San Diego Burial at Sea Reviews

Lauren Hudspeth 2026.04.07

     

San Diego Burial at Sea did an amazing job for our family. Every one I spoke to on the phone in advance and interacted with in person on the day of was utterly professional, caring, capable, and competent. They arranged military honors at the marina with a flag and a bugler playing Taps and our captain rang the bells when we put the urn in the water. We are so grateful for the entire experience. I recommend them wholeheartedly.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea

Thank you, Lauren, for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. It was truly an honor to serve your family and to help create a meaningful tribute.

We’re especially glad the military honors, the playing of Taps, and the bell ceremony came together in a way that felt fitting and memorable. Those moments carry deep significance, and our team is committed to ensuring they are handled with the respect and care they deserve.

Your kind words about our staff mean a great deal to us. We strive to provide a seamless and supportive experience from the first call through the day on the water.

We’re grateful for your trust and recommendation, and we wish you and your family continued peace.

Daniel 2026.03.24

     

My family's experience with San Diego Burial at Sea was special and far exceeded our expectation and are truly grateful and appreciative. While this was a unique situation in bringing my mother’s ashes back from overseas, from the beginning in booking process Tawanna was so kind and helpful in explaining how the process worked and provided a letter required for customs to bring the ashes back. They provided the option to pay a deposit until I decided on a date and provided the letter within a day. My family received a warm welcome from the captain and the first mate and made us all feel very comfortable, and the boat was beautiful, clean, and comfortable. The first mate was above and beyond in putting everything together in preparing the flowers and ashes in a nice display. Everyone at San Diego Burial at Sea, from start to finish, made this experience one to remember fondly and will be forever grateful.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea

Daniel, thank you for sharing such a thoughtful message. We’re truly honored that your family chose us for your mother’s return to the ocean, especially given the complexities of bringing her home from overseas.

Tawanna will be so glad to hear your kind words — she cares deeply about making sure families feel supported every step of the way. We’re also grateful our captain and crew were able to provide a welcoming and comfortable experience for you and your family.

It means a great deal to know the service felt meaningful and well-coordinated. Thank you again for trusting us during such an important moment. Wishing you and your family continued peace and comfort.

eileen dean 2026.02.10

     

I can't thank you enough for arranging for my husband's burial at sea. Captain Liz and mate Ellen were incredible. We were able to accommodate 2 children under 5 & 7 adults comfortably . It was the perfect send off for a sea captain !

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea

Eileen, thank you so much for your kind words — and for sharing the beautiful photos. It truly means a great deal to us.

We’re honored that we could help arrange such a meaningful burial at sea for your husband. For a sea captain, there is something especially fitting and powerful about a final farewell on the water. Captain Liz and Ellen will be so touched to hear your thoughtful comments — they both care deeply about making each journey respectful, comfortable, and memorable for every family on board.

We’re especially glad the children were able to be there and that everyone felt comfortable together. Moments like that become lasting memories.

Thank you again for trusting us during such an important time. Wishing you and your family continued peace and comfort.

Valerie Gilhooly 2026.02.06

     

It was perfection, a beautiful emotional experience aboard The Aolani . The crew was amazing, especially Angie who took care of everything from the flowers, ashes, & reading, etc. A wonderful tribute to our loved one. San Diego Burials at Sea will always be a loving memory for all of our family.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea

Valerie, thank you so much for taking the time to share this beautiful review. We’re truly honored that your experience aboard The Aolani was meaningful for you and your family. Creating a space that feels peaceful, personal, and supportive during such an emotional moment is something we take very seriously.

We’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to Angie and the crew — they care deeply about every detail, and it means a great deal to know their efforts helped create a fitting tribute for your loved one. Thank you for allowing San Diego Burial at Sea to be part of such an important farewell. It’s a privilege we don’t take lightly, and we’re grateful to be part of a memory that your family will always hold close.

PATRICI A SHAW 2026.02.05

     

Very professional staff I'm glad I chose burial at sea

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea

Thank you, Patricia, for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience. We’re honored that you chose burial at sea and trusted our team during such an important moment. Providing professional, respectful care for families is always our priority, and we truly appreciate your confidence in us.

Kassandra Campbell 2026.01.25

     

Tawanna(first contact,) Liz (captain,) Ella (burial attendant,) thank you for all your help and support during this difficult time for our family. Tawanna was very thorough and helpful when I was arranging to scatter my mother’s ashes out to sea. Liz and Ella were great the day of the service, they were very patient, listened to our concerns, and Liz even went above and beyond for our littles.

