A peaceful and meaningful farewell on the water
For many families, scattering a loved one’s ashes on water feels like the most natural and symbolic way to say goodbye. The gentle movement of a river, the open sky, and the ability to gather privately with close family and friends creates a calm and reflective moment to honour a life lived.
A number of specialist boat operators now offer private ashes scattering cruises along the River Thames. Often described as a Celebration of Life Cruise, these trips allow families to come together in a tranquil setting, play meaningful music, scatter petals, and take the time they need to say farewell without rush or interruption.
Whether you invite a small group or bring a larger party of up to 50 guests, including children or religious leaders, the focus is always on providing a peaceful environment in which to reflect, remember and celebrate your loved one.
What to Expect on an Ashes Scattering Cruise
A dedicated ashes scattering cruise provides:
A private and tranquil setting
Your skipper will take the boat to a quiet, suitable stretch of the river away from busy areas, fishing spots or swimming areas. Once safely positioned, the engines are slowed or turned off to create stillness.
Time to personalise the moment
Families often choose to include:
- Reflections, memories or prayers
- Gentle music
- Scattering of flower petals
- A moment of silence
- Words shared by a celebrant, religious leader, or family member
Some families choose a structured ceremony; others prefer something very informal. Both are equally meaningful.
Guidance during the scattering
To ensure the experience is safe and dignified:
- Stand upwind so the ashes drift away from the boat.
- Scatter ashes close to the surface of the water, letting the current take them naturally.
- Only use an approved biodegradable water urn if lowering an urn into the river (see our urn options page).
Guests often find comfort in taking turns to scatter petals or say a few personal words.
Legalities and Guidance for Scattering Ashes on the River Thames
Scattering ashes on the River Thames is perfectly legal in the UK. You do not need any form of licence, certificate or permission.
However, guidance is provided by the Environment Agency and supported by the Port of London Authority (PLA) to protect the river and ensure ceremonies remain safe for all.
Environment Agency Guidelines
- Ashes may be scattered directly onto the water.
- Only biodegradable items such as real flower petals may be added.
- Do not leave anything in the water, including urns (unless approved biodegradable water urns).
- Avoid scattering near water extraction points.
- Choose a quiet, safe location away from swimmers and busy piers.
- Avoid windy days so ashes do not travel through the air.
- Wreaths must be fully biodegradable with no metal or plastic components.
Port of London Authority (PLA) Guidance
- Ceremonies must not take place from bridges, as ashes may drift onto passing boats.
- No specific PLA permission is required.
- Permission may be needed from the riverbank landowner if scattering from the shore.
Scattering in Parks
Scattering ashes is not permitted in public parks, including riverside parks, because the mineral concentration in ashes can harm plants, trees and wildlife.
Recording the Location
Because no permanent marker can be left at the site, families often record the location of the scattering at ashesregister.com. This provides a private or public record that can be shared with family and friends.
Creating a Meaningful and Healing Moment
Planning an ashes scattering ceremony can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions are still raw. Give yourself patience and gentleness as you plan. What matters most is creating a moment that truly reflects your loved one.
Some families invite everyone to share a memory. Others play a favourite song or simply take in the stillness of the river. Many families say the experience becomes a treasured memory — a peaceful moment of release, gratitude and connection.
Boat Companies Offering Ashes Scattering Cruises on the River Thames
Below is a selection of reputable operators offering private ashes scattering cruises along various stretches of the Thames. They are familiar with the sensitivities involved and understand the care required for a farewell of this nature.
Central London
- Thames Party Boats – Private chartered boat for your group
Chiswick
- The London and Thames Boat Company – The Golden Salamander can accommodate up to 60 passengers between Chiswick and Central London
Kingston, Richmond & Hampton Court
- Colliers Launches – Small, family-run boats for intimate groups on the river between Richmond and Hampton Court.
- Turk Launches – Based in Kingston, offering private hire for families wanting a calm setting in the mid-Thames area.
Walton, Shepperton & Weybridge
- JGF Passenger Boats – Experienced with memorial charters; offering quiet, scenic routes in the upper tidal Thames.
Windsor, Bray & Runnymede
- French Brothers – Well-established operators offering private memorial trips in the Windsor, Eton and Runnymede area.
- Golding Bros – The vintage launch, Christobel, can accommodate up to 10 guests.
- The Boat Hire Company – Beautiful vintage motor boats for Windsor, Bray & Maidenhead (Bray Marina)
Henley-on-Thames
- Hobbs of Henley – A traditional family business offering peaceful charter cruises ideal for ashes scatterings.
Reading & Caversham
- Thames River Cruises – Suitable for larger groups, with tranquil riverside surroundings.
Thames Estuary
- Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips – Departing from Leigh-on-Sea / Southend Pier, they will find a tranquil spot on the Thames Estuary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to scatter ashes on the River Thames?
Yes. Scattering ashes on the river is completely legal, and no licence or special permission is required.
Do I need a biodegradable urn?
Only if you plan to place the urn itself into the water. Otherwise, scatter the ashes directly onto the river’s surface.
Can we scatter petals or flowers?
Yes — provided they are natural and fully biodegradable.
Can we bring children or a celebrant on board?
Yes. Most boats welcome children, celebrants and religious leaders as part of the private gathering.
Can we leave a marker at the location?
No. As the Thames is a public waterway, no temporary or permanent markers may be left. Instead, record the location at ashesregister.com
