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Hold a private, 90-minute burial at sea from Dana Point aboard a fast, stable Zodiac. This intimate charter balances speed, safety, and respect—perfect for families seeking a focused send-off.
Hold a private, 90-minute burial at sea from Dana Point aboard a fast, stable Zodiac. This intimate charter balances speed, safety, and respect—perfect for families seeking a focused send-off.
Book with Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
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Operated by Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari · Dana Point, California
Ash Scattering on a Zodiac offers a compact, focused way to hold a burial at sea from Dana Point, California. The experience begins at the harbor and unfolds on a rigid-hull inflatable (Zodiac-style) boat built for speed and stability. In a 90-minute private ceremony for up to 20 guests you can move quickly to a chosen offshore site, scatter cremated remains, and return with minimal transit while keeping the moment intimate and dignified.
These Zodiacs are among the fastest vessels in the fleet—capable of 30 knots or more—so the ocean reaches beyond the headlands arrive sooner. The boats feature heavily padded seats with backs, large sunshades, and a low center of gravity that can make the ride feel steadier for guests prone to seasickness. For families bringing flowers, wreaths, or mementos, everything placed in the water must be biodegradable; no wire, ribbon, or plastic. Music can be played via a Bluetooth speaker if requested in advance.
Logistics are handled with a professional, purposeful approach: after booking, the operator calls to confirm details and answer questions. Important legal steps are required—the Orange County Health Care Agency's permit (Disposition of Cremated Remains) must be obtained before any scattering. Permits can be arranged through a California licensed funeral establishment or in person; the operator provides guidance but cannot issue permits.
The coastline off Dana Point opens into broad Pacific swells, kelp forests, and granite outcrops that concentrate marine life. Keep an eye out for common local sightings such as common dolphins cutting through the wake and California sea lions hauled on rocks. On clear days the silhouette of Catalina Island sits on the horizon; on softer light the water becomes a reflective stage for ceremony.
Practical considerations matter: groups should limit to the recommended 20 guests for comfort, disclose any mobility restrictions or health issues—these boats can be bouncy at top speed—and request the Bluetooth speaker or any special accommodations ahead of time. Extended charters can be arranged if you want a slower, more contemplative transit.
In a region known for whale watches and recreational charters, this Zodiac-based burial at sea stands out because it marries speed, safety, and ceremony. It gives families a private way to honor a loved one with a brief, structured voyage that respects both the deceased and the marine environment.
Rates are transparent: 90-minute charters start at $455.80 for 1-6 passengers, $604.20 for 7-10, and $1,113 for 11-20 (gratuity added at checkout). The operator will call after booking to confirm the permit, passenger list, and any special requests—ask about slower transits or extended charter time if you prefer a gentler crossing. For families seeking a focused, respectful send-off, this Zodiac option balances speed, dignity, and an ocean-minded approach.
easy.
90 minutes.
Light mobility needed—able to step into a low-slung Zodiac and remain seated for the transit; not recommended for those with unstable neck/back injuries.
Yes. A Disposition of Cremated Remains permit from the Orange County Health Care Agency must be obtained before the scattering; permits can be secured through a California licensed funeral establishment or in person.
The Zodiac is recommended for up to 20 passengers for comfort; pricing tiers are 1-6, 7-10, and 11-20 passengers.
Yes—there is a Bluetooth speaker available but you must request it in advance so the crew can have it ready.
Bring biodegradable flowers or mementos only, warm layers, sun protection, and any motion-sickness remedies you need.
Zodiacs have low seating and a low center of gravity which helps stability, but they can be bouncy at high speed—disclose mobility issues when booking and request a slower transit if needed.
Gratuity is customary on private charters and is added during checkout; the operator will confirm details after booking.
Dana Point is named for Richard Henry Dana Jr., author of Two Years Before the Mast, and has a long maritime heritage as an Orange County harbor and fishing community.
The operator enforces biodegradable-only rules and requires permits to minimize environmental impact; guests are asked to leave no trace and avoid non-biodegradable offerings.
Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari operates from Dana Point, California, offering guided marine wildlife excursions aboard a fleet that includes zodiac-style boats, spacious catamarans, and private yachts. The company provides a mix of public safaris and private charters tailored for wildlife viewing, special events, and memorial services. Trips span short, high-energy zodiac adventures to full-day offshore safaris and themed cruises such as the Pacific Airshow and the Dana Point holiday boat parade. Experienced captains and naturalist guides offer narrated tours that focus on responsible wildlife viewing and passenger safety. Standout options include the Zodiac Private Charter for 1–10 passengers, the Dolphin & Whale SUPER Safari eight-hour offshore cruise, and private yacht charters on vessels such as ORCA, Hoku Nai’a, and Manute'a. Short zodiac trips emphasize active, fast-paced rides with opportunities for close marine encounters and treats like Mrs. Capt. Dave’s brownies. Specialized services include private ash scattering ceremonies conducted respectfully at sea, customizable private charters for celebrations, and seasonal event cruises such as airshow viewing and fireworks. All outings include safety briefings, life jackets, and experienced crew support. Departure point, vessel details, and customization options are provided at booking to help customers select the appropriate trip. Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari emphasizes authentic wildlife encounters, varied vessel choices, and flexible private charter options from Dana Point Harbor, making it a reliable choice for visitors seeking marine wildlife viewing, special-event cruises, or memorial services at sea.
Book with Captain Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari