I was worried it wasn't going to go well since I've been holding the ashes for over a year but I am so relieved how easy and laid back the experience went. I wanted it to be meaningful. It was everything! read more

Professional. Highly qualified Boat Captain (Coast Guard Certified). Clean boat. Great experience in the water and with the ceremony. They explained how to release the ashes, and allowed us to have our family time on our own. read more

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A day to remember. After speaking with Captain Brian I was convinced this would be the service we would use to scatter my son's ashes. The day could not have been more perfect, exceeding my expectations in every way. The grace, kindness , and professionalism extended to us by the Captain and First Mate, Jim will always be remembered. My family and I would highly recommend Marin Memorial Services. We thank you for making our son's farewell a beautiful and memorable experience. read more

I cannot express my gratitude enough to Captain Brian and First Mate, Jim, for making this very difficult experience one that I can remember with joy and fond memories. Communication from the start was responsive and helpful to the day we set sail to scatter my father's ashes. Captain Brian was very flexible with some requests as well. The boat was beautiful and navigation flawless.. no one got sea sick! First Mate Jim ensured we had everything we needed and what we needed to do to scatter the ashes and was so kind to ring the bell for my father who was a veteran just like him. I felt the price was affordable and fair unlike some other places I called and had exorbitant rates. We had a very memorable day together as a family to honor my father's life and it could not have been more perfect. Thank you again Captain Brian and First Mate Jim! I highly recommend. read more

Marin Memorial Services - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

My family and I booked a sail with Marin Memorial Services to scatter my uncle's ashes. From calling to reserve with Todd, to the actual sail day with Capt Ron and Jim, the whole process was flawless. Capt Ron and Jim made sure my family and I were well taken care of and walked us through the scattering of the ashes. We were able to pinpoint where exactly we wanted to scatter my uncle's ashes and Capt Ron and Jim provided us with a card noting that latitude and longitude of the location for a nice memory and keepsake of my uncle. While Capt Ron drove the boat, Jim the deck hand conversed with us all and directed us on how to properly scatter the ashes on the bay water. Both Capt Ron and Jim were very knowledgeable regarding the safety rules when on the ship while also making sure we had a sweet memorial service for my uncle as a family. 10/10 recommend Marin Memorial Services! read more

Our family was extremely fortunate and blessed to have Marin Memorial Services provide our father's last wishes. The Captain and first mate tended to everything we needed to allow the family and friends to focus on celebrating and remembering our fathers. We appreciated the efforts and thoughtfulness that the company extended its services. We would recommend Marin Memorial Services for your celebration of life experience. The boat was quality and the value for the number of family and guest was exceptional. read more

I would not have been connected with Marin Memorial Services without Honor Cremations as they are the funeral service I worked with after the recent passing of my wife who offer a scattering at sea plan. I scheduled a weekday charter and hoped for calm waters and nice weather and credit my wife's spirit for helping out to make both happen on a special day to celebrate her life. Everything about the ceremony on the Blue Runner went smoothly as it naturally unfolded. Even with planning, I welcomed the guidance of First Mate Jim as he recommended we have the chaplain's eulogy first followed by the scattering of ashes and tossing flowers into the waters to mark the location of her ashes because of the tides. What helped to make the ceremony even more touching is when a family member blew a conch shell horn before and after I scattered her ashes to acknowledge the ocean/water spirits so that could welcome her. Additionally, Captain Ron allowed our 8-year nephew to quietly sit next to him at the helm during the trips to and from Kirby Cove. Both Captain Ron and First Mate Jim were respectful and offered their condolences to every family member. It was a memorable and touching ceremony that my family definitely appreciated. I would definitely recommend Marin Memorial Services for any family considering a scattering at sea service. read more

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We recently honored a close relative's wish to have her ashes scattered at sea by using this service. The Golden Gate Bridge setting for the scattering was meaningful and beautiful for the immediate family. The boat crew of Captain Ron and particularly Jim were patient and reassuring when an unexpected delay waiting for the ashes to arrive from the crematorium. We went on a rainy day and the interior had enough space for 8. read more

A beautiful and dignified farewell. There is something deeply healing about saying goodbye on the water. The ceremony was handled with such grace, and seeing our grandmother returned to the sea provided a sense of peace that I couldn't find anywhere else. Truly a moving tribute. read more