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Lisa Howe 2026.01.03

     

We had a terrible experience with the scattering of my dad's ashes. The staff on the boat were rude, pushy, and did not respect repeated boundaries. I cannot ever do this experience again and it will forever be marred by the bizarre behavior of the staff on the boat. When we were asked to provide feedback to Tawanna, we received a very dismissive response. Then we tried to speak to her on the phone and couldn't reach her during business hours. Huge disappointment.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2026.01.05

We are truly sorry to hear that your experience did not reflect the care and dignity we strive to provide every family.
A scattering at sea is meant to be a deeply personal and respectful moment, and we are very concerned to learn that you felt your boundaries were not honored and that our follow-up communication felt unsatisfactory. That is not acceptable, and we take this feedback seriously.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We have reviewed this internally and remain committed to providing compassionate, respectful care.

Lalo Listowel 2025.12.26

     

I second everything that Nasim, the last reviewer, wrote. It was a very positive and memorable day. I had the most contact with Tawanna in the office and Ella on the boat, but Angie and Liz were both very nice as well. The boat is nicer than I expected, by the way, comfortable for 6 or so people with a table inside and out. They had rose petals to mix with the ashes, which marked the spot for a few minutes. Then Liz slowly circled it. Small touches that make a difference. Highly recommended.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.12.27

Thank you so much, Lalo, for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review. We’re truly honored to have been part of such a meaningful day for you and your family.

We’re especially glad to hear that Tawanna, Ella, Angie, and Liz helped make the experience comforting and memorable. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with them. The small details you mentioned — from the rose petals to the gentle circling of the boat — are very intentional, and it means a great deal to know they made a difference during such an important moment.

Thank you again for trusting San Diego Burial at Sea with something so personal. We sincerely appreciate your recommendation and wish you peace and comfort as you remember your loved one.

Nasim Bagheri 2025.11.11

     

Superb service from start to finish. Far exceeded my expectations. The crew was so kind and thoughtful, so professional and just all around uber competent and caring. Thank you Ella and Liz (boat team). Thank you Angie and Tawanna (office team). A class act.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.11.21

Nasim, thank you so much for your beautiful words. We are truly honored that you entrusted us with such an important moment. Ella and Liz will be touched to hear how much their care meant to you on the water, and Angie and Tawanna will appreciate your kind acknowledgment of their support in the office.

Our entire team is committed to providing a gentle, seamless, and dignified experience from beginning to end, and it means a great deal to know we exceeded your expectations.

Please know we are always here for you and your family. 💙

Steve Von Ruden 2025.11.01

     

Our family experienced fantastic service from San Diego Burial at Sea. Despite a last minute request, the team overachieved in all areas. The crew was totally understanding and accomadating in all aspects during our 2 hour voyage. We will certainly book our 30 year annivesary trip with this professional team again in 2035. Thank you for such understanding and accomodating our family during what are always difficult times-yet so very important to us. Steve

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.11.03

Thank you, Steve, for your thoughtful and uplifting words. It was truly our honor to assist your family and help make this special voyage meaningful. We understand how important these moments are, and we’re so glad our crew could provide the care and flexibility you needed. Your kind words mean a great deal to our team. We’ll look forward to welcoming you back for your 30-year anniversary trip in 2035 — hopefully under brighter circumstances and with calm seas ahead.

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team ⚓️

Antel Powell 2025.10.29

     

We gave my wife the send off that she truly deserved and would absolutely have loved, and I couldn't have done it without the caring and attentiveness of Angie and her team, and the boat's crew. They were clearly experienced in handling as delicate a situation as an unexpected passing, and the process was easy and very smooth from start to finish. Due to the location where we wanted to scatter her ashes, the target date, and the expected attendee count, I had to use the larger boat which is essentially a former ferry boat (and not the catamarans, which are nicer). I was a little worried about what this boat might actually look like in reality, but I have to say that I was not disappointed. The boat was clean and in very good repair, and though it did not have the comforts of the catamarans, it was actually nicer than I had envisioned. The crew treated my wife's remains as well as the guests with the utmost respect, and the process of releasing the ashes was both simple and deeply personal. I truly have to thank Angie, the captain, and crew (whose names I unfortunately don't know) for their help in making the day as beautiful as my lovely wife deserved.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.11.03

Thank you, Antel, for your beautiful and thoughtful words — and for sharing photos from your wife’s farewell. It was truly an honor for Angie and our entire team to help create a meaningful send-off that reflected her spirit and the love of your family. We’re grateful for your trust and so glad the experience felt smooth, respectful, and personal. Wishing you comfort and peace as you cherish her memory.

