Writing a eulogy for a sea burial is a unique opportunity to honor a loved one’s life while embracing the symbolism and serenity of the ocean. The elements of a eulogy for such a ceremony can be tailored to reflect the individual’s connection to the sea, their personality, and the shared memories of those gathered.
Below are specific elements to include, along with examples that can enhance your tribute.
How to Write a Sea Burial Eulogy
1. Personal Reflections and Stories
A eulogy can always include personal anecdotes that highlight the character and life of the deceased. If you are honoring a loved one with a sea burial, it’s highly probable that they had some deep connection to nature or the ocean. This presents an opportunity to find a personal story or reflection that fits the theme.
For a sea burial, consider stories or sentiments that connect their life to the ocean or water. Some of the best eulogies we’ve heard during sea burial ceremonies in Southern California have had elements like these:
- A ceremony to honor someone who spent much of their time around the ocean should include perspective on how the deceased is being laid to rest in the very place that inspired them.
- Sea burial eulogies to honor loved ones who were environmentalists or lovers of nature in general might offer lines on the connectedness of the planet. LInes might include details on the role of the ocean in the health of our planet and how the deceased is now a part of that ecosystem forever.
- For close friends or family members who are offering a eulogy, including personal stories that relate to the deceased and an experience around the sea is appropriate.
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
These types of reflections make the eulogy deeply personal and relatable for those present.
2. Symbolism of the Sea
The ocean is often seen as a metaphor for eternity, renewal, and peace. Incorporating this symbolism can provide comfort and meaning. Here are a couple of examples of how such a eulogy might sound:
- "As we commit [Name]’s ashes to these waters, we are reminded of the eternal cycle of life. Just as the waves return to the shore, so too does love remain with us, constant and unending."
- "The vastness of the ocean reflects [Name]’s boundless spirit—free, adventurous, and enduring."
Linking their memory to the infinite nature of water helps convey a sense of continuity.
3. Poems and Readings
Many beautiful words about the sea have already been written. Finding those and incorporating them into your eulogy is powerful.
Here are two examples to inspire you as you write your eulogy for the sea burial ceremony:
- Alfred Lord Tennyson’s “Crossing the Bar”: "For though from out our bourne of Time and Place / The flood may bear me far, / I hope to see my Pilot face to face / When I have crossed the bar."
- Celtic Blessing: "May the tides carry [Name] on a journey of peace and tranquility. May they find rest in these waters as eternal as their love for us."
Including such readings can add depth and universality to your eulogy.
4. Spiritual or Religious Elements
For those who wish to include spiritual themes, prayers or blessings can provide comfort. There are many relevant prayers and blessings that can be used to honor a loved one during a sea burial with religious or spiritual tones.
Here is one of our favorite such Christian prayers:
"We therefore commit the earthly remains of [Full Name] to the deep, looking for the general Resurrection in the last day, and the life of the world to come, through our Lord Jesus Christ; at whose second coming in glorious majesty to judge the world, the sea shall give up her dead; and the corruptible bodies of those who sleep in him shall be changed, and made like unto his glorious body; according to the mighty working whereby he is able to subdue all things unto himself. Amen."
These elements can be adapted based on individual beliefs.
5. Visual or Ceremonial Additions
Enhance your eulogy by describing symbolic actions that accompany it. Often as part of sea burial ceremonies, flowers or biodegradable wreaths are put into the water. These elements can become an important part of your eulogy. Here is an example of how you might do this:
"As we scatter rose petals into these waters, let them carry our love and memories into eternity."
These actions create a poignant visual tribute that is worth calling out in your eulogy.
Eulogies for Sea Burials in Conclusion
By weaving together personal stories, meaningful readings, and symbolic imagery of the sea, you can craft a heartfelt eulogy that honors your loved one while providing comfort to all who gather for this special farewell. As you write, keep in mind the setting of the memorial. The ocean is obviously a very important part of such ceremonies and they provide an opportunity for your eulogy to carry extra meaning.