WATERFORD BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Final Passage: A Quiet Burial at Sea off Eastern Long Island Sound
A Sunbeam Fleet ceremony three miles offshore from Waterford aboard U.S. Coast Guard–certified vessels — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan a personalized maritime farewell.
Final Passage: A Quiet Burial at Sea off Eastern Long Island Sound.
Off the coast of Waterford, Connecticut, Burial At Sea with the Sunbeam Fleet offers a solemn, customizable ceremony three miles off Eastern Long Island Sound. Conduct the service you choose aboard U.S. Coast Guard–certified vessels with indoor and outdoor seating and restrooms; music, flowers, and refreshments can be incorporated to create a memorable tribute.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Three miles offshore on Eastern Long Island Sound
The service takes place roughly three miles from shore in the open water of Eastern Long Island Sound, a quiet marine setting that frames the ceremony with the vast expanse of the sea.
Personalized farewells with music and flowers
Families may craft the ceremony — play requested music and scatter flowers or a wreath so long as materials are decomposable; refreshments and boxed lunches are available on request to accompany the service.
Vessels for private gatherings up to larger memorials
Sunbeam Fleet operates multiple certified vessels sized for different group sizes, from small private parties to gatherings up to about 80 passengers, with options to add time or remain for a short cruise after the service.
What the day feels like
How the trip feels
The outing moves at a deliberate, unfussy pace: embark from Waterford, transit to a spot about three miles offshore, conduct a personalized ceremony on the vessel, then either return to port or linger for a short post-service cruise. All vessels are U.S. Coast Guard certified and offer indoor and outdoor seating and restrooms; the operator can also provide food and beverages when requested.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring only decomposable flowers or wreaths if you plan to scatter them. Guests may not bring alcohol aboard due to liquor laws; the operator can supply beverages (water, soda and beer) and boxed lunches on request at shore‑side prices. Music may be played if requested.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the outing?
The operator lists a base duration of 2 hours with the option to add additional time; the operator also notes a three‑hour minimum on bookings.
How far offshore is the burial location?
The vessels sail to a site approximately three miles off the shores of Eastern Long Island Sound.
Can we scatter flowers or a wreath?
Yes — flowers or wreaths may be scattered provided they are made of decomposable material.
May guests bring alcohol or food aboard?
Guests may not bring alcohol aboard due to liquor laws. The operator can supply beverages (water, soda and beer) and boxed lunches on request.
What amenities do the boats provide?
All vessels are United States Coast Guard certified and offer indoor and outdoor seating and restrooms.
What happens in bad weather?
The captain reserves the right to modify or cancel any trip due to inclement weather.