Most people are not aware of the protocol for scattering human ashes at sea.

For starters, you must be accompanied by a licensed captain. Your boat must be located at least three nautical miles from shore and any other vessel. Once you’ve arrived at the desired location, the captain should position the boat into the wind and, if possible, drop an anchor to keep the boat turned in the proper direction. You’ll want to perform the scattering from the back of the boat. It is here one can conduct a ceremony, say a few words, read a poem and the like. If you’re planning on pouring ashes directly into the sea, it is advisable to use a scattering tube to prevent the cremains from being blown back into the faces of mourners. Scattering tubes come in many designs and are available on Amazon for about $59. Just hold the tube as low to the water as possible and pour.