The sea holds a special significance for many. A farewell at sea can be a deeply cherished wish. The National Rescue Museum offers ash scatterings at sea off the coast of Den Helder. We conduct these ceremonies aboard our historic lifeboats, such as the Prins Hendrik. Our volunteers ensure a memorable and unforgettable farewell at sea.
Ash Scattering at Sea
The National Rescue Museum is pleased to arrange ash scatterings in a pleasant and respectful manner. To achieve this, we offer a specialized program. Below, we provide further details.
Reception at the National Rescue Museum
The reception takes place at the National Rescue Museum. Here, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in peace with all attendees and meet the crew of the lifeboat. They have extensive experience in scattering ashes at sea.
The Voyage
Our historic lifeboats provide the sea voyage. Up to 12 people can board. Children are welcome, though we advise against bringing babies aboard. Upon boarding, the Dutch flag flies at half-mast, and the mourning flag is raised.
Depending on the chosen location at sea, we sail towards the Wadden Sea or through the Marsdiep towards the Molengat or Schulpengat and out to open sea. The latter depends on weather conditions. In case of adverse weather, the skipper decides whether it's advisable to sail.
Ceremony for Ash Scattering
Upon arrival, the ship's bell rings three times, followed by a moment of silence. You then have the opportunity to speak and scatter the ashes. Optionally, you can play music and place wreaths or flowers in the water.
Aboard the lifeboat is a special tube used to scatter the ashes over the water. Alternatively, you may opt for a salt urn; a crematorium can provide this upon request. The salt urn is placed overboard intact, sinking and dissolving over time. If you have specific wishes, these can often be accommodated by prior arrangement.
Next, three circles are navigated around the scattering location. Upon departure from the ceremony site, a final salute is given with the ship's whistle sounding three times for six seconds each. Subsequently, the Dutch flag is hoisted to full mast, and the mourning flag is lowered.
The entire ceremony, from departure to return to port, lasts approximately three hours.
Return to the Museum
Following the sea ceremony, upon return to the National Rescue Museum, you can enjoy a cup of coffee. We provide a sea chart with exact coordinates of the scattering location as a beautiful memento of the day.
If desired, we can also arrange lunch, with costs billed separately.
Rates
The fee for ash scattering is €560, based on the use of one boat.
A weekend surcharge of €77 applies.
Rates include VAT.
The National Rescue Museum Dorus Rijkers is not a commercial institution. Revenues support the operational upkeep of historic lifeboats. Your contribution helps preserve the maritime cultural heritage of brave, selfless rescuers and lifeboats.
Contact
Funeral directors can contact us without obligation at (0223) 618 320 or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We can provide further information and discuss any specific requirements. Of course, you can also contact us directly.
