Which Cruise Lines Allow Ash Scattering? (Updated 2025)
When families reach out and say,
“They loved the ocean — can we say goodbye at sea?”
I always pause before answering.
There’s something deeply tender in that question — a longing to return someone you love to a place that feels infinite, free, and familiar.
The good news is: yes, you can.
Most major cruise lines — including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess — do allow ash scattering at sea when a few gentle rules are followed. Below is a caring, up-to-date guide for 2025 to help you plan that farewell calmly and confidently.
Cruise Lines That Allow Ash Scattering (2025 Update)
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean welcomes families wishing to hold a private ceremony at sea.
You’ll need to coordinate through Guest Services once on board — they’ll guide you to a quiet deck, usually when the ship is far from land.
They ask that:
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The urn is fully biodegradable (no plastic, metal, or synthetic pieces).
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The ceremony takes place at least 3 nautical miles from shore.
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A biodegradability certificate may be requested (included with Pachamama urns).
🕊️ Tip: Choose sunrise or sunset; many families find those moments peaceful and intimate.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival allows ash scattering ceremonies in international waters.
They ask that families:
- Use a biodegradable urn designed for water release.
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Bring death and cremation certificates (copies are fine).
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Coordinate ahead with Guest Services to schedule the time and location.
🌿 Note: Carnival’s crew often assists quietly and respectfully — these moments are handled with care.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line supports onboard ceremonies with warmth and understanding.
Families can hold a brief farewell on an open deck once the ship is at sea.
No special permit is required — just the same EPA guidelines observed for any U.S. ocean burial (3 nautical miles from shore, biodegradable materials only).
✨ Many families bring petals or native flowers to scatter after releasing the urn.
Princess Cruises & Holland America Line
Both lines are known for their compassionate handling of sea memorials.
They request advance notice — usually a short form through Guest Services.
Ceremonies are private, biodegradable materials only, and often arranged during calm sailing conditions.
Remember: If your ceremony happens in U.S. waters, the EPA asks that you file a short online report within 30 days. It’s simple, free, and helps keep ocean burials environmentally sound.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney handles memorial requests on a case-by-case basis.
They typically allow ceremonies during select itineraries, coordinated through Guest Services.
Biodegradable urns are required, and families are asked to hold the moment discreetly.
Even within Disney’s gentle world, there’s understanding for those who need to say goodbye.
What to Bring for a Cruise Ship Farewell
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Biodegradable urn (cruise-approved)
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Biodegradability certificate (included with Pachamama urns)
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Death and cremation certificates (copies are fine)
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Natural flower petals or biodegradable wreath
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A soft towel and hand wipes for afterward
You can download a free worksheet to help organize your moment at sea:
👉 Download the EPA Burial-at-Sea Family Worksheet (PDF)
What to Expect That Day
When the ship slows and the wind softens, the ocean opens.
A crew member might stand nearby quietly, or you may be left alone.
You’ll set the urn on the water — it floats for a few moments, then begins to sink gently, dissolving into light and depth.
Many families scatter petals afterward, or share a memory in silence.
It’s not about ceremony, really — it’s about presence.
Letting the water hold what your hands no longer can.
After the Ceremony
If your ceremony took place in U.S. waters, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) asks that you file a quick report within 30 days.
There’s no cost, and it can be done online here:
File the EPA Burial at Sea Report
Keep a copy for your family records. Many families find comfort in knowing they honored both love and nature.
A Note From Pachamama
At Pachamama, we design biodegradable urns that are cruise-approved, EPA-compliant, and handmade with care.
But more than that, we believe every farewell should carry beauty and ease.
Whether your voyage begins in Miami, Los Angeles, or the Caribbean, know this:
your loved one’s return to the ocean is more than a ritual — it’s a continuation.
“The ocean doesn’t take — it carries. What we release, it holds.”
With tenderness,
Virginia
❓FAQs – Cruise Ship Ash Scattering (2025)
Do I need permission to scatter ashes on a cruise ship?
Yes—coordinate with Guest Services. Most lines allow private ceremonies at sea when arranged in advance and held with a biodegradable urn.
Which cruise lines allow ash scattering?
Policies vary, but Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Princess, and Holland America generally accommodate ceremonies at sea with biodegradable urns and advance notice.
Is a biodegradability certificate required?
Many cruise lines request it. Pachamama includes a biodegradability certificate with each water urn—keep a digital/printed copy.
Can we scatter from our stateroom balcony?
Typically no. For safety and environmental reasons, crews guide families to a designated open deck while the ship is at sea.
What are the EPA rules for U.S. waters?
Release must occur ≥ 3 nautical miles from shore. After the ceremony, file the EPA Burial-at-Sea report within 30 days.
Are flowers or wreaths allowed?
Yes—natural, biodegradable petals/wreaths only. No plastic ribbons, wire, foam, or glitter.
Can I fly with the urn before boarding the cruise?
Yes, if the container is x-rayable (TSA requirement). Travel with death & cremation certificates and your biodegradability certificate.
How do we schedule the ceremony onboard?
Visit Guest Services soon after embarkation. They’ll confirm time, location, and any ship-specific guidance.
Is there a cost for the ceremony?
Most lines do not charge for a simple, family-led moment. Third-party or private services—if requested—may have a fee.