We booked Marin Memorial Services for an ash scattering and follow-on SF Bay tour. The crew were professional, respectful and friendly. They ensured we gave our loved one a wonderful sendoff and provided time to reflect on our loss and revel in the natural beauty of the area. I highly recommend Marin Memory Services for your loved one's final journey. read more

My experience could not have been more beautiful and meaningful. I was so glad I chose this way and this company to fulfill my wish to give my husband a resting place after nearly five years. The boat was comfortable and immaculate and we were blessed with perfect weather. But what really made this experience were the people. Captain Todd was so informative on my initial phone call, and Captain Ron and First Mate Jim (hope I got that right) could not have been more helpful, kind and supportive. I left feeling sad/wistful and yet exhilarated, which is something I've never felt after a funeral. read more

We scattered the ashes of a dear family friend with Capt Ron and Jim, his deck hand, this past weekend and had a wonderful experience. The entire outing was very smooth, the boat was clean and comfortable and Ron and Jim could not have been nicer or more accommodating. Jim even took some wonderful photos that I know we will cherish forever. The owner, Todd, was also very helpful and made the entire process very seamless. 10/10 experience. read more

We recently used Marin Memorial Services to disperse my grandma's ashes. I'm sure I was annoying Todd with my incessant phone calls, but he was so kind and accommodating that he didn't mind. He understood my personality, and that I can be an overthinker in these types of situations. Jim, the deckhand, was kind and served hot coffee for everyone that requested it. He ensured safety was a priority. Captain Brian was also kind and ensured we had a safe journey and adjusted the boat when the waters got a little rough underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Overall, I'm really happy with the services. I can't comment on pricing or value as this is the first time I've set something up like this and didn't "shop" around, but we were all happy with what we received for the price. Thank you, all of you, for helping us. read more

We recently scattered the ashes of our long-time friend and I could not have been more pleased with the outcome of the trip. We had a fairly large group of people with several of them having flown out from the east coast to be here. Everyone who attended the memorial agreed that it was a lovely and fitting way to say goodbye to our friend and family member. Both Captain Brian and his Deckhand Jim were supportive and accommodating the entire time without ever being intrusive. They gave us advice and options on the best way to scatter the ashes and flowers that we brought along; worked with us to provide the music that we wanted for the event and offered to take a picture of our group. The Blue Runner itself was as clean as a whistle. Before the trip ever happened, I had been talking with Todd at Marin Memorial. He was also very helpful and accommodating without ever being pushy. It was his attitude and patience that helped sell me on Marin Memorial. The cost for the trip was very reasonable and I very much appreciated the fact that finances were never mentioned until the trip was complete and everyone else had exited the boat. These are obviously people who understand why you are there and do whatever they can to make the event comfortable for all involved. I would not hesitate one moment to utilize the services of Marin Memorial again should the reason arise to do so. I have no qualms whatsoever in highly recommending Marin Memorial read more

Marin Memorial Services - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

I recently booked Marin Memorial Services to scatter my dads ashes. Of course anything surrounding loosing a loved one is stressful but Todd was very informative and understanding. The captain Brian made the trip smooth sailing, literally. My family was more than satisfied with the service and I would definitely recommend them to others. read more

Marin Memorial Services - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

Each detail of setting up services for my son Michael have been carefully considered and I was so very pleased with this last act of love spreading my son's ashes. Talking to Todd the owner & then Ron and Jim on the boat - everything was perfect. We found the perfect spot seeing both the Golden Gate & Bay bridge. What made it even more special were we saw harbor porpoise- mini looking dolphins, seagulls and pelicans. My son Michael absolutely loved fishing, hunting and being on the bay. I would highly recommend this company as as hard as this was they were absolutely the best. read more

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Marin Memorial was hands down the most kind and understanding company to work with. I called Todd a few times because this was just hard for me to plan, but I appreciate him being so helpful with me. We scattered my dad's ashes today and Captain Brian and Steph were so nice and patient with us. The boat was beautiful and perfect size for our intimate service. They explained what we'd would be doing, assisted us with my dad's ashes, and would check in I us from time to time. I'm so thankful for them making it as perfect as could be. Thank you all! read more

