Burial at Sea San Diego Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are the cremains (ashes) dispersed into the ocean?
A: Scattering ashes can be done several ways. The most popular ways is to simply pour the cremains directly from the original container into the ocean. Special urns are now made for burials at sea. They are 100% biodegradable and can be placed into the ocean. This method limits the amount of handling. The cremains can also be placed into to a wicker basket lined with biodegradable paper and then lowered into the ocean. Family and friends can participate in "lowering the cremains to the deep" by assisting in letting go of the rope.
Q: Do you need an Officiant?
A: No. You are not required to have an Officiant to perform your service. Typlically family members and friends will assume the roll. If you would like an Officiant and do not already have a church or place of worship figure that is available we recommend having one of our skilled captains read a short prayer or poem.
Q: Are services available on weekends?
A: We provide burial at sea services on both weekdays and weekends. Services can be customized to accommodate almost any time request. However, we do find that early morning (between 10am - 11am) trips are a little better due to the waters being at their calmest point.
Q: What kind of official documents do you need to scatter ashes?
A: We need a copy of the death certificate issued by the County Health Department of where the death occured, and a burial permit from the County Vital Statistics Office San Diego County California. Permits from surrounding counties are accepted if the permit states that disposition is to take place "In The Pacific Ocean Off the Coast of San Diego County".
Additinally, we will need our "Authorization for Scattering Cremains" form signed as well which can be downloaded from our site along with the other forms mentioned above. Or we can email it to you upon request. It can be brought with you the day of your attended service or sent in with the cremains if you select to do an unattended disposition.
Q: How long is the burial at sea service?
A: A standard trip is approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours depending on how long you wish to remain on site. Additional hours and other locals such as Crystal Pier or La Jolla require additional travel time and may have additional rates.
Q: How would I best contact you?
A: For immediate service call our direct number at (619) 887-5443
Feel free to email us at PacificaSailingCharters@gmail.com
Our direct mailing address is: 1220 Rosecrans St. #454, San Diego, CA 92106
Q: How Do I make a reservation?
A: Although we can arrange scattering of ashes services within a day, reservations made a week or more prior to the selected date enables us to provide the highiest degree of service. Which is what we pride ourselves on.
To reserve your charter, simply choose the Buy Tickets tab or call us direct at 619-887-5443.
If you have any questions simply give us a call.
Q: How do we set an appointment for the scattering of ashes service?
A: Appointments are usually made to gather attendees at the landing for subsequent departure. Usually arriving 15 minutes before scheduled departure is sufficient. We require that all attendees fill out a coast guard manifest (passenger list) prior to departure. This process usually takes a few minutes. The manifest can be completed beforehand as well and dropped off in our office prior to departure.
Q: Can you accommodate special requests for scattering?
A: Yes, we are very flexible and we do our best to fulfill all requests.
Q: How far do we go offshore?
A: Distance varies based on the selected location. In many cases ash scattering services are within 500 yards to ½ mile from shore.
Q: For families on a tight budget, what do you offer?
A: Our unattended ash scattering service is the most economical option with the total cost of $199. We offer several other types of services with option that can fit almost any budget. We are flexible and can customize your service to meet your personal standards at a price that is affordable.
Q: How will I know when and where the unattended scattering took place?
A: We will perform an unattended ash scattering service no more than 14 days after receipt. Typically we will perform the service within the week. After the service is preformed you will receive a memorial certificate indicating the date of the scattering service. The memorial certificate will also contain the latitude and longitude of where the ashes were scattered.
Q: How can I contact a veteran's organization to provide color guard, taps, salute, etc., for a veteran?
A: If you are interested in having Military services take part in your service you would need to make arrangments with the Military Funeral Honors Program. The National Guard is formally directed to provide support at funerals for eligible Veterans.
Q: How will I know where dispersal took place?
A: We will provide you the exact longitude and latitude coordinates where the cremains were released. You can "revisit" the exact site if you wish.
Q: Do you have restrooms on board?
A: Yes. We have modern toilets and running water.
Q: Are your captains Coast Guard Certified?
Burial at Sea San Diego has provided ash scattering services to families from all over the United States of America. All of our captains are Coast Guard Certified.
