Ash Scattering & Burial at Sea on San Francisco Bay
A private memorial boat charter for scattering ashes at sea, also called burial at sea, from Hyde Street Harbor at Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco. The whole boat is yours for up to 6 guests for $700, booked online. Captain Molly files the permit paperwork, and your family sets the pace on the water.
We also hold memorials for pets, and living pets are welcome aboard.
Ash Scattering at Sea(Loved Ones)
A private ash scattering at sea for your family only, up to 6 guests, from Hyde Street Harbor. $700 for the whole boat, and Captain Molly handles the permit paperwork.
Pet Ash Scattering at Sea(Beloved Companions)
A private memorial on San Francisco Bay for a beloved pet, for up to 6 guests, and your living pets are welcome aboard. $700 for the whole boat.
How a memorial at sea works
- Book online and tell us about the person, your family and any readings, music or flowers.
- Meet at Hyde Street Harbor and text Captain Molly from the bench when you arrive.
- Travel to the scattering site, inside the Bay or offshore depending on the weather and your wishes.
- Hold your ceremony and the scattering. Captain Molly records the position and files the paperwork.
Is scattering ashes legal in San Francisco Bay?
- Yes, with a permit. In the Bay, California requires scattering at least 500 yards from the shoreline, not from a bridge or pier (Health & Safety Code §7117).
- Offshore, the EPA’s burial-at-sea permit applies at least 3 nautical miles from land.
- Captain Molly files the state permit and, for offshore scatterings, the EPA report.
What it costs
$700 for the whole boat and captain, for up to 6 guests, with no per-person charge. If no one can come aboard, Captain Molly scatters the ashes on your behalf at the same price. For groups larger than 6 she recommends The Bass Tub (Captain Aaron Anfinson).
More detail on cost, the rules and what happens on the day is in the guide to scattering ashes in San Francisco Bay.
Questions people ask
- How long is a memorial at sea?
- Your family sets the pace. Extra time on the water is $350 an hour.
- How many people can come?
- Up to 6 guests. For larger groups Captain Molly recommends The Bass Tub (Captain Aaron Anfinson).
- Can we bring flowers and music?
- Yes. Loose flowers and anything biodegradable may go into the water, and readings, music and an officiant are welcome.
- What if the weather is bad?
- Captain Molly makes the call for safety. If she cancels for weather you get a full refund or a new date.
- Where does the boat leave from?
- Hyde Street Harbor, 2951 Hyde St, at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.