Answers to Burials at Sea Frequently Asked Questions |
What time of year are you open for Burials at Sea?May-October in the North East and year round in warm climates. DescriptionWhite Cap performs ocean scatterings off the coastline of Boston, MA as well as from Maine to NY and to FL. We understand the difficulty surrounding this time and will customize the memorial to meet your needs. We first journey three nautical miles to sea (Legal federal boundary for scatterings), select a suitable spot based on wind, tide and family preference then anchor the boat upwind and get settled. With the vessel at anchor, the captain, you or your minister may perform the ceremony, the scattering of ashes and dispensing of biodegradable mementos. The Captain is pleased to perform a short maritime ceremony (we will provide past samples of maritime services for review before hand) and family and friends are encouraged to share readings, poems or music. Flowers work well as they float on the water and mark the location. The ceremony may be brief or last up to an hour. When all has been spoken and the final personal tribute has been made, the Captain will slowly circle the flowers and return to the harbor. The Latitude and Longitude, place and depth / time of the location and event will be recorded on a keep sake certificate. Many times families come back to visit the exact spot on an anniversary date.
Can we do a full body burial versus scattering ashes?It is possible, but a lot more expensive (Prices start at $2,750) but it can be done—we must go approximately 24 miles to sea to 600’ of water to perform this service (Wild Cat Knoll). This is an approximate 5-6 hour port to port service. There is a coast guard specification for the proper weighting, strapping and drilling of sink holes in the casket—we can discuss that with your funeral director. This takes some planning, typically a week or so. What faiths do you serve?All faiths are welcome. Where do the ashes go once they are in the water?Cremains (ashes) typically find their way to the warm ocean currents of the northerly traveling Gulf Stream. The Gulf Stream is the western boundary current of the N. Atlantic and transports significant amount of warm water (heat) poleward. The core of the Gulf Stream current is about 55 miles wide and has peak velocities greater than 5 knots or 6+ mph. 
Click here for more example plots of seasonal averages. Can an ash scattering at sea be combined with another charter?It is not unusual for people to request a Whale Watch, Coastal Sight-Seeing Cruise, or even a casual Fishing Charter in combination with an ash scattering. Prices are in addition. Please contact Captain Brad White (877.897.7700) for information and assistance with setting up your Custom Charter. What is Military Free Burial at Sea?Burial at sea is not just a tradition that was practiced by the Navy of old. It is a means of final disposition of cremains and intact remains that is offered to and still utilized by active duty, retired, and honorable veterans of all branches of the United States military. Military Burial at sea services are performed while the vessel is on official maneuvers. Therefore, it is impossible for the family to be present. The family will be notified by the commanding officer of that vessel of the date time, longitude, and latitude of the committal service. Contact the US Government for details. FAQ'sReservation DetailsA 50% deposit reserves the boat / necessary crew for your date and time for up to three hours and up to 6 people. All of the arrangements can be made by telephone fax or email. An additional fee may apply to travel to specific destinations beyond five miles from Scituate, MA. We offer three boats ranging in size from 33 feet to 45 feet and can accommodate up to forty people (For an additional charge). For your safety and protection, all of our boats are fully insured and piloted by a Coast Guard licensed captain & certified crew. Rates. What is included in the price?Boat, Captain, service (Crew if required for groups over 6), two certificates (More optional), waters, ice and soft drinks are provided. Suggested Tip for Mate if aboard:10-15% of the cost of the charter for attention to detail and outstanding service. Do you have references?We sure do and are happy to share them from Funeral home recommendations to individual family recommendations. Where do we go?3 miles off - shore. Locale: Cape Cod Bay or near a light house of your choosing (Extra cost may apply) Do we have to go 3 miles to sea?Yes. Can we scatter closer on the way in or later?You can keep some ashes if you wish. Not all have to be disbursed at the three mile limit at the same time.Is the White Cap Handicap Accessible?Yes, the White Cap is Handicap Accessible. Is it legal to do this?Yes it is and we report each scattering to the EPA in Boston as required by law. Are you insured?Yes, One Beacon Insurance in Boston representing the Northern Assurance Company of America. A top rated company. Are you licensed?Yes, USCG Master 50 Ton Captain # 1122098. How