Outstanding
Our first starting point in ash interment is "goodbye". In our lives we say goodbye countless times, but there is one farewell that can weigh heavily, that is the farewell after the end of life of a loved one, which is why we pay special attention to it. We emphasise the human aspect, without paying attention to ecclesiastical or secular elements, unless the deceased has insisted on this. Every ceremony is equally important to us. We envelop such a farewell in a 'sea' of respect and empathy, without becoming corny in the process.
A second starting point is the maritime traditions we want to uphold. For this, we mainly base ourselves on the English military, maritime, traditions, which score highest in this.
The funeral director and the family can contribute with the necessary freedom, without compromising safety standards on the ship.
Often, the funeral will be preceded by a conversation with the family and/or the funeral director to personalise the ashes as much as possible. During this conversation, the course of the ceremony will also be explained. The family will be asked if anyone wishes to read a text themselves, and the master of ceremonies will always be asked to provide the text in advance, so that he can take over well prepared if the reader is overcome by too many emotions.
Embarkation, beginning of the ceremony
A sailing at sea - especially the lowering of an urn - is an extraordinary experience for many. Embarkation should be a moment of reflection and tranquillity.
The ceremony begins with the moving sound of the boatman's whistle, traditional signal in the British Navy, as the remains are brought on board. The master of ceremonies brings the urn on board.
Mooring ropes are untied. The ship sails out quietly and those on board are given explanations about ceremony, ship, port, port authorities and regulations, weather, safety....
Possibility of a drink when discovering serenity of sea and surroundings.
Lowering and reflection
The sailing route leads along the coast to the place of lowering, suggested or not by the family. Custom music can be played, but often the tranquillity, the sound of the wind, the seagulls, the surge of the water, is chosen.
At the place of lowering, a bell sounds. Reverent sign that the urn is now being taken to the tub by the master of ceremonies.
The master of ceremonies, funeral director and/or family can bring texts. Family and friends pay respect one last time by touching the urn, a kiss, a heartfelt gesture as a farewell.
One nautical mile offshore, the master of ceremonies drops the urn. The spot is carefully chosen according to family wishes and helmsmanship of the captain, watchful of shipping, currents and wind. Heartbroken, the boatman's whistle breaks for a second time, the silence of thoughts and murmurs of the sea.
Family and friends sprinkle a beautiful swirling carpet of flowers around the urn.
The most beautiful moment of reflection. Also, a good opportunity to take photos.
Then a glass of gin is served to family and friends which, according to maritime traditions, is drunk only half. The other half is in honour of the deceased and poured into the waves.
Three blasts on the ship's horn announce the final salute and the end of the ceremony.
After the ceremony
For peace of mind and to strengthen family and friendship ties, gentle sailing back and forth -- and snacks and drinks are offered -- according to agreed times ranging from a few minutes to more than an hour. There is choice whether to hoist the sails. Sailing relaxes the heart.
Sailing into port concludes the ceremony. When leaving the ship, exact geographical coordinates of the lowering are still given which allows marking that place on Google Maps. And to organise birthdays or other moments of remembrance together with us or your own boat.
The urne
The urn is marine bio-degradable by legal standards. Sometimes made of paper, sand, salt, or gelatine. The urn floats on the water for some time, sinks to the bottom and then leaves the ashes to the elements.
Place of descent
We strictly adhere to the relevant regulations regarding the location of the landing. We sail to a minimum of 1 mile from the shoreline before lowering the urn. As said before, we provide the exact geographical coordinates of the descent to the family of the deceased.