Memorial Ceremony FAQ's
We recognize that the process of a sea burial may be unfamiliar and overwhelming. At Stargazer Yacht Charters, we are committed to guiding you through this solemn journey with dignity and respect, ensuring a peaceful and honorable farewell for your loved one.
Initial Steps:
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Call or email us to discuss your personalized ceremony for your loved one.
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We will furnish you with detailed documents, an invoice, and itinerary for your chosen day of the ceremony via email.
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Complete and return paperwork along with a 50% deposit payment to secure your date, time, and location. Final payment is due 7 days prior to the charter date.
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Urn Requirements:
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Purchased urns must be biodegradable. If you have the original container received from the crematorium it MUST be easily accessible to the cremains so that we can transfer the cremains to the dissemination basket.
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Transfer of Cremains to Stargazer:
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Mailing: Use Priority Mail Express with a (CRE) box and Label #139 provided by your local U.S. Post Office.
For international delivery, contact USPS at (800) 275-8777 or visit USPS.gov.
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Pick up: Arrangements for free local pickup within 10 miles of our office can be made by calling us at (910) 540-4049. Long distance pick up over 10 miles can be made for a nominal fee. Pick up will provided by our company hearse.
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You may bring the cremains in the original container from the crematorium and we will privately transfer the cremains into our dissemination basket.
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Weather and Scheduling:
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Please note that due to the unpredictability of the weather and water conditions, the date and time frame of the charter will be confirmed during the week of and the night before the scheduled charter.
​Required Documentation:
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A copy of the deceased's Cremation Certificate is required.​​
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Memorial Service Timeline:
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Unattended services will be conducted within 15 days of receiving cremains, weather permitting.
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Live streaming, videos, or digital pictures will be provided for transparency.
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The entire cruise varies based on requests which average 3-6 hours.​
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Location Confirmation:
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A certificate of dissemination will be provided with the exact latitude and longitude of your loved ones final resting place. Additional copies of the certificate can be provided for a fee of $10 each.
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Upon completion of the ceremony, you will be presented with an elegantly crafted certificate of dissemination, thoughtfully designed for display. This certificate will meticulously document the date and precisely record the latitude and longitude coordinates of your loved one's final resting place. Our dedicated team ensures that every aspect of this process is conducted with the highest level of care and reverence, reflecting our commitment to honoring your loved one's memory with dignity and respect.
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​Alcohol Policy:
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Responsible alcohol consumption is allowed aboard. You may bring your own as we do not provide alcohol and we will keep it on ice for you.
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NO GLASS BOTTLES PLEASE!
We at Stargazer Yacht Charters are committed to delivering ceremonies of the highest standard, ensuring a safe, respectful, and memorable experience. Our crew dedicates immense effort and attention to detail, both visible and behind the scenes, to exceed your expectations from start to finish.
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While gratuities are not included in our service charges, they are sincerely appreciated. A customary gratuity, typically 20%, is a valued gesture of recognition for the crew's dedication and hard work in facilitating your ceremony with care and dignity. We believe in the profound significance of scattering ashes at sea – a gesture that symbolizes a return to the embrace of nature’s grandeur, honoring your loved one’s final wishes with purity and reverence.