FAQ's

There is plenty of seating for 6 persons very comfortably both inside and outside of the vessel. The vessel is designed to carry more passengers. However, we are licensed to accommodate up to a maximum of 6 passengers total (infants and toddlers count as passengers). Sorry, there are no exceptions as this is a U.S. Coast Guard regulation.

You will have to go with another company. Captain Dave recommends: Memorials bigccharters.com) 

Usually the surviving spouse or the next of kin will disperse the ashes. We can disperse the cremains at the request of the family. It is your choice. We will do the best we can to fulfill your wishes. You are welcome to bring a clergy member for a prayer service. He/she will be included as one of the 6 passengers. 

1. For all scattering of cremains at sea, we need a burial permit issued by a County (within State of California) Vital Statistics/Health Department at the place of disposition. For out of state requests, the process is quite simple. The county (usually S.F. or Marin) in which the scattering occurs can issue a California disposition of human remains permit. Feel free to call for additional info as we can assist you with this process. 2. We also require a signed "Authorization for Scattering" form for unattended sea scatterings. The "Authorization for Scattering" form is listed on page 3.

Yes

The Captain will position the boat so that the ashes can be dispersed down wind so that they will blow away from the boat.

Yes, other than the Captain and crewman, it is private and confidential. We do not charter to multiple groups at one time.

The family members requesting the ash scattering brings flowers (no artificial flowers). If there is a request for special music, family members are welcome to bring their own songs on a phone with Bluetooth.

It is our experience that people seldom get seasick on the Bay especially in areas of the Bay where we favor scattering of ashes. The possibility of getting seasick increases if the charter is a scattering in the Pacific Ocean off the coastal waters of the Golden Gate where ocean swells exist. However, if getting seasick is a concern, one may consider an over-the-counter medication or a doctor's prescription. 

A standard service usually takes approximately 1½ hours. There is time before or after the service for a beverage, but not for food. If you choose the option of extending your trip with a Bay cruise, you may want to bring food. Bottled water and soda beverages are included in the charter trips.

Unfortunately, due to safety and health concerns, smoking is not permitted on board the vessel.

No, we do not provide this specific service. Burial at sea of human remains that are not cremated can be accomplished by checking with your funeral director and EPA. It is often a lengthy sea journey and can be a very expensive process. Federal regulations require burials of this nature to be made at a specific depth which is far off the Golden Gate. In addition, there are many federal and state requirements that must be met.

You can purchase biodegradable urns or containers which are environmentally safe via the Internet or from mortuaries. 

You might wish to add an Extended Bay Tour option to your event. An extra 1-2 hours at an additional cost of $350.00 per hour on the boat will allow your charter to take a private cruise along the San Francisco waterfront, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and McCovey Cove at AT&T Park. The calm waters at McCovey Cove and usually nice weather make it an ideal location to anchor and have lunch especially during a Giant's game. 

We recommend comfortable flat shoes preferably white soles if possible. High heels are not appropriate on the vessel for safety reasons. Dress warmly and in layers.

Yes. It this referred to as a marine head and it is kept meticulously clean.

Yes, there is an additional charge of $85.00 for scattering the cremains of each additional person. This is due to additional administrative costs incurred with the scattering of each individual.

If it is location is listed as one of the designated sites in the standard rate, the cost is $500.00; If the location is not listed, please call for quote.  

Weekdays and weekends, year-round.

Tips for the captain and/or crewmember are greatly appreciated!

Yes, however, there is an additional charge of $50.00 cleaning fee for medium to large size dogs.

Once family and/or friends have agreed to charter our vessel with us, keep a few dates as options for the ash scattering memorial. The date of service is subject to prevailing weather conditions. You can make reservations by contacting us at (415) 720-6908. You can reserve the event with a credit card via PayPal account or by check. A security deposit of 50% of the total amount is due 48 hours prior to the scheduled event. No refunds are given without at least 48 hours of notice prior to the scheduled event. The full balance is due on the day of the event either in cash or via PayPal account.  

**Please note: there is an additional 3.6 % surcharge fee included if using PayPal/credit cards for payments