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team ⚓️

Gaye Larsen 2025.10.29

     

These people are true angels. Angie was wonderful with making the arrangements and on the day of our boat trip, Liz, our captain and Amie, our crew mate were so kind and helpful. Everyone did their best to make a horrible day wonderful.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.11.03

Thank you, Gaye, for your kind and heartfelt words. We’re truly touched by your message. Angie, Captain Liz, and Amie will be so grateful to know their care and compassion brought some comfort on such a difficult day. It’s our honor to help families find a moment of peace and beauty during times of loss. Wishing you and your loved ones continued comfort and healing.

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team ⚓️

Cindy Hunt 2025.10.28

     

Wonderful experience. I highly recommend San Diego Burial at Sea. The catamaran was extremely spacious and comfortable. The staff, Tawanna, Angela, Amie and Liz, were outstanding and so very helpful. I especially appreciated the basket for the ashes and flower pedals, and the Memorial Certificate.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.10.28

Thank you, Cindy, for your kind words and recommendation. We’re so glad you and your family had a wonderful experience aboard the catamaran. Tawanna, Angela, Amie, and Liz will be touched to know they helped make the ceremony special and meaningful. We’re honored to have been part of this important day and appreciate your trust in San Diego Burial at Sea. 🌊💙

Bryan Sweeley 2025.10.27

     

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.10.28

Thank you so much for your 5-star rating. We truly appreciate your trust and support. Our team is honored to serve families with care and compassion during such meaningful moments.

Kimberly McGilvary 2025.10.15

     

I don't normally write reviews, but I have to write an outstanding, 5-star review for San Diego Burial at Sea! Our experience with them was excellent from my first phone conversation to the day of scattering my dad's ashes! Everyone was so kind and compassionate! Captain Liz and Host Ella ensured that an emotional day was made beautiful! The whole experience went above and beyond any of our expectations! My family and I highly recommend San Diego Burial at Sea!

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.10.15

Thank you, Kimberly, for your beautiful review and for trusting San Diego Burial at Sea with your father’s final farewell. We’re truly honored to have been part of such a meaningful moment for your family. Captain Liz and Host Ella will be so touched to hear your kind words — they take great pride in creating a peaceful and memorable experience for every family we serve. Wishing you and your loved ones continued comfort and serenity. 🌊💙

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team

Jason P 2025.10.10

     

I recently had the privilege of working with San Diego Burial at Sea for a deeply personal and meaningful experience, scattering the ashes of my Mom, Dad, and Grandmother. From start to finish, the service was nothing short of exceptional, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everything they did to make this process smooth, respectful, and memorable. We were paired with Captain Liz and host Amie, both of whom were outstanding. Amie, in particular, went above and beyond in providing support throughout the ceremony. She was incredibly helpful in answering all of our questions, offering guidance, and even assisting a family member who unfortunately got seasick during the trip. Her kindness and professionalism made a challenging situation much easier to handle. The entire team at San Diego Burial at Sea truly impressed us with their level of attention to detail and flexibility. We had to change the date of our event, and the company was extremely accommodating, making sure everything still went smoothly. They took care of every aspect of the ceremony, allowing us to focus on what mattered most, honoring our loved ones in a peaceful and beautiful setting. I can wholeheartedly recommend San Diego Burial at Sea for anyone looking for an ash scattering ceremony. The entire experience is one we will cherish for the rest of our lives. They have plenty of options to suit your budget. I would also highly recommend Captain Liz and host Amie for anyone interested in chartered tours of San Diego Bay. They made the experience so much more meaningful, and I’m confident they’d bring the same level of care and professionalism to any outing. Thank you again for an unforgettable experience!

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.10.11

Thank you so much for sharing such a heartfelt review. It was truly an honor to assist your family in scattering the ashes of your Mom, Dad, and Grandmother. We’re so glad Captain Liz and Amie were able to make the day meaningful, compassionate, and smooth for everyone — even through the unexpected moments on the water. Your kind words mean a great deal to our whole team. We take pride in providing the care, flexibility, and attention to detail that allow families to focus on honoring their loved ones. From all of us at San Diego Burial at Sea, thank you for trusting us with such an important farewell.

