Burials At Sea

Our Mission With over 40 years of experience in the industry, we firmly believe that providing a personalized one-on-one service is the most meaningful way to assist individuals in honoring their loved ones.

Riptide Charters is a reputable charter vessel operating from Pillar Point Harbor, located just south of San Francisco, California. Our team takes pride in offering a unique service that allows you to respectfully and economically memorialize your loved ones through the scattering of ashes on the ocean. We understand the emotional challenges associated with this period and work closely with our clients to ensure their wishes are met.

Captain William Smith, the owner and operator of Riptide, leads our experienced crew. With over thirty-five years of expertise operating boats from local Bay Area harbors, Capt. Smitty possesses the skills and knowledge to provide you with a customized memorial service that caters to your needs. Additionally, our Captain can offer you a Certificate that commemorates the date and precise location (longitude & latitude) of the cremation dispersal for a nominal fee of $10.

Conveniently situated on H-Dock at Pillar Point Harbor, Riptide is easily accessible. If driving from the East, follow Highway 92 West to Half Moon Bay. Turn right at Highway 1 and travel North for approximately 5 miles until you reach Capistrano Road. Turn left at the light and take the next left into Pillar Point Harbor. If coming from the North, take Highway 1 South through Pacifica and past Devil's Slide. After the Half Moon Bay airstrip, turn right at the light on Capistrano Road and take the first left into Pillar Point Harbor. When arriving at the harbor, feel free to drive out onto Johnson's Pier to H-Dock for passenger drop-off. Parking is available at our nearby parking lot, free of charge for the entire day. Riptide is located on the left at the base of the ramp at H-Dock Berth 1.

Our Services Offering a tranquil resting place for your beloved ones, our service reserves the boat exclusively for your group during the one-hour ceremony. The scattering of ashes upon the ocean is our special service, rooted in our personal experiences with the loss of loved ones. We comprehend the challenges that arise during this difficult time, and as a result, we work closely with our clients to ensure their wishes are fulfilled.

Feel free to reach out to us with any concerns you may have. We hold all the necessary permits and licenses, including the State of California Cremated Remains Disposer License (Number 476), U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Certification (Number 501216), and U.S. Coast Guard U.S. Merchant Marine Officer (Captain William E. Smith - Number 843229). As proud members of Drug Testing Consultants, we maintain our standing as responsible and dependable professionals.

Rest assured, we are fully insured and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to safely accommodate up to 20 passengers.

Copyright © Riptide Charters. All rights reserved. For further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to assisting you in planning your next funeral service.