Q: How large are the vessels, and how many passengers can attend?
A: We have several vessels that range from 37 to 85 feet in length that can accommodate from 1 to 24 passengers.
Q: How is payment made and when?
A: Payment can be made by personal check, money order, cashier's check, or by credit card (all major cards accepted). A deposit of 50% will be rendered at booking. The balance can be paid anytime prior to the vessels departure. Payments made by credit card can be done so over the phone. If you are mailing a payment, please make checks and money orders payable to Pacifica Marketing Group. Payments can be mailed to:
Pacifica Marketing Group
1220 Rosecrans St. #454
San Diego, CA 92106
Q: Is sending the cremains by US Postal Service a proven and reliable method?
A: Yes, it's been proven to be the best, fastest, and most reliable method. The USPS will ship cremains as long as these instructions are followed.
- The container/urn of ashes must be placed into leak proof packaging (plastic bag), boxed, and sealed (taped).
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This box must be placed into a secondary shipping box and sealed. Make sure to place packing material (bubble wrap, foam, paper, etc.) into the shipping box to reduce internal movement.
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The package must be sent USPS Registered Mail. It is also very important to declare the contents by writing "Cremated Remains" on the addressed side of the shipping box.
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Some other delivery providers will not accept cremains due to liability restrictions.
Q: How far do we go offshore?
A: Distance varies based on the selected location. In many cases ash scattering services are within 500 yards to ½ mile from shore.
Q: For families on a tight budget, what do you offer?
A: Our unattended ash scattering service is the most economical option with the total cost of $199. We offer several other types of services with option that can fit almost any budget. We are flexible and can customize your service to meet your personal standards at a price that is affordable.
Q: How will I know when and where the unattended scattering took place?
A: We will perform an unattended ash scattering service no more than 14 days after receipt. Typically we will perform the service within the week. After the service is preformed you will receive a memorial certificate indicating the date of the scattering service. The memorial certificate will also contain the latitude and longitude of where the ashes were scattered.
Q: How can I contact a veteran's organization to provide color guard, taps, salute, etc., for a veteran?
A: If you are interested in having Military services take part in your service you would need to make arrangments with the Military Funeral Honors Program. The National Guard is formally directed to provide support at funerals for eligible Veterans.
Q: How will I know where dispersal took place?
A: We will provide you the exact longitude and latitude coordinates where the cremains were released. You can "revisit" the exact site if you wish.
Q: Do you have restrooms on board?
A: Yes. We have modern toilets and running water.
Q: Are your captains Coast Guard Certified?
Burial at Sea San Diego has provided ash scattering services to families from all over the United States of America. All of our captains are Coast Guard Certified.
Q: How large are the vessels, and how many passengers can attend?
A: We have several vessels that range from 37 to 85 feet in length that can accommodate from 1 to 48 passengers.
Q: How is payment made and when?
A: Payment can be made by personal check, money order, cashier's check, or by credit card (all major cards accepted). A deposit of 50% will be rendered at booking. The balance can be paid anytime prior to the vessels departure. Payments made by credit card can be done so over the phone. If you are mailing a payment, please make checks and money orders payable to Pacifica Marketing Group. Payments can be mailed to:
Pacifica Marketing Group
1220 Rosecrans St. #454
San Diego, CA 92106
Q: Is the cruise safe for children?
A: Yes, railings around the boat and a large enclosed area offer both safety and comfort. We have never had an incident with any of our burial at sea services. You must provide a USCG safety vest foe all attendees under the age of 13.
Q: Is there room to walk around the boat?
A: Yes. The outside areas as well as enclosed areas are very spacious. Our large vessels offer ample room for all passengers attending.
Q: What about providing flowers & wreaths?
A: Family and friends can bring flowers or wreaths for tossing into the ocean immediately after the cremains are scattered. All flower ties or floral arrangement material must be made of biodegradable materials if being placed in the ocean. Flower services are available through our vendors.
Q: What are the locations available for scattering at sea?
A: We provide a complete selection of locations from Coronado and the Hotel Del Coronado, to Point Loma and Sunset Cliffs. Locations that are farther from the San Diego are available but may require additional travel time. Please ask us for different options.
