SANTA BARBARA SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Final Passage: A Private Ash-Scattering Aboard a Morgan Ketch off Santa Barbara
A 1 hour 30 minute private memorial service for up to 16 guests aboard a Morgan ketch in Santa Barbara — this guide explains timing, what to expect, and practical steps to plan the ceremony.
Final Passage: A Private Ash-Scattering Aboard a Morgan Ketch off Santa Barbara.
Held aboard a graceful Morgan ketch with the Santa Barbara Harbor and California coastline as a backdrop and the mountains looming on the Pacific, this private Burial at Sea service is tailored to families who want a composed, maritime farewell.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Morgan ketch with the Santa Barbara coast
The ceremony takes place on a Morgan ketch yacht with views of Santa Barbara Harbor, the California coastline and the nearby mountains — a quiet maritime setting for a private memorial.
Custom or traditional ash-scattering and full-body options
Sunset Kidd will help plan a custom or traditional ceremony, work with requested clergy, and can accommodate either ash scattering or a full-body burial according to your wishes.
Morning departures to avoid wind
After decades of service, the operator recommends a 9:00 AM departure because winds and seas are typically calm, and they do not offer ash scatterings in the afternoon to avoid ash being blown about.
What the day feels like
What the service feels like
The outing typically leaves the Santa Barbara Harbor in the calm morning, approaches sea cliffs (with Shoreline Park to the north as a reference), and the captain slows and stops the yacht so guests can gather at the stern for remarks, music, and the scattering or burial. The engine is stopped for the service; after a moment of silence and the scattering, sails are unfurled for a quiet sail back to the harbor, where friends and family often use the return passage as a wake.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this memorial service is suited for — and the basic limits to plan around.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring any food trays you’d like (suggestions include croissants, donuts, cake) and, if desired, a favorite beverage — the yacht carries a fully stocked bar but it operates as a cash bar.
A fully stocked bar is available aboard the Sunset Kidd; guests commonly arrange a toast or order specific drinks for the service.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does the service last?
The Burial at Sea service is scheduled for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
What is the maximum number of guests?
The charter is private and can accommodate up to 16 passengers.
Is there a minimum age for passengers?
Yes — passengers must be at least 4 years old.
When should we schedule an ash scattering?
The operator recommends a 9:00 AM departure when winds and seas are typically calm; scatterings are not offered in the afternoon to avoid wind-related issues.
Can clergy or a specific officiant be part of the ceremony?
Yes — the operator will work with you to plan a custom or traditional ceremony and can include clergy if requested.
Who operates the service?
The Burial at Sea service is provided by Sunset Kidd.
Can we bring food and have a toast onboard?
Yes — guests commonly bring food trays and order drinks for a toast; the yacht has a fully stocked cash bar onboard.