Ash Scattering & Memorial Cruise in Hawaii

Honor a Life Well Lived on the Waters of O‘ahu

An ash scattering and memorial cruise with Ocean Adventures Hawaii is a private, small-group ceremony at sea aboard the Kona Star, held in the calm waters off Waikīkī and O‘ahu’s south shore. Families gather for a peaceful farewell — with time for personal words, music, and the scattering of ashes — guided by a licensed captain and a compassionate local crew, well offshore and in full accordance with federal requirements.

Honor the life of your loved one with a peaceful memorial cruise on the beautiful waters of Hawai‘i. At Ocean Adventures Hawaii, we provide private ash scattering ceremonies and celebration-of-life cruises that allow family and friends to remember a life well lived while surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of O‘ahu. Whether you prefer a quiet, intimate gathering or a larger family celebration, we’ll help create a respectful and meaningful experience aboard the Kona Star, tailored to your wishes.

A Meaningful Experience at Sea

The ocean has long been a place of peace, renewal, and remembrance. Many families find comfort in returning their loved one’s ashes to the sea, where the endless horizon offers a lasting sense of connection and serenity.

Our crew understands the importance of these moments and approaches every memorial with professionalism, compassion, and respect. From your first phone call until you return to shore, our goal is to provide a peaceful, supportive experience so you can focus on honoring your loved one.

What to Expect

Your private memorial cruise aboard the Kona Star includes:

• A private charter for your family and guests
• A licensed USCG captain and experienced crew
• A peaceful location offshore for the ceremony
• Time for personal words, prayers, music, or moments of silence
• The opportunity to scatter ashes at sea
• Fresh flower petals for each guest to toss with the ashes
• Time for reflection while taking in Hawai‘i’s beautiful coastline
• Complimentary bottled water and light refreshments

Every ceremony is unique, and we are honored to help you create a farewell that feels right for your family.

Ceremony Options

Private Family Memorial

An intimate gathering for immediate family and close friends, with quiet time on the water for a ceremony and remembrance.

Celebration of Life Cruise

Combine an ash scattering ceremony with a gentle cruise along the coast, giving family and friends time together to share memories and celebrate a remarkable life.

Custom Memorial Charter

Have a special request? We can often accommodate personalized ceremonies — favorite music, leis, flower arrangements, photography, printed “in memory of” keepsakes for guests, catering, or extended cruise time. Tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll help bring it together.

Thoughtful Additions

To help make the day feel personal, we can arrange optional additions for your cruise for an additional cost:

• Fresh flower arrangements, leis, or additional petals (natural and biodegradable, to protect Hawai‘i’s marine environment)
• Catering and refreshments for your guests
• An officiant or clergy member to lead the ceremony
• Photography to capture the day
• Printed “in memory of” keepsakes for guests
• Extended cruise time

Let us know what you’d like when you reach out, and we’ll tailor the experience and details to your family.

Aboard the Kona Star

Our beautifully appointed 45′ trawler yacht offers a calm, private space for your family — away from the crowds. With multiple seating areas, a spacious upper deck, and panoramic ocean views, the Kona Star provides a dignified, comfortable setting for a meaningful farewell on the water.

Departing From Ala Wai Harbor — In the Heart of Waikīkī

Our memorial cruises depart from Ala Wai Harbor, one of Honolulu’s most convenient marina locations. Situated between Waikīkī and Ala Moana, the harbor is easily accessible from nearby hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.

• Address: 1651 Ala Moana Blvd, Slip #64, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Driving: Parking lot at the harbor next to the boat — $1/hour. Allow extra time on weekends and holidays.
• Rideshare/taxi: Drop-off available at the harbor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is scattering ashes at sea allowed in Hawaii?

Yes. Scattering cremated remains at sea is permitted, and Ocean Adventures Hawaii conducts every ceremony aboard a registered, insured vessel with a licensed captain, well offshore and in full accordance with federal requirements. We handle the details so your family can focus on the moment.

Can we hold our own ceremony?

Absolutely. Families are welcome to read poems, share stories, offer prayers, play meaningful music, or simply enjoy a quiet moment together. The day is yours.

How many guests can attend?

Our standard memorial cruise is a private charter for up to 6 guests aboard the Kona Star. For larger groups, please call us and we’ll discuss the right option for your family.

Can we bring flowers?

Yes — as long as they are natural, biodegradable flowers or petals, which help protect Hawai‘i’s marine environment. Fresh petals for each guest are included, and we can also arrange additional flowers or leis for you.

What are some words to say when scattering ashes at sea?

There is no single right way. Many families read a favorite poem, share a memory, offer a prayer, or say a few simple words of farewell before scattering the ashes. Our crew gives you the time and quiet to say whatever feels meaningful. If you’d like guidance, we’re glad to help you plan.

How do we begin planning?

Call us or complete our contact form and we’ll help you plan a respectful, personalized memorial cruise. We’re here to answer any questions and guide you through every step.

Serving Families With Care

We know this may be one of the most important days for your family. It is a privilege to help families celebrate lives that have touched so many. If you have questions or would like to begin planning a memorial or celebration-of-life cruise, we’re here to help.