Outrigger Canoe Burial at Sea in Waikiki - Ash Scattering with Photo Package

Embark on a meaningful journey with a private Waikiki burial at sea aboard a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe. Departing directly from Waikiki Beach in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, this ash scattering ceremony offers a peaceful and memorable farewell to your loved one. A licensed canoe captain will steer the canoe, and you will paddle out in the traditional Polynesian manner, connecting deeply with the spirit and serenity of the islands as you glide across stunning blue waters rich with aloha. Up to six guests can share in this sacred moment, with professional photos included to beautifully capture and preserve every memory of your time on the water. Book now to experience a burial at sea unlike any other with this unique Hawaiian memorial service.

---

Why do travelers choose this tour?

Guests appreciate the deeply moving farewell set against the gentle rhythm of the ocean, where every paddle stroke and ocean breeze is guided by timeless Hawaiian traditions. The experience offers a sacred sense of connection, allowing loved ones to say goodbye in a setting filled with meaning, beauty, and aloha.

This is a private journey across Waikiki's waters aboard a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe, reserved exclusively for up to six guests. This intimate experience invites quiet reflection, shared emotion, and a deep connection to the sea, offering a heartfelt way to honor a life and say farewell.

Professional photographs are thoughtfully included to capture this sacred moment. Each image serves as a timeless reflection of your journey, the gentle embraces, quiet tears, the shimmer of the sea, preserving the emotional beauty of the ceremony so it may be remembered and revisited for years to come.

Guided by the hands and hearts of experienced Waikiki Beachboys, the ceremony is steeped in cultural reverence and carried out with the true spirit of aloha. With generations of knowledge and deep respect for Hawaiian traditions, they lead each journey with care while honoring every life with authenticity and grace.

How does it work?

This private one-hour canoe charter begins with a land-based demonstration of traditional paddling techniques and instructions on seating and safety. Once prepared, guests paddle out with guidance from two experienced Waikiki Beachboys to a peaceful spot on the ocean for the ash scattering ceremony. There is time to reflect, release flowers, and honor the moment before returning to shore, often by catching a wave in the spirit of the Beachboy tradition. While the full experience lasts 60 minutes, guests may choose to return earlier if they wish. Professional photography is included to capture the ceremony, with images delivered within one to two days.

Expert local tips

• While flowers and lei are not included in the tour, Oahu offers an abundance of local lei stands and flower shops, many of which are just a short walk or drive from Waikiki. Purchasing a lei or loose flowers ahead of time can add a personal and meaningful touch to your ceremony.
• Loose flowers and lei petals may be placed in the water alongside the ashes as part of the tribute. For the safety of marine life, please remove any flowers from their string or binding before gently releasing them into the ocean.
• After the ash scattering, consider continuing your remembrance with a peaceful beachfront brunch or lunch. Waikiki is home to many oceanfront restaurants where you can gather with loved ones and reflect in a beautiful setting.
• Music is welcome on board, as long as any speakers or devices are waterproof or securely protected.
• Leave valuables behind, as there are no storage lockers available and anything you bring will need to go with you on the canoe. To ensure a stress-free experience, we recommend bringing only essential items that can get wet or be safely secured.
• Each canoe can accommodate up to 6 guests. For groups larger than 6, an additional canoe must be reserved.
• What to wear: Sea spray and gentle splashes are common while aboard the canoe, so guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing they don’t mind getting slightly wet. Sunglasses, hats, and other sun protection are also recommended.

How to get there?

The Waikiki Beach Services desk is located on the pool deck of The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, within easy walking distance of most Waikiki hotels and resorts. For guests planning to drive, paid parking is available at The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, approximately a 10-minute walk from the departure location.