prevents drifting to shore the sea voyage can be very long. In some cases as long as 5 hours. The seas will be choppy so for this reason; many families do not choose to attend.

It is acceptable to have a service on land, at a church or venue of your choosing. This would be in a similar format to any funeral and does make it more practical for friends and family to attend. The coffin would then taken to the boat after the service has ended. Designated staff go with the casket, and they ensure dignity and respect until the end. Many often have a short prayer of their own as the crew dispatch the coffin once at the graveyard site.

Bespoke Designs

Over the years, although we have never worked on a funeral service involving a burial at sea, Fitting Farewell have created funeral order of service or memorial cards with a sea or sailing theme. We work directly with families and also funeral directors. We have the expertise and skills to create the funeral order of service you want for your loved one. We can create a bespoke design, print and deliver within 3 working days.

Call us on 0800 612 6484, which is free from a landline, or email us via our contact form.