Scattering of Ashes at Sea Gaining Favor

The scattering of ashes at sea has emerged recently as a new option for bereaved families and relatives for the final repose of the deceased person’s remains amid a major change in attitudes in Japan towards funerals and graves. As the years go by, ash scattering is becoming more widely accepted, and the desire to “return to Nature after death” has appealed to more and more people.

The Law on the scattering of ashes at sea

There is currently no explicit law pertaining to the scattering of ashes at sea, but the Ministry of Justice has expressed the opinion that “so long as [the ash scattering at sea] is conducted discreetly and with the objective of holding a funeral then it does not amount to an offense under s. 190 Criminal Code, which forbids the abandonment of human remains. The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor has similarly expressed the opinion that there is “no provision in the Cemeteries and Burials Act which prohibits it”.

Scattering of ashes at sea: the rules

The scattering ashes of the deceased at sea must be carried out discreetly so as not to offend those whose lives depend on the sea or those enjoying marine leisure activities. They should be treated with respect. Currently, the National Association of Approved Ash Scattering Vessels comply with Association constraints, which includes the requirement to scatter ashes at sea beyond at least one nautical mile (1NM or 1,852m) offshore. Also, the stalks and wrapping around flowers cast over the side with the ashes are first removed in order to protect the marine habitat.

Licensing of ash-scattering vessels and pilots

For a vessel to be allowed to carry passengers and scatter ashes at sea, it must be registered as a charter vessel and approved by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The scattering of ashes at sea by un-licensed vessels (fishing vessels and leisure craft) is a breach of s.20 of the Maritime Transport Act, so care is necessary as the penalties for being caught are severe. The pilots of licensed vessels must also be properly licensed. Our cruiser captain is a veteran sailor with a deep knowledge of the waters around Tokyo Bay and Sagami Bay whose vast experience contributes much to a safe and relaxing voyage.

Application Acceptance Condition

Please contact us by phone or via our application form and we will make an official reservation with a cash deposit in advance. Please wire JPY 30,000 to our corporate account below . The credit card function is currently under preparation. We are sorry for the inconvenience caused.

Account for Bank Transfer

Please compensate for the wire transfer fee. The wire transfer request form or book entry at the financial institution will replace the receipt.

Cancellation policy

※If you cancel your reservation due to your personal convenience, you will be charged cancellation fee based on the conditions below. ※Rescheduling due to the weather / or sea condition will not be charged. ※Cancellation after powdering of the bones requires a powdering price and cancellation fee based on the cancellation date.