long are we out for?We steam for about 15-30 minutes to the area for ash disbursal, 30 minutes or so for the service and about 30-40 minutes back—appx 2.5 hours total. Is there a time limit?Usually up to 3 portal to portal hours are allowed. Over that the boat can be retained for $200 per hour. Can the family help decide where to scatter the ashes?We will try to accommodate any requests you may have. Please consult with the captain on your agreed float plan before the scheduled charter. Is there a bathroom aboard?Yes, there is a fully private "head" aboard the White Cap. What's for lunch?Light refreshments are provided. Depending on your package selection, you can bring your own snacks, or hearty box lunches can be provided. What about Alcohol?Responsible Beer and Wine consumption are allowed and within reason. Can we bring music on CD’s on an iPod?Yes, we have a BOSE portable system with remote control for playback and we also have available an optional bagpiper-notice is required for scheduling. Can we take pictures and or video?Yes and we encourage it and the captain will take a family shot for you. Do people generally get sea sick?No. The White Cap has a specially designed hull that provides for a very smooth ride. If I am prone to getting sea sick, what should I do?We recommend you consider staying and viewing from shore as when one person gets sick, others may too. You can view through supplied binoculars and we will call you via cell phone when we start. You can listen to what we are doing. Or, visit our how to prevent sea sickness page and try your best! The White cap has a very steady platform and takes the gently waves nicely. We usually do not have any issues. . If you get woozy while boating, we recommend checking with your Doctor first and taking Dramamine at least 2 hours before departing the dock if you want it to work. It will not work if you wait and take it while underway. Wrist bands and behind the ear devices also work--check with your pharmacist should for your particular preventative situation. How do we dress for the event aboard?We suggest casual, with a wind breaker, light colored soles on your shoes to not mark the light decks. Do I need to bring gear?Please see What to Bring for more specifics on personal clothing and gear needs. Restricted Items (What Not To Bring):Not allowed on board: Illegal substances (non prescription drugs & illicit drugs) or weapons of any kind are to be brought aboard the boat. Violators will be returned to the dock immediately and the trip cancelled without refund. Planning your Trip. Pre Boarding...What to Bring and Do...
Where do we meet the vessel White Cap?Scituate Harbor, Scituate MA. Click here for Directions to White Cap. Where can I learn more about Scituate Harbor?Learn about Scituate Harbor at http://www.allenhousebnb.com/aboutscituate.html What local accommodations do you recommend?The Allan House, Scituate Harbor. http://www.allenhousebnb.com/ Who can I call if I have any questions?Contact White Cap Charters booking office Toll Free at (877) 897.7700 or by e-mail at brad@bradwhite.com Can I contact the boat directly?Yes. The boat phone is (617) 966-1986. The White Cap monitors VHF channel 16. Has this service been in the recent press?Yes, For more information a press release is available. Shipboard Rules & Regulations 2008-2009 Season PolicyWhile at sea, the captain is the sole authority aboard the White Cap…At sea leadership is very important for the comfort of passengers and the safe running of a vessel while at sea. Social input is always welcome. The captain will be in command at all times of the vessel. What the captain says, happens. Enjoy your voyage and be sure to sign the guest book! Restricted Items (What Not To Bring):Not allowed on board: Illegal substances (non prescription drugs & illicit drugs) or weapons of any kind are to be brought aboard the boat. Violators will be returned to the dock immediately and the trip cancelled without refund. DEPOSITS:Booking Deposit required to hold a date & receipt of deposit monies acknowledges POLICY acceptance.
Cancellation Policy:Day of sailing 25% refundable, Within 3 days of sailing 50% of deposit is refundable. Within 7 days of sailing, 100% refundable CHECKS:There will be a $25.00 service charge for any checks returned by the bank. WEATHER POLICY:Your safety and enjoyment at sea is our prime area of focus and responsibility. Should poor weather be forecasted or occur during your charter period, the Captain reserves the right to cancel and/or postpone a sailing for the safety of the passengers and crew. Deposits are 100% refundable in this instance. If the charter has commenced and poor weather eventually rolls in, a mutually acceptable pro rated cost adjustment share of the total fee will be charged, with a minimum fee of $250. The We Promise 100 % SATISFACTION GUARANTEE POLICY:We guarantee your complete satisfaction, if you are not pleased; the Captain will make it right to your liking. We promise! Booking Office
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