Burial at Sea in Chicago, IL | Ash Scattering Services
Burial at Sea & Ash Scattering Ceremonies in Chicago, IL
Maritime Burials at Sea connects families across the country with licensed, professional captains for dignified burial at sea and ash scattering ceremonies. In Chicago, Illinois, we offer a carefully vetted selection of captained yacht charters designed to help you honor your loved one exactly as they wished — on the open water, with peace and privacy.
Available Vessels in Chicago, IL
We currently offer the following vessels for burial at sea ceremonies in the Chicago area:
- 34ft Luhrs Convertible
- 50ft Double Decker Catamaran (12, 18, 32, or 44 passengers)
Search available vessels in Chicago →
How a Maritime Ceremony Works in Chicago
Booking a burial at sea or ash scattering ceremony through Maritime Burials is straightforward. You select your vessel, choose your date, and our captain handles the rest. Each ceremony is private — just your family and the water. Most charters include a minimum two-hour block so your family has the time and space to grieve, celebrate, and say goodbye properly.
- Select your vessel — Browse captained charters available in Chicago, Illinois based on passenger count, duration, and price.
- Send a booking inquiry — Confirm availability with the boat captain directly.
- Customize your ceremony — Add biodegradable urns, funeral flowers, keepsake jewelry, or other memorial products from our catalog.
- Hold your ceremony — Your captain will take you well offshore on Lake Michigan, away from beaches, harbors, and swimming areas.
Legal Requirements for Ash Scattering on Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is not ocean water, so the federal burial-at-sea rules under the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act do not apply to a ceremony here. There is no three-nautical-mile requirement and no EPA report to file. Scattering on inland waters is governed by state and local rules instead, and Illinois does not prohibit releasing cremated remains into its waters.
What does matter: release only biodegradable materials, and keep the ceremony well away from beaches, docks, piers, harbors, swimming areas, and drinking-water intakes. Some agencies require permission for specific waterways or for scattering from public land rather than from a boat. Our captains know these waters and will position the vessel appropriately. Ask us and we will confirm what applies to your date and location before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions — Chicago Burial at Sea
How far offshore does the ceremony take place in Chicago?
Your captain will choose an appropriate location well away from shore, harbors, and swimming areas.
How many people can attend a burial at sea in Chicago?
Vessel capacity varies. Our Chicago fleet includes options ranging from intimate 6-passenger charters to larger vessels accommodating groups of 40 or more. Filter by passenger count when searching.
Can I bring flowers, urns, or other memorial items?
Yes. We carry biodegradable water burial urns, funeral flowers, and memorial keepsakes that pair beautifully with an at-sea ceremony. Only biodegradable materials may be released into the water.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and vessel. Weekend availability can fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.
Is a burial at sea in Chicago expensive?
Charter prices in Chicago start from a few hundred dollars for smaller vessels and range up for larger luxury yachts. We offer options for every budget — browse our current Chicago listings to see pricing.
Book a Burial at Sea in Chicago, IL
When you're ready to plan a meaningful farewell, we're here to help. Browse available captained charters in Chicago and surrounding Great Lakes communities, or contact us with any questions.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules for inland waters vary by state and by location.
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