Q: What Time Should We Arrive?
A: Please allow plenty of time for traffic and parking and try to arrive at the marina. Please arrive 10 minutes before your boarding time. Your boat leaves the dock promptly at the time listed above.
If you are running late, please give us a courtesy call BEFORE your scheduled boarding time.
If you do not, the boat may leave and you will forfeit your cruise without refund. There is a $150 rebooking fee if you miss your boat.
Q: What Clothes Should We Bring?
A: Dressing in layers is a good idea as San Diego’s temperature can vary by time of day. It’s typically calm in the morning but sometimes breezy in the afternoon, with plenty of sunshine for most of the day. Make sure to bring a sweatshirt or jacket, your sunscreen, sunglasses and hats, along with comfortable, light soled non-slip shoes (no high heels or black bottom shoes of any type, please!).
For winter trips dress warmly. We recommend a warm jacket, gloves and a hat that doesn’t come off easily. You can also wear long underwear and or wind-pants if you get cold easily. Remember it will be cooler on the water than on the land because of the wind.
Q: What About Food/Drinks Aboard?
A: We supply water and a variety of chips and snacks all included at no charge, but you’re certainly welcome to bring any other food or drinks you wish, including your own alcoholic beverages.
Q: What About Seasickness?
A: Our large luxury yacht, sailboats and catamarans are known for being exceptionally stable and very few people get queasy because we usually stay within the calm waters of the bay. If you’re prone to seasickness you can always pick up an over-the-counter medicine at any drug store. If you’re on a whale watching trip or any excursion that takes you out into open waters–and you or somebody in your party might be prone to seasickness–we advise that they take a medication such as Bonine at least 2 hours prior to departure and maybe again one hour before boarding the catamaran. Being seasick is not fun for anyone!
Q: Are your boats Handicap Accessible?
A: Some levels of disability can be accommodated so please call us to discuss your needs prior to making a reservation. We’ll try our very best to help you.
Q: Are There Any Age Restrictions?
A: That depends, kids and boats go together like San Diego and Sunny Weather. Sailors of all ages are welcome but minors must have adult supervision at all times. We supply life jackets for all on board and please be aware that the USCG (United States Coast Guard) requires that children aged 13 and under wear a PFD (personal flotation device or life jacket) at all times when outside on the boat. Infants are not recommended.
Q: Is Smoking Allowed?
A: ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Q: What Makes You Better Than The Competition?
A: Our Sailboat and powered yacht cruises are not “cattle boat” tours that pack people in then bellow out facts and figures on a loudspeaker during a quick whisk around the bay. Our excursions are casual and personal–informative, discreet and hands on but always focused on allowing you and your friends or family to simply relax and take in the beauty of San Diego. Our captains are professional, knowledgeable, and friendly.
Q: What About Bad Weather And Cancellations?
Our sails generally run in light rain and other moderate weather situations, but if you decide at the dock that the weather is just too cold or too wet and windy, we can reschedule or offer you a complete refund. We will only cancel due to severe or unsafe weather conditions (very rare in San Diego) and will, of course, offer you the chance to reschedule.
Q: How do I redeem a Groupon or Living Social Coupon?
A: Simply click the REDEEM COUPONS banner at the top of this website - Follow the simple instructions and schedule your cruise.
Q: What happens if my coupon expires before I can use it?
A: The value of your coupon purchase price will be applied towards another date you are available. Simply pay the difference for the type of cruise you purchased and we will get you rescheduled.
Q: When I call your phone number, all I get is an automated response, why can't I talk to a real person?
A: We spend almost all day sailing, so sometimes we are unable to answer the phone. Many of the questions that are are typically asked can be answered here if you continue reading. If you can't find the answer you are looking for, simply send an email to our office and we will get right back to you when we return from sailing.
Q: How do I know what days are available?
A: We suggest you send us the days YOU prefer to sail, as we do our best to accommodate you. You can always view our calendar and see what days are available. There is a delay on updates to our calendar, so some days that seem to be available may already be booked.
Q: Do you have an office?
A: We are using the power of the Internet to keep your costs down. By NOT having an office and employee's, we are able to pass the savings on to you. This is why we are less expensive than EVERY other Sailing Charter Company in San Diego.