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Last Friday, October 17, 2025 twenty-one family and longtime friends scattered my husband John's ashes in McCovey Covey Cove with "Centerfield" playing in the background. Captain Ron and Mate Jim could not have provided us with a more perfect location as John was a diehard SF Giants fan since 1958! We grew up in the bay area, had our first date at Candlestick Park, got married and moved to southern California in 1968 and let me say.. it was tough being a Giants fan in Dodger town! I have to pay tribute to Captain Ron and Jim who blessed us with the best memorial tribute we could imagine by honoring John's wish to be in a place where he could watch his beloved SF Giants for eternity. Myself and my family would highly recommend the Blue Runner with Captain Ron and Mate Jim for an unforgettable tour of San Francisco Bay and under the Golden Gate bridge. read more

It was my first time scattering ashes and Marin Memorial Services did an excellent job guiding me through the experience. The boat was comfortable with a heated cabin. Restroom was very clean. Captain Ron and Jim were superstars. Highly recommend going with them. read more

Marin Memorial Services - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

I traveled alone to San Francisco from the Boston area to scatter my wife's ashes at the Golden Gate Bridge, which was something she had always wanted. I had lost her the previous December, and I did this on her birthday, Aug. 21 as I told her I would. My initial experience on the phone booking this charter with Captain Todd was great. We had a very pleasant conversation for some time that ranged beyond these arrangements and included life in general. The entire experience with Marin Memorial Services was, in a word, perfect. Upon meeting Captain Brian and deckhand Jim at the dock, I immediately felt at ease. Brian was very kind and down to earth in explaining everything to me. Jim, an old navy veteran, was equally kind and understanding. I wanted to show them both a few photos of my wife Janice so they would have some sense of her. Both men listened quietly and were very respectful. Honestly, from the get-go, I felt these two guys were people I could sit with and enjoy a few beers. That is a big litmus test for me. And so, we three men set out to honor this beautiful and remarkable woman. The departure time of 5:30pm was perfect and the trip out to the bridge was unforgettable. I had never seen it from this vantage point before and it is thrilling. When we had reached the location, the 360-degree immersion was a lot to take in. The incredible views of the bridge, the Marin Headlands, the ocean, the shipping, the wind, the spray. Jim innately understood just when to give me space alone and I had plenty of time to read a few items out loud which I had selected. When the moment was right, Jim assisted with the flower petals and Captain Brian cued the song I had requested as I scattered my wife's ashes into the water. It was just after this, that Jim made mention of my wife's name "Janice Marian". He then pointed to a large container ship passing under the bridge and churning past us at that moment. He pointed out the ship's name on the bow ... "Janet Marie". Jim said he'd been doing this for 30 years and still he was amazed by things he sees. I don't know for sure what to make of it now ... but in that moment it was powerful, and I am so glad Jim saw it and told me! The trip back to Sausalito was sublime. It was calmer as we were not going into the waves. Captain Brian kept my Sting Ten Summoners Tales CD playing, I cracked a beer and sat back and simply enjoyed the beauty all around me ... including a surfer on a hydrofoil. Brian and Jim together made this as perfect for me as it could have been. What a wonderful service to provide to people who are hurting. I highly recommend Marin Memorial Services for anyone seeking to honor their loved one in this way. I would recommend chartering just a tour anyway - it would be well worth it for yourself and up to 6 friends I believe. read more

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Great kind gentlemen. Todd and Brian. Thanks so much for a great experience. Sent Dad off read more

As great of an experience as it could have been. From calling and asking many questions of Todd while researching and then making the reservations, to the actual day of. They met us at the end of the dock and were patient while my mom's best friend and her husband walked down and got on the boat (with assistive devices). They explained everything thoroughly and ask you your preferences for the time you have for your service out on the water. They were very supportive and helpful but gave space when needed. I would definitely recommend for anyone needing this type of service. read more

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Todd was wondering and kind to work with. We had three family deaths in one year and Todd was so understanding and helpful. It was a beautiful experience for all of us and they saw to make it remarkable. Definitely worth it. read more

