# ‘Free to roam the world’: Why some families choose to scatter their loved ones’ ashes at sea

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/free-to-roam-the-world-why-some-families-choose-to-scatter-their-loved-ones-ashes-at-sea/
- Published: 2026-11-05T22:00:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-05T22:26:58+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/ash-scattering-sea-inland-ferry-options-cost-6526686
- Topics: Government, Politics, World

## Key points

- Singapore will pilot a shared ferry service for scattering ashes at sea.
- 27 per cent in a study preferred sea scattering.
- Families cite nature, personal wishes and less upkeep for relatives.

## Summary

Some Singapore families choose to scatter loved ones’ ashes at sea for a sense of freedom, a return to nature, or to avoid leaving relatives with the responsibility of maintaining a columbarium niche. A government-led ferry pilot is due to offer a more accessible option, while funeral providers expect private boat arrangements to remain appealing.

The National Environment Agency’s two-year pilot is scheduled to begin in the second half of next year from Pasir Panjang Ferry Terminal, with multiple groups sharing each vessel. A 2023–24 study found 42 per cent of respondents preferred ash scattering: 27 per cent at sea and 15 per cent inland. Funeral providers said columbarium niches remain the most popular choice, though reported demand for sea scattering varies between their clients.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.