Ash Scattering at Sea
Carolina Beach, NC

This is home. Serene Sea Burials operates from 220 Annie Dr in Carolina Beach — where every ceremony begins. Walk to the dock, meet the captain, and give your loved one the most personal farewell the coast can offer.

Where Every Journey Begins

Carolina Beach is more than a service area for us — it's where we live and work. Our office sits at 220 Annie Dr, steps from the marina where every scattering ceremony departs. When you choose Serene Sea Burials, you're choosing a team that knows these waters intimately, from the tidal patterns to the quietest stretches of open ocean.

For Carolina Beach families, the experience is uniquely personal. You can visit our office in person, hand-deliver your loved one's remains, meet the captain face to face, and on the day of the ceremony, watch the vessel depart from the dock. No shipping, no distance, no waiting — just a neighbor helping your family through one of life's most important moments.

The Service

Our Signature Ceremony

From the Carolina Beach marina, our USCG-certified captain guides you approximately 3 nautical miles into the Atlantic. The scattering takes place in open water under clear sky, with fresh flowers, a moment of silence, and as much time as your family needs.

Because this is our home port, we know exactly when the light is best, when the seas are calmest, and where the most serene waters lie. Sunset ceremonies here are especially breathtaking — the Carolina Beach horizon glows amber and coral as the remains meet the sea.

Included with Every Service

  • Captain-led scattering ceremony
  • Fresh flower arrangement
  • GPS coordinates of scattering site
  • Official Certificate of Sea Burial
  • EPA notification filed within 30 days
  • Digital photos upon request
  • In-person coordination at our office
How It Works

A Personal, Hands-On Process

01

Reach Out

Give us a call or stop by 220 Annie Dr in Carolina Beach. We’ll sit down with you, answer every question, and help you plan the ceremony that feels right.

02

Bring Remains to Our Office

Since you’re local, you can hand-deliver your loved one’s remains directly to our Carolina Beach location. Meet the captain, see the vessel, and know exactly who will be caring for your family member.

03

The Ceremony at Sea

Board the vessel right here at the marina. You’ll travel together approximately 3 nautical miles offshore for a deeply personal scattering ceremony with fresh flowers and a moment of reflection.

04

Documentation & Keepsakes

Before you leave, we’ll share the GPS coordinates of the scattering site. Your official certificate, photographs, and EPA filing follow shortly after.

Have questions about ocean ash scattering for your family in Carolina Beach? We're here to talk — no pressure, no obligation.

Why Families Trust Us

Why Choose Serene Sea Burials

Home Base

This is where we operate. You’re not a remote client — you’re a neighbor.

Intimate

Walk to the dock. Board the vessel. Be present for every moment of the farewell.

Professional

USCG-certified captain who knows these waters better than anyone.

Documented

GPS coordinates, certificate, photos, and full EPA compliance included.

Our Home on the Coast

Carolina Beach — The Heart of What We Do

Carolina Beach is a place people come to find peace — and that's exactly what drew us here. The barrier island sits at the southern tip of New Hanover County, where the Cape Fear River empties into the Atlantic. It's quiet, it's beautiful, and it's the perfect departure point for a final voyage.

Families who live here already understand the pull of the water. Whether it's morning walks along the boardwalk, fishing off the pier at Fort Fisher, or watching the shrimp boats come in at Kure Beach, the ocean is part of daily life. Choosing a sea burial isn't a departure from that life — it's an extension of it.

We also serve families in nearby Kure Beach, Fort Fisher, and Wilmington.

Common Questions

Ash Scattering Questions — Carolina Beach

What should we bring to the ceremony?

We provide everything needed for the scattering, including fresh flowers. You’re welcome to bring additional items like letters, petals, or biodegradable wreaths to place on the water. We recommend comfortable, non-slip shoes and layers — it can be cooler offshore even on warm days. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also a good idea.

What should we expect on the day of the ceremony?

You’ll meet the captain at our Carolina Beach dock. After a brief welcome and overview, your group boards the vessel and heads approximately 3 nautical miles offshore. The captain will guide the ceremony, allowing family members to participate in the scattering and place flowers on the water. The entire experience lasts about 90 minutes from dock to dock.

Is parking available near the dock?

Yes. There is free parking available near our location at 220 Annie Dr in Carolina Beach. We’ll send detailed directions and parking instructions when you book your ceremony. If you’re coming during peak summer months, we recommend arriving a few minutes early.

Can we schedule a sunset ceremony?

Absolutely — sunset ceremonies are among our most requested options and Carolina Beach offers some of the most stunning evening light on the coast. We’ll time the departure so the scattering takes place as the sun meets the horizon. Sunset timing varies by season, so we’ll coordinate the schedule with you in advance.

How many guests can attend?

Our vessel accommodates up to 6 guests in addition to the captain. This creates an intimate, unhurried atmosphere. If your group is larger, please contact us — we can discuss options for additional family members to watch the departure from the dock or arrange consecutive trips.

What happens if the weather is bad on our scheduled day?

Safety is our first priority. If conditions are unsafe or would significantly diminish the experience, we’ll contact you to reschedule at no additional charge. Being based in Carolina Beach means we monitor conditions closely and can often offer an alternative date within just a day or two.

Can we visit the scattering site afterward?

Yes. We provide the exact GPS coordinates of the scattering location, and families are welcome to charter a boat or simply visit the Carolina Beach shore to feel close to their loved one anytime. Many families return on anniversaries or meaningful dates to reflect by the water.

Visit Us in Carolina Beach

Stop by 220 Annie Dr or give us a call. We're here whenever you're ready.