FAQ | Resting Waves

Why are all services unattended?

Due to regulations regarding paying passenger, I am unable to provide this service at this time. You may observe from shore, please contact me to coordinate this. Washington State Ferries does allow the scattering of cremated remains, click here for more information. There are also charter boat services available to accommodate accompanied scatterings of cremains.

How do you scatter the ashes?

I scatter ashes in a unique way, instead of casting the ashes directly into the water, which often blow back at the boat or cling to the sides, I lower the cremains down until they rest on the ocean’s surface. Then, with a gentle push, they can drift away in a beautiful and peaceful manner. You may also choose to provide me with a biodegradable cremation urn, which is specifically designed to gradually release the ashes into the sea click here for more information. This is different from traditional urns, which can also be interned to the ocean.

May I request special services or a specific burial location?

My loved one is a veteran, are their VA benefits to help pay for their burial?

Yes, the VA does provide financial assistance for the burial of U.S. Veterans, click here for more information. I also offer a 10% discount for veterans, please contact me for the coupon code.

Are there any regulations regarding burials at sea?

There are no Washington State laws or British Columbian regulations prohibiting the scattering of ashes in inland bodies of water. The Salish Sea is comprised of The Strait of Georgia, Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, all of which are inland bodies of water and not regulated. Click here for information on EPA regulations and here for Washington State.

If I bring you the cremated remains, do I need to declare them at the U.S. border?

No, there are no requirements for importing human remains that are cremated before entry into the United States (no death certificate needed).