Biodegradable Urns for Burial at Sea

Biodegradable urns offer families a meaningful, environmentally responsible option when planning an ash scattering or burial at sea. These urns are designed to return naturally to the ocean, leaving no lasting footprint while providing a calm, intentional moment of farewell.

Biodegradable urns are available in many shapes, sizes, and materials, including paper, sand, gelatin, and salt. While an urn is not required for burial at sea, many families choose one when they prefer a more structured ceremony or do not wish to scatter cremated remains directly into the water.

For some families, especially those with religious or personal considerations, biodegradable urns allow the cremated remains to stay together while still honoring the ocean environment. The setting of the open sea often provides a peaceful space for reflection, remembrance, and healing.

Why Families Choose Eco-Friendly Urns

There are a few reasons for using a biodegradable urn, including personal preference. We have many families that do use them.

Group Participation

Some families choose multiple small biodegradable urns so that each family member can take part in the farewell. This shared moment allows everyone to participate meaningfully and feel included in the ceremony.

Windy Conditions

When services take place on the ocean, wind can be unpredictable. Using a biodegradable urn helps prevent blowback, keeping the ceremony clean, respectful, and comfortable for everyone on board.

Religious Reasons

Certain religious traditions, including Catholic beliefs, prefer that cremated remains remain together. A biodegradable urn allows families to honor these traditions while still choosing burial at sea.

Ocean-Approved Biodegradable Urns

Under California regulations, biodegradable urns used for ocean placement must dissolve completely within a short period of time. Our ocean-approved urns are designed specifically for burial at sea and fully break down after placement in the water.

Each urn includes a biodegradable inner bag to hold the cremated remains. Although the bag may resemble plastic, it dissolves quickly upon contact with water and leaves no residue behind.

Because of our extensive experience with burial at sea, we keep a wide selection of approved biodegradable urns available for families to view and choose from.

Turtle Urn

Our handcrafted biodegradable turtle urns are among the most popular choices for burial at sea. Made from recycled paper and environmentally friendly materials, they are designed to hold a standard amount of cremated remains.

The urn floats briefly before gently sinking beneath the surface. Smaller “baby turtle” urns are also available, allowing multiple family members to participate in the ceremony. Families often pair these with rose petals or flowers for a meaningful farewell.

Rock Salt Urn

Rock salt urns are hand-carved from solid blocks of natural salt believed to be millions of years old. Each urn is unique and offers a striking, dignified presentation.

Cremated remains are placed inside a biodegradable bag before being placed in the urn. Due to their density, salt urns are heavier than other options and sink quickly once placed in the water.

Whale Urn

Biodegradable whale urns are handcrafted from recycled paper materials and are similar in design to the turtle urns. They are a popular choice for families whose loved one felt a strong connection to the ocean or marine life.

These urns float briefly before slowly sinking, creating a peaceful and symbolic moment during the ceremony.

Biodegradable Pillowtop Urn

Pillow-style biodegradable urns are a simple and affordable option for burial at sea. They float briefly before gently sinking and are available in several colors, including ocean blue, dark blue, white, gray, and green.

Sand Urn Urn

Sand urns are made entirely from natural sand and designed to dissolve naturally over time. When placed in the water, they float briefly before slowly sinking.

Each urn features delicate footprint designs, symbolizing the journey of life and the path a loved one has taken.

Biodegradable Shell Urn

Sea shell biodegradable urns are crafted from recycled paper and available in blue, sand, pearl, and coral. Matching keepsake urns are also available, allowing families to retain a small portion of cremated remains as a personal remembrance.

These urns float gracefully before slowly sinking and returning naturally to the ocean.

Biodegradable Serenity Series – Sand Dollar Urns

The Serenity Series includes simple, elegant biodegradable urns available in plain designs or adorned with a lotus leaf, dolphin, or sand dollar motif.

The top is removable, allowing cremated remains to be placed inside a biodegradable bag before the urn is sealed. These urns float for a short period before gently sinking beneath the waves.

Important Note About Outside Urns

If you choose to bring an urn that was not purchased through us, please ensure it is fully biodegradable and water-soluble. Some urns are intended only for land burial and are not suitable for ocean placement.

Viewing Our Urn Options

We have many photographs available showing how biodegradable urns behave during burial at sea ceremonies. Our staff is always available to answer questions and help families choose an option that feels right for them.