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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the laws of spreading ashes?
Kapenas adheres to all regulations set forth by the EPA as well as the State. Under the permit by the EPA: Cremated remains shall be buried in or on ocean waters of any depth provided that such burial takes place at least three nautical miles from land.
What are the EPA Regulations?
Scattered cremated remains are scattered in accordance with a general permit set forth by the EPA under Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA), Required EPA Paperwork Filing - US Code (40CFR229.1). Kapenas files these forms within 30 days of the service.
Is it safe for the environment to scatter cremated remains?
Yes. We ensure ashes are released in an ethical, respectful, and environmentally safe manner.
How long is a group attended burial at sea service?
Our service last about 90 minutes to 2-hours from Port to Port. If you would like extra time with your family, we can arrange for a fee.
Do you co-mingle ashes?
No. The remains of your loved one are not commingled with other clients. We take pride in giving your loved one a dignified and beautiful final farewell.
How are the cremains scattered in the ocean?
Our method of scattering cremated remain eliminates the error of having ashes in the wind, coming back at you. Using a basket of banana leaves and rose petals, we will instruct you how to lower the basket it into the water. This is beautiful, ceremonial way of spreading ashes and saying goodbye to your loved one.
How do I book an Unattended Scattering at sea?
Our online ordering system is 100% secure and encrypted, only takes a few minutes.
Are burial at sea ceremonies child-friendly?
It is our priority to ensure the safety of all our guest including children of all ages.
Is sending cremains in the USPS mail reliable?
In our experience, the USPS is very reliable in their express service specifically for cremains (ashes). If you are local in the Miami-Dade, Broward County, or Palm Beach County, please call us to arrange a free pickup by one of our Captains.
What should I bring to a burial at sea?
Just the urn of ashes.
What if I get sea sick?
We offer unattended ceremonies that take the worrying out of bad weather and sea sickness. Simply provide us the remains of your loved one and will provide an honorable service with documentation via a micro video and video so you can watch from the comfort of your own home.
Do you offer unattended scatterings?
Absolutely, we offer unattended sea burials with latitude and longitude coordinates along with video as we scatter the ashes at sea. You may also provide us with a prayer or note that our captain can read off during the ceremony. Flowers and wreaths are also available. Just because you can’t make be there, it doesn’t mean we don’t make it beautiful and dignified.
Do you offer group scatterings?
We cater to intimate groups, up to 12 persons. Each boat comes with bathroom, water, and a USCG captain and mate.
What is the standard tip for your service?
Our captain and crew work extremely hard before, during, and after your trip to ensure your short time with us exceeds your expectations. It is our duty to provide a safe and dignified trip for everyone on board. A standard tip is included.
Where do we mail the remains?
You may mail the cremated ashes directly to us for unattended ceremonies or bring them with you for your attended ceremony. We also offer pickup services to those within our service areas.
How do I get my loved one’s ashes to Kapenas?
You may use USPS Express Mail, with your precious cargo, which often arrives in one-day. USPS even provides you with packaging materials. Once we have the ashes in our possession, we will provide you with a digital photo and we will schedule the ceremony.
When will the ceremonies be performed?
Upon receiving the cremated remains, we do all scatterings within 14 business days. For expedited service, specific dates time, locations are available.
Will there be proof of scatterings?
Your captain will fill out our certificate of scattering service that includes name of deceased, latitude and longitude coordinates and date along with their signature. You may upgrade to full video of the ceremony as well.
What is the process of scattering the ashes?
Whether your choose an unattended or attended ceremony we go offshore about 3 miles. We highly recommend our basket ceremony as it a beautiful way to say your final goodbyes. Upon releasing your loved ones remains into the water, we circle them up to 5 times. The entire ceremony takes about 90 minutes to two hours from start to finish.
Can I bring my own flowers or wreath?
Absolutely. Bring as many flowers, rose petals and wreath as you would like. Wreaths and leis must be made with biodegradable material. We include two-dozen roses with your basket ceremony; however more is always welcomed. We can even pre-arrange to pick up your flowers per your request.
What is your policy on cancellations?
All cancellations must be made at least 45 days in advance. Once within 45 days, there are no refunds. Read FULL cancellation policy here.
Do you offer discounts?
We offer a 10% discount with proof of being in law enforcement and military.
Do you consider conservation?
Our company is focused on the conservation of our South Florida waterways and only uses water-safe, biodegradable, organic products such as natural wreaths and fresh flowers.
Do you consider conservation?
Our company is focused on the conservation of our South Florida waterways and only uses water-safe, biodegradable, organic products such as natural wreaths and fresh flowers.
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