Marin Memorial Services was exactly what we needed in order to scatter our brother's ashes at sea. Todd explained everything thoroughly ahead of time, and Brian (the captain) and Jim (the deckhand) were empathetic and helpful. The boat was in great condition, and Brian steered it expertly through occasional boat traffic and mild swells. The ride out to the location and back was stunningly beautiful, and our brother would have appreciated the gorgeous scenery and being put to rest in a cove near the Golden Gate Bridge. We played some music from a phone on the boat's sound system, and when we arrived at the cove, the boat stopped in calm water so we could scatter his ashes and say a few words. We appreciated the privacy and serenity of the Blue Runner. read more

Everything was smooth and perfect. They assisted me in every aspect of spreading my dads ashes. Would definitely recommend this to everyone. read more

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We were very pleased with Marin Memorial Services. We had attended another scattering at sea with Neptune Society, and this boat service was far, far better. The owner and captain were both incredibly helpful and thoughtful, and the whole experience felt much more personal. It was a beautiful day under the Golden Gate Bridge and the perfect way to honor our loved one's life. read more

Thank you Capt. Brian, Jim, the deckhand, and Todd who took the reservation. You gave us the comfort of saying the last goodbye to our sister/aunt. Your compassionate and everything you did all to ease the difficult time for us. Maybe we'll try other services of yours that are with a little more joy. Absolutely top recommendation from us. Thank you again. read more

From planning all the way to the day of (yesterday)... Captain Todd and Captain Kim were wonderful... yesterday was a special day to take my mom to her final resting place under the Golden Gate Bridge. The Blue Runner accommodated our group of 23 people. They had water and coffee and we brought our own light snacks...the trip was about 1.5 hours. (We took the boat out at 6:30pm and got back a little after 8pm, as you will see from the pictures it was the perfect time to go) They were so patient and kind with us.. I would highly recommend them! thank you for making this solemn occasion a pleasant experience. read more

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Both Brian and Jim were exceptional in taking care of our needs during this very difficult time.

We arranged to scatter the ashes of my husband and his son on October 26th. The weather was magical - sunny, calm, and not much wind. Captain Ron and Mate Bob were waiting for us before the scheduled time, so we got underway a little early. The Blue Runner was immaculate - just as I remembered from the 2019 service to scatter my sister's ashes. Captain took us under the Golden Gate to a quiet place, Kirby's Cove, where we scattered rose petals and ashes and more rose petals. He made a big circle with the boat, and we were surrounded by the flowers and ashes...and got a visit from a sea lion and pelicans. Amazing value - no increase in price since that 2019 event. Mate Bob let us know where we were and when we should start the ceremony. It was a truly magical experience. read more

Marin Memorial Services - Final destination was Kirby's Cove, just beyond the Golden Gate Bridge - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

The Very Best, wonderful boat and Crew. A very Memorable scattering of my wife's ashes. The day was perfect, as well as the Blue Runner (boat) and "Court" and "Bob" the (crew)... A Beautiful send off! Thank You! Kate F. read more

I have to say, this was the most beautiful way , to put my mother to rest. The Blue Runner was clean , and just felt peaceful. The staff did a great job in directing us, when the time came to scatter my mother's ashes . I recommend that you have a lot of flower petals , as well as flower tops. I just cut the top of bouquets, I had received . They were able to connect the iPhone 12, so we could have our music, for the event. We were able to bring champagne, and plastic flutes. The staff was very sensitive and caring, through out the event. Thank you so much !!!! read more

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July 27, 2023. Thirteen of us took my wife's ashes and those of a predeceased daughter to spread at sea. The boat was squared away and impeccably clean. Captain Kim departed on time or a bit early. Deck Hand Jim is an old Navy guy; being as nearly all of us are/were military, we shared many a sea story. Captain Kim prudently did not pass through the Golden Gate. It would have been just too bumpy and uncomfortable. We spread both sets of ashes together. Jim explained just what we were to do and we did it in a military manner. We took about a million pictures; Jim knows how to use a LOT of cameras. MMS has a great web site (I guess you must know that, being on it); they are polite and answered a lot of questions. I would recommend them highly. You cannot do better. tc read more

Price is right, no fuss, comfortable boat, professional crew, accommodated party to scatter ashes at Kirby cove. The ashes were dispersed my family members taking turns until ceremony was over. Played CD of favorite music. Complimentary freshly brewed coffee was nice on cold windy early evening read more