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team ⚓️

Alanna Mayer 2025.10.06

     

We had an outstanding experience working with San Diego Burial at Sea and could not have honored my dad in a more beautiful, memorable way. Tawanna, Captain Liz, and Mo were all genuinely warm and kind, and so accommodating, especially when it came to my toddler. We can't thank you enough!

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.11.03

Thank you so much, Alanna, for your kind words and trust. We’re truly honored to have helped your family celebrate your dad’s life in such a meaningful way. Tawanna, Captain Liz, and Mo will be touched to know their care and warmth made the experience memorable — especially in accommodating your little one. Wishing you and your family continued comfort and peace.

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team ⚓️

Sara Tack 2025.09.28

     

The boat captain Liz and the funeral attendant Jess were both very nice and helpful, it was a beautiful experience

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.09.28

Thank you so much for your kind words. We’re glad to hear that Captain Liz and Jess helped make the day meaningful for your family. It means a lot to us to be able to provide a caring and beautiful experience during such an important moment.

With our heartfelt condolences,

Tom Kelley (Nickname) 2025.09.25

     

Tawanna and Angie and ( Captain Jon Brown ) At San Diego burials at sea, truly made this experience a refreshing and healing one that we will always cherish and remember! When we had difficulty with our travel plans they were willing to work with us on our time frame and they even found us a more price appropriate arrangement that worked out perfectly for us! We cannot thank the staff more for their hard work and caring attitude that they had toward us! We will never forget them! I would also like to give a special shout out to Captain Jon Brown, If you are at all able to schedule your trip with Jon Brown as your captain you will not regret it! I cannot say enough great things about this wonderful loving man that just happens to be a Captain as well. If you can book him ( as your Captain ) into your trip you will not regret it! Again thank you, all of you! Most sincerely: Tommy J Kelley Jr and Family

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.11.03

Thank you, Tommy, for your incredibly kind and detailed review — and for sharing your wonderful photos. We’re so grateful you took the time to express your experience. Tawanna, Angie, and Captain Jon Brown will be deeply touched to know their care, flexibility, and compassion made a lasting impression. It was truly our honor to assist your family and help create a meaningful, healing farewell. Wishing you continued comfort and peace in the days ahead.

— The San Diego Burial at Sea Team ⚓️

Judy Pestcoe 2025.09.20

     

Our experience with San Diego Burial at Sea was exceptional. My family and I appreciate how they turned a very difficult day into an extremely memorable one. From the First phone call the experience was above and beyond what I had expected . I was given all the information I needed to help me choose what would work for my family. Angela sent me several emails that were very informative and answered all of my questions.. I was able to pick the right size boat we needed for the amount of people that would be attending. They took care of the permits and the photos and we’re just extremely helpful. I can’t say enough about how during a difficult time in my life. They somehow made that easier.. On the day of our celebration of life for my son, Joe we met captain, Liz, and our host Mo made that day a very memorable one for us . the boat was beautiful, clean and well equipped for our needs. Moe was very helpful with preparing Joe’s ashes and explaining how it would be done . She asked if there was someone in the family who would like to be in charge of lowering the urn and emptying the ashes she made sure to include all family members. When we reached the spot where we would scatter Joe’s ashes the Captain Liz made sure that we were in a spot where the light wind would scatter his ashes out to sea. We were given time for everyone to say something about their uncle.their brother, my son, and their friend.. I would truly recommend this for anyone who needs to have closure and would like to do so in a very calm and surreal atmosphere. I can’t thank everyone enough for everything they did to make it a very memorable experience for us.

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Reply from San Diego Burial at Sea 2025.09.21

Thank you so much for your heartfelt words. It means the world to our entire team to know we were able to bring comfort and ease to you and your family during such a difficult time.

Angela, Captain Liz, and Mo will be deeply touched to hear how much their care and attention helped make Joe’s celebration of life meaningful and memorable. We are honored you trusted us to guide you through every step — from planning and preparation to the moment of scattering — and we’re so grateful we could provide a peaceful setting for your family to honor your son’s life and legacy.

On behalf of all of us at San Diego Burial at Sea, please accept our deepest sympathy and gratitude for letting us be part of this special farewell.