Q: Can I bring my own food and alcohol?
A: YES, We allow BYOB and encourage you to bring your favorite beverages and munchies. We recommend finger foods (small sandwiches, cheese and crackers, etc), as they are easiest to eat on the boat. We call it BYOB for a reason, as we do not keep cups, plates, and napkins on the boat. While having a bit to drink on a boat is a lot of fun, having too much to drink can be a safety hazard, so we request people have a great time, but not overindulge. We do not charge a corking fee!
Q: Will we have the boat to ourselves or will there be others sailing with us?
A: If you want to have the boat to yourselves, you may book a PRIVATE CRUISE. This does not apply to discount coupon holders. Discount coupon vouchers may have an additional couple or two sailing with you. So far, we've seen some fantastic new friendships made on our cruises, so don't worry about sailing with strangers, as they could end up being your newest best friends and sharing their wine and food with you. We don't sail with more than 6 people per cruise, so there is plenty of room to have fun.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: NO - We don't want our furry friends to get sick, so we discourage bringing any pets.
Q: What about "Emotional Support" Animals?
A: Sorry - No Pets !!!
Q: Are children allowed on your cruises?
A: Yes, children are allowed. Sailing with kids under 7 can be stressful for the parents and the crew. We don't have time to help you babysit your child and there are plenty of ways they could get hurt, so good parenting is a must.
We discourage bringing young children along unless you are unable to find a babysitter. All children 13 years old and under MUST WEAR A SAFETY JACKET.
Q: How long does a sailing cruise usually take?
A: Our cruises are between 2 and 3 hours
Q: What will I see on our cruise?
A: We always see Sea Lions, Pelicans and Gulls, and Dolphins are quite frequent playing in the bay.
Q: What if the weather goes bad and we can't sail?
A: We will cancel trips the day of the trip if the weather is bad and you will receive the choice to move your reservation to a better day or receive a full refund if you live out of town. If the fog is drizzling or there is absolutely no wind you will be given a choice. You may go out anyway because you want to see the ocean and all the sea creatures that live there or you may reschedule to another day OR receive a full refund if you live out of town, if that would be your preference.
Q: What is your cancelation policy?
A: If you must cancel less than 72 hrs before your trip please understand that we have probably turned other guests away while holding your spot so unless we are able to book another charter for the same time & duration, no credits or refunds will be issued. To be fair if we can re-book the date we were holding for you, we will give you a full refund or reschedule you for the next available cruise you had purchased.
Please eMail our office as soon as you know you need to cancel and we can usually work something out.
We will cancel trips the day of the trip if the weather is bad and you will receive the choice to move your reservation to a better day or receive a full refund if you live out of town. If it is foggy or drizzling, or there is absolutely no wind, you may be given a choice. You may go out anyway because you want to see the ocean and all the sea creatures that live there, or you may reschedule to another day of your preference.
We accept same day cancellations due to heavy rain, lack of visibility or winds in excess of 20-25 knots.
Additionally, we are happy to provide you with a gift certificate that can be transferred to anyone and has no expiration date, so you never lose the value of a trip. If neither of these options works then we will negotiate a fair compensation with you based upon our expenses and time incurred with regards to Crew and Captain scheduling.
The bottom line is we want your service to be wonderful, and we will do our best to make that happen. Cancellation within or less 72 hrs are not acceptable (full amount forfeited) unless we are able to rebook the date for the same charter duration. No show ups will be charged the full amount and forfeit their cruise.
Private and Group Charter Cancellations:
Private Charters - Private Charters cancelled 31 days or more prior to the charter start date
will be charged a $250 cancellation fee or 10% of original booking fee, whichever is greater.
Cancellations less than 30 days (one month) prior to departure, results in no refund.
Rescheduling is permitted with adequate notice.
Group Charters - Group Charters cancelled 31 days or more prior to the charter start date
will be charged a $250 cancellation fee or 10% of original booking fee, whichever is greater.
Cancellations less than 30 days (one month) prior to departure, results in no refund.
Rescheduling is permitted with adequate notice.
Got More Questions?
Email us at PacificaSailingCharters@gmail.com or call us at 619-887-5443
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