My husband lost both of his parents in the last year and a half. We were very grateful for the kindness and compassion showed by Marin memorial services. They walked us through the process and made for a very memorable and meaningful burial at sea. I would highly recommend! read more

Marin Memorial Services - The boat took us under the Golden Gate Bridge into a quiet cove - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

I was uneasy at first with the non-emailing Cap'n Todd -- I was organizing this memorial for a large family from three states. However, Captain Todd said I could call as often as I wanted. No one feels great burying their Dad, but as soon as we saw the calm, comforting presence of deck hand Steph we knew we were in good hands. Fun Captain Brian shared a bit of his seagoing youth and the whole fam wants to return to learn how to fish with the men of the Blue Runner. Steph told us what to do when, Cap'n Todd sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge and for Dad, a lifelong San Francisco-Tiburon resident it was perfect. Steph helped us blare Frank Sinatra which was very Dad. I am very happy to be in touch with anyone who is considering a memorial with this well-run little company. Dolphins leaped, a pelican snagged lunch, seagulls circled, the sun sparkled on the Bay, it was perfect. And perfect because of Todd, Brian and Steph. read more

Marin Memorial Services - Remembering Pa! - Boat Charters Near Me - Sausalito, California

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It's rare that I find a business that shows how much they truly care and after being involved in an experience with Marin Memorial Services. My beautiful grandmother passed away a few months ago and we wanted to do a tradition Sikh service for her. Due to Covid, going to India was not a possibility and my family made a decision to scatter her ashes at sea. We came aboard Marin Memorial services and were treated with graciousness and such consideration. I truly appreciate the service and kindness bestowed upon their team to my family during a very difficult time. They managed to make one of the most difficult experiences, one of the most thoughtful memorials we could have ever hoped for. Thank you for your service! read more

Made reservation with Captain Todd over the phone, he was very nice and professional. He explained all the details and answer all of my questions. We had reservation to scatter my mom ashes on her birthday May 5 but unexpected we have another death in the family. I called and spoke with Captain Todd and told him my situation we want to change the date to May 12 (totally forgot Mother's Day) the weekend were back in town from the funeral. He was very understanding and was able to put us in but he won't be there his brother Captain Kim will. When we arrive it was hard locating the Blue Runner boat, my husband called Captain Kim he direct us straight to his boat. Captain Kim and his guy I think his name was Bob they were very nice and professional. The captain did a wonderful job navigating the boat. Bob help and guide us through the whole process. They did a wonderful job! I would definitely recommend to friends, family and others. I just wanted to say Thank You To Captain Todd, Captain Kim and his crew for making this Mother's Day very special for us. read more

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We chose this service to say our final goodbyes to our grandpa. It was an amazing experience despite the heavy rain and gloomy weather. We were worried about the weather forecast but Todd assured us that the plan was still on rain or shine. They were ready for us right away when we arrived, didn't waste any time waiting. We had the opportunity to choose where we wanted to sail-- and we chose the golden gate bridge. They took us right under and we were able to have an amazing view of the bridge. Our captain and helper were both named Jim, and they were very nice and respectful of our traditional send-off. Jim helped with the preparation of the scattering as well. I can't recommend this service enough! read more

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WE had the ceremony around 11 am and it was for a 2 hour ride. The view was great since it was such a beautiful day to begin with and we couldn't have asked for anything better. The service that was provided is absolutely wonderful and we know that our beloved Jim enjoyed that last moment with us with beautiful City by the Bay every day as much as we enjoyed it with him for the last time. It was an amazing experience and so peaceful. It was an intimate ash scattering memorial at sea with safety and comfort. Thanks to our Captain and his first mate. I'm so sorry but I forgot the names as I am not so good with remembering names lol! The name of their boat was the "Blue Runner". I wish to thank them for their assistance with the scattering of the cremated remains of Jim. We felt that they were very accommodating and compassionate and created a beautiful memorable experience . For everyone's information, they offer all kinds of parties for different events and occasions like Cocktail cruises, Private parties and events, Sportsfising and many more. I would not hesitate recommending their company. read more

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