Your captain meets your group at the dock, takes you to the scattering spot, and gives you time for words, music, flowers or silence. Afterward, the captain records the coordinates of the scattering so your family always knows where it took place. Biodegradable urns and flowers can be ordered from our memorial store and delivered before your service.

Scattering rules in Yorktown

Captain license

Not required

Inside Yorktown waters

Not settled

York River and Chesapeake Bay (inside waters); Atlantic Ocean beyond Cape Henry

Ocean

3+ nautical miles from land

Federal rule. Report to the EPA within 30 days.

Longest ocean run of the four: down the York River and across the lower Bay to past Cape Henry, then 3 nm out; rough estimate about 25-30 nm each way (confirm on chart). The York River has Naval Weapons Station Yorktown / Cheatham Annex danger zone and restricted area (33 CFR 334.270, 334.285) right off Yorktown. Yorktown is in York County.

Full Virginia guide: permits, paperwork and sources

Last checked October 15, 2026. A summary, not legal advice.