• A full‑body sea burial involves the direct committal of an unembalmed body, wrapped in a natural shroud and weighted, into ocean waters deeper than 3,000 metres.
• Not Scatter Remains - It differs from scattering cremated remains, which can usually be performed close to shore without a permit.
• In Australia the practice is legal under the Environment Protection Act 1981. Permits are issued by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
• Contrary to popular belief, it is not reserved for Navy personnel. Any person may choose this option provided their wish is formally recorded.

Below are the seven conditions the federal Sea‑Dumping (the official legal name for sea burial) Section of the act requires before a burial at sea can proceed, along with the way we met each one at Candour:

1. Written proof of the deceased’s wish
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   • What is it: The family needs to supply a signed statement several months prior to the passing.
   • Why it matters: A federal permit will not be granted on next‑of‑kin authority alone.
2. No mortuary chemicals
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   • We provided natural care - bathing, washing and dressing - with no embalming.
   • Why it matters: Embalming fluids can harm marine ecosystems.
   
3. Biodegradable shroud
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   ‍• custom linen shroud sewn closed with cotton thread, with discreet slits to release air bubbles during descent.
   • Why it matters: Ensures only natural fibres enter the ocean.
4. Sufficient ballast
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   • What is it: 125 kg of iron weights secured along the back of the body.
   • Why it matters: Guarantees rapid descent and permanent submersion.
   
5. Burial at a depth greater than 3,000 m
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   • What does this mean in Victoria: We selected coordinates on the continental shelf south-west of Portland, Victoria.
   • Why it matters: Eliminates any chance of re‑emergence.
6. Weather window within 30 days of permit
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   • Why is it required: It allows us to monitored conditions daily and sail at the first safe opportunity.
   • Why it matters: Protects the safety of family and crew.
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7. Extended‑range vessel permit
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   • What is it: A captain lodged approval from Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
   • Why it matters: The burial site lay 46 nautical miles beyond standard charter limits.
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Because the permit prohibits embalming, our care team focused on gentle, natural preparation:

• Warm water bathing with plant‑based soap.
  
• Hair brushed, beard trimmed (at family request).
  
• Body anointed with a small amount of native‑flora essential oil.
  
• Wrapped in a double‑layer linen shroud (unbleached, undyed).
  
• Five iron weights (25 kg each) lashed along the spine.
  
• Custom blanket embroidered with the person’s initials placed over the shroud for transfer and family viewing.
  

We invite you to view a short video capturing moments from the voyage - the endless horizon, the wildlife encounters, and the serene atmosphere.
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• Departure Day
  
  ‍We arrived at the wharf under a salmon‑pink sunrise, greeted by the skipper and deckhand. The vessel, originally built for Cray fishing but now chartered for eco tours, had been adapted with an elevated cradle at the stern to receive the shroud‑bearer.
  
• On‑Board Comfort
  
  • Catering: breakfast boxes (croissant, mini quiche, fruit, juice) served after casting off; lunch packs (roast‑chicken salad, ANZAC biscuit) on the return leg.
  
  • Well‑being: seasickness tablets offered; ginger lollies and electrolytes on hand; sunscreen and spare jackets available.
  
  • Reflection space: a small table inside the cabin held photographs, a candle (unlit for safety) and the biodegradable message papers filled out at the family dinner the night before.
  
• Wildlife Encounters
  
  You may encounter dolphins riding the bow wave or glimpse a majestic wandering albatross soaring alongside, creating unforgettable moments on the journey.
  
• The Committal
  
  ‍At the coordinates verified by the permit the engines are throttled back to an idle. With family members and Candour staff, the shroud‑bearer is slid until the feet cleared the transom. The head end was gently raised and, aided by gravity and ballast, the body entered the water silently, feet‑first, disappearing within seconds.
  
• Examples Rituals & Farewell
  
  • A bouquet of native flowers (gum, banksia, leucadendron) bound with vine, not wire, is laid on the surface.
  
  • Single roses are placed by each family member, honouring their personal connection, while scattered rose petals symbolised the many lives the deceased had touched throughout their lifetime.
  
  • Hand‑written letters on biodegradable paper were released.
  
  • The captain completes a slow 360‑degree guard‑of‑honour, allowing quiet contemplation.
  
• Custom blanket embroidered with the person’s initials placed over the shroud for transfer and family viewing.
  

• How much does a full‑body sea burial cost?
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  Costs for a full-body sea burial typically start from AUD $35,000 upwards. This reflects the many specialised components involved: securing a federal sea-dumping permit, engaging a charter vessel capable of extended offshore travel, arranging a full day’s operation at sea, sourcing biodegradable shrouds and environmentally safe weighting systems, and providing dedicated funeral staff to travel and be present throughout the journey.
  
• Can we combine cremation and sea burial?
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  Yes. Some families hold a traditional funeral on land, cremate, and later scatter ashes at sea without a permit.
  
• Is it possible from other Australian states?
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  Yes, but the distance to 3,000 m depth differs. Queensland and Tasmania have shorter runs; NSW and SA require longer.
  
• What happens if the weather stays rough for 30 days?
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  An extension can be requested, but it is better to apply for the permit when a favourable window is forecast.
  
• Will marine life disturb the site?
  
  The rapid descent, extreme depth (well beyond 3 000 metres) and secure weighting ensure the body settles far below the photic zone, where light ‑ and therefore most scavenging species ‑ cannot reach. Scientific observations of deep‑sea burials show that remains at these depths gradually integrate into the seabed without resurfacing or attracting large predators. In short, the surrounding marine ecosystem is respected and the resting place remains undisturbed.
  

If the peace and symbolism of a full‑body sea burial speaks to you, we encourage you to reach out early. Candour’s experienced team can help you:

• Record your wishes formally so they meet federal permit requirements.
  
• Map out the logistics well in advance, from suitable charter vessels to sustainable materials.
  
• Create a personalised, environmentally conscious ceremony that truly reflects your life and values.
  

Whether you are pre‑planning for yourself or arranging a farewell for a loved one, we are here to guide you through every step with